2026 A Portrait of India With Carol Alegre

Departure from your home city for an overnight flight to Delhi, India. 

Meals : In-flight

Arrive Delhi. On arrival, those arriving on our group air will be greeted and assisted by our representative and transferred to the hotel. 

Delhi has been the seat of power of several empires for about a millennium. It has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, and interestingly, a number of its destroyers have also been its rulers. Delhi today is a potpourri of two distinct cultural lineages—Old Delhi and New Delhi. Juxtaposed against the immaculately planned New Delhi created by the British Raj, Old Delhi, which was once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinthine network of lanes and by lanes with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques.

Meals : In-flight

Full day to explore the highlights of Delhi. In the morning, we will visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. It is a black marble platform, which marks the spot of Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation, held on 31 January 1948, a day after his assassination. It is left open to the sky while an eternal flame burns perpetually at one end. It is located on the banks of River Yamuna. A stone footpath flanked by lawns, leads to the walled enclosure, which houses the memorial.

Later enjoy a photo stop at the Red Fort (From outside) – It is the fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s elegant citadel in red sandstone, built on the western bank of the River Yamuna. Shah Jahan started the construction of this massive fort in 1638, when he decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. The Red sandstone walls of the massive Red Fort rise 33 metre above the clamour of Old Delhi, as a reminder of the magnificent power and pomp of the Mughals.

Followed by a Rickshaw Ride in Old Delhi – Enjoy the Rickshaw Ride (Paddy cab) in old Delhi. We will ride on a rickshaw through the narrow streets of Old Delhi. The humble cycle rickshaw is not only the common man’s beast of burden but also generates a considerable amount of employment. In an age, where our cities are beset by the pollution menace of automobiles, cycle-rickshaw is the best alternative and the only viable option for a short-haul.

We will have some free time for lunch.

In the afternoon we will have a photo stop at the India Gate — At the center of New Delhi, stands a 42-metre high – India Gate, an “Arc-de-Triumph” like archway, in the middle of a crossroad. Almost similar to its French counterpart, it commemorates 70,000 Indian soldiers, who lost their lives fighting for the British Army, during the World War I. The memorial bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers, killed in the North-western Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919. Under the arch, the Amar Jawan Jyoti commemorating Indian armed forces’ losses in the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971.

We will Drive past the Govt. Buildings. New Delhi houses several government buildings and official residences, reminiscent of the British colonial architecture. Today we will drive past a few of them, like The Parliament House (designed by Baker and 173m in diameter), the Rashtrapati Bhawan (once the Viceroy’s residence), now an official residence of the President of India, etc. Designed by Lutyens, it combines western and eastern styles of architecture.

Humayun’s Tomb is one of the most innovative and experimental monuments of its time, incorporating within it, an Indo-Islamic architectural style. This magnificent garden tomb is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India. It was built in 1565 AD, nine years after the death of Humayun, by his senior widow Bega Begam. Inside the walled enclosure, the most notable features are, the garden squares (Charbagh) with pathways and water channels, centrally located well proportional mausoleum topped by double dome.

Dinner & Overnight in Delhi.

After a leisurely breakfast drive to Agra. Located in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of River Yamuna, Agra is a slow paced, quiet town. Also known as the city of the Taj Mahal—one of the seven Wonders of the World—Agra’s significance as the political centre of the Mughal Empire ended when ShahJahan transferred his capital to Delhi. However, Agra’s architectural legacy has found it a place in the pages of history. The architectural splendour of the fort, mausoleums and the palaces here are a reminder of the opulence and artistic taste of the Mughal Empire. Agra is also famous for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen, who are descendants of those who worked under the Mughals.

On arrival in Agra, transfer to the hotel and get settled into your rooms. 

In the late afternoon, drive to the side of the river to visit Mehtab Bagh, where you can witness the Taj Mahal from a unique vantage point across the river – Mehtab Bagh is located on the left bank of river Yamuna opposite to the Taj Mahal. The garden complex is a huge square measuring approximately 300m X 300m and in straight alignment with the Taj Mahal. The excavation has revealed a huge octagonal tank on the southern periphery: baradaris or pavilion on the east and west: a small octagonal tank at the centre and a gateway at the northern wall. The garden provides excellent views of the Taj Mahal. Dinner & overnight in Agra.

Morning visit of the Taj Mahal – Muted but Soulful, Taj Mahal popularly known as Crown of Palaces is a white marble mausoleum and a UNESCO world heritage site.  As a testament to his love, the magnificent structure was built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in the loving memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Situated in the Mughal city of Agra, Taj Mahal looks exactly the same from all the four sides and endorsed as “The Jewel of Muslim art in India”. Commissioned in 1632, it took approximately 22 years in the making of this marvellous structure and an estimated 20,000 workers to build this masterpiece that reflects different colours under the canopy of sun. Purely ecstatic and iconic, it attracts (7 to 8) million annual visitors every year. (It remains closed on Fridays). Note: Taj Mahal is a World Heritage Site and hence requires some maintenance and restoration work routinely. 

Later visit the Agra Fort – A UNESCO World Heritage site, Agra Fort was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty till 1638, before the capital was shifted to Delhi from Agra. The forbidding exteriors of this fort hide an inner paradise as it comprises of a number of exquisite buildings like Moti Masjid – a white marble mosque akin to a perfect pearl; Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-I-Khaas – the audience halls, Musamman Burj – where Shahjahan died in 1666 A.D., Jahangir’s Palace; Khas Mahal and Sheesh Mahal. The massive Agra fort is considered as the predecessor of the red fort in Delhi.

In the late afternoon visit a Marble factory (Inlay factory) – The art of marble inlay or “Parchin Kari” was introduced to India in the 17th century by the Mughals. The Mughals had a great passion for art and architecture. They brought many different forms of art during their rule, which is considered the golden period in India’s architectural history. “Parchin Kari” was a lesser-known art in ancient times. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan envisaged the “Taj Mahal” and made this art famous worldwide. Its most sumptuous expression is found in the Taj Mahal. Also, you will see some inlay work at the marble factory. Dinner & Overnight in Agra.

After breakfast, drive towards Ranthambore. On the way, stop at a countryside hotel in Kalakho for a lunch break and the following activities: Visit a local village with a ride on a Juggad, a makeshift vehicle affectionately known as “The Village Mercedes.” This popular mode of transport is used by locals to carry villagers, fodder, cattle, and goods. Ride the Juggad through vast grazing pastures and agricultural fields to reach a nearby village. Along the way, you’ll encounter local residents and observe farmers at work, providing perfect photo opportunities.

Later, continue your drive to Ranthambore, one of the largest and most popular national parks in North India, Ranthambore National Park is named after the historic Ranthambore fortress that is located within the park’s premises. With the Banas River to its north and Chambal River to its south, Ranthambore lies at the edge of a plateau and covers an area of 392 square kilometers. A visit to Ranthambore National Park can be a rewarding experience for a wildlife enthusiast. Home to several fascinating wildlife species, one can spot leopards, striped hyenas, chitals, chinkaras, sambars, langurs, civets, and sloth bears in the park. The park’s pride, however, lies in the number of tigers that can be found prowling in their natural habitat.

On arrival in Ranthambore, transfer to hotel. Dinner & Overnight at the hotel.

In the morning, enjoy a Canter Safari inside Ranthambore National Park. This game ride is a rewarding experience for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Surrounded by the Aravali hills, the park is home to a variety of fascinating wildlife species. You may spot leopards, striped hyenas, chitals, chinkaras, sambars, langurs, civets, and sloth bears. The park’s pride, however, lies in the number of tigers that can be found prowling in their natural habitat.

Later, return to the hotel for a late breakfast.

After breakfast, spend the morning at leisure at the resort. After lunch, embark on another Canter Safari in the national park. Dinner and overnight stay at the resort.

After a leisurely breakfast, drive to Jaipur.

Capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan, Jaipur is also known as the “Pink City” due the color of its buildings. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727 CE, the city’s plan followed a grid system, making it the only planned city of its time. Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya, a young Bengali architect, designed it as per the texts of the Shilp Shastra, an ancient Indian treatise on architecture. With its innumerable sagas of traditions, culture and practices, Jaipur is a sensory treat for tourists from all over the world.

Evening Aarti ceremony at Birla Temple popularly also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, it is a Hindu temple in Jaipur city. Located on an elevated ground at the base of Moti Dungari hill, this temple was built by “Birlas”(industrialists who have also built several temples in India) and the presiding deities are Lord Vishnu (One of the Hindu Trinity Gods) and his consort Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of wealth and good fortune). Made up of white marble, this modern temple dominates the skyline of south Jaipur.

Later Participate in a session where you’ll learn the art of wearing traditional Indian attire. Men will be guided on how to tie a turban, while women will learn to drape a sari. This hands-on experience will provide insights into the cultural significance of these garments. Dinner & Overnight at the hotel.

Begin with a Photo stop at the Hawa Mahal Palace. It is the most well-known landmark of Jaipur city, built by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. This five-storied building overlooking the busy street is a fascinating example of Rajput architecture and artistry with its delicately honeycombed 953 pink sandstone windows known as ‘jharokhas’. It was originally built for the ladies of the royal household to watch everyday life and processions in the city from their veiled comfort as they had to obey the rules of “purdah. 

Later a short excursion to Amber Fort – Set high on a picturesque and rugged hill, it is a principal attraction in Jaipur. A noteworthy fusion of Hindu and Mughal architecture, constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh, the fort was declared as UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013. The Fort depicts scintillating aura exquisitely made up of red sandstone and white marbles. The interior walls of the palace portray expressive paintings with carvings, precious stones, and mirror settings. Built mainly for the warring enemies as a safe place, the heavily structured walls defended residents, within the ramparts of the fort.Inside the fort, Sheesh Mahal is a famous hall of mirrors, constructed by Raja Jai Singh in 1623. An integral part of the Jai Mandir, it has been uniquely constructed by decorating the ceilings and walls with mirrors specially imported from Belgium and carved with beautiful designs that reflect even a small ray of light to provide natural light to the entire hall. 

Afternoon vitis of the City Palace – Located in the heart of the Pink city and a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, it was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II as part of his ambitious city project. His successors continued to ornament and add to the elegant buildings up until the 20th century. It is a unique complex of several courtyards, buildings, pavilions, gardens, and temples. The most prominent and most visited structures in the complex are the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple, and the City Palace Museum. Evening at leisure. Dinner & Overnight in Jaipur.

After a leisurely breakfast, check out and transfer to Airport to board Flight for Mumbai (flight included), the capital of the Indian state of Maharashtra. Mumbai or Bombay is a vibrant and pulsating cosmopolitan that represents the face of modern India. A cluster of seven islands that was presented to King Charles II as dowry in 1661, Mumbai today has become the economic capital of the country with thriving markets and business houses. The coexistence of several different communities here reflects the multi-ethnic identity of this city that never sleeps. Although Mumbai mirrors changes brought about by liberalization and modernization, at its core it remains a city steeped in its culture and tradition.

On arrival in Mumbai, transfer to the hotel enroute Photo Stop at Dhobi Ghat – See the unique Dhobi Ghats, where traditional laundrymen, or “dhobis,” wash, iron, and return clothes to local residents. The most famous Dhobi Ghat is at “Saat Rasta” near Mahalaxmi Station, where nearly two hundred dhobis and their families work together. Dinner & Overnight in Delhi.

After breakfast we will drive to the jetty and board a boat for a half-day trip to the Elephanta Caves, located 9 km by sea from the Gateway of India. These UNESCO World Heritage Site caves are renowned for their rock-cut temples, carved out of two hills on the island. The island was named by the Portuguese after they discovered a stone elephant there. At the Elephanta Caves, you can explore the sixth-century cave shrine of Lord Shiva and see the impressive three-headed sculpture representing Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. Note: There are 120 steps to climb to reach the caves, and they are closed on Mondays.

Return to the mainland and enjoy a photo stop at the Gateway of India. This 26-meter triumphal arch, Mumbai’s most famous landmark, was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. Interestingly, it also marked the departure of the last British troops from India in 1947, symbolizing the end of British rule.

Drive through the Kala Ghoda Art District – Which covers roughly 2 sq. km and is home to many of Mumbai’s heritage buildings. Named after a statue of King Edward VIII on a black horse (Kala Ghoda in Hindi), this cultural hub features quaint restaurants, museums, educational institutions, cultural organizations, theatres, and art galleries. Visit Mani Bhawan – It is a memorial dedicated to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. He used to stay here at house No. 19 called Man Bhavan from time to time, between 1917 and 1934. In 1932, Gandhi Ji was arrested here for one of his many prison terms. The building now contains a pictorial gallery, a 20,000 volume research library, a film and recording archive, and a set of the diorama on the Mahatma’s life.

Hanging Garden – Perched at the top of Malabar Hill, on its western side, Hanging Gardens are located just opposite the Kamala Nehru Park. These terraced gardens, also known as Ferozeshah Mehta Gardens, provide lovely sunset views over the Arabian Sea. This park was laid out in the early 1880s over Bombay’s main reservoir. Some locals say that it was built to cover the water from the potentially contaminating activity of the nearby “Towers of Silence”.

Enjoy a scenic drive along Marine Drive, which runs along the Arabian Sea from Nariman Point to the foot of Malabar Hills. Known as the Queen’s Necklace due to its streetlights’ dramatic curve at night, it is one of Mumbai’s most romantic spots. After visit drive back to hotel. 

After checking out enjoy dinner at the hotel and evening transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Early morning departure from Mumbai to your home cities.