Quick Menu
Overview
From your first few moments in New Delhi you will feel an air of excitement as you begin to experience the magically enchanting India. As you breathe in the pleasant sweet smoky fragrance of the air and as the vibrant colours of this incredible land dance in front of your eyes, you will feel a stirring in your heart and a revitalization of your spirit that will take your breath away. As the sounds of the bustling city tickles your ears you are intrigued by the peacefulness amidst this sometimes chaotic land as your curiosity will peak every moment of this magical tour. From the tranquility of the Taj Mahal, to the exhilarating bicycle rickshaw adventure through the streets of Old Delhi, to the warm-hearted smiles and kind gestures of the people of India, this land will amaze, inspire, and educate you at every turn.
Explore India and feel the magic that will change your life.
Tour Highlights
- There is magic in the air as you enjoy authentic cultural experiences of India throughout the entire tour.
- Take an exhilarating bicycle rickshaw ride through the historic back lanes of Old Delhi and visit the vibrant shopping area of Chandi Chowk.
- Step back in time and into the last footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi as you walk through his home for the last 144 days of his fascinating life.
- Witness the breathtaking transformation of the Taj Mahal as the sun rises over the majestic Mughal structure taking it from the splendour of the night to its magical presence at daybreak.
- Experience the majestic Amber Fort Palace in Jaipur built in 1592.
- Spot the elusive tigers of Rathambore National Park with the help of a Naturalist/Guide.
- In Agra you will feel the passion of Shah Jahan & Mumtaz in the adaptation of their love saga in the musical play entitled Shah Jahan O-Mumtaz. (Optional)
- Breathe in the delightful aromas as you take part in a traditional cooking class with members of the Royal Rajput community. Optional
Itinerary
-
Day 1:
Depart Canada
Depart Canada for India. Your international flights includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment.
-
Day 2:
Arrival in India -New Delhi
Welcome to Incredible India. On arrival at Indira Gandhi international airport you will be greeted by our Explore India representative who will transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy the hotel.
Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel DelhiThe Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
1 CBD Maharaj Surajmal Road Near Yamuna Sports Complex, Vishwas Nagar Extension, Delhi, 110032, Indiahttps://www.theleela.com/en_us/hotels-in-delhi/the-leela-ambience-convention-hotel-delhi/+91 11 7172 1234The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel features 480 luxurious guest rooms and suites which are elegant, well-appointed and equipped with the latest in technology. The hotel also offers 70,000 sq. ft. of multi-purpose meeting and banqueting space, including a pillar-less ballroom of 24,497 sq. ft. with pre-function areas in excess of 25,000 sq. ft. making it one of the largest luxury convention hotels in India.
-
-
Day 3:
Delhi
After breakfast we will take a tour through Delhi as we venture toward our first stop, the 17th century Old Delhi. We begin exploring Old Delhi by visiting the Jama Mosque, a royal mosque built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in 1656. We then ride a bicycle rickshaw through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, the spine of Old Delhi that houses the spice market and jewelers’ lane. After that, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site the Red Fort.
Next, we will visit Humayun’s tomb. Emperor Humayun was the second Mughal Emperor of India. The tomb was built by his widow, Biga Begum (Hajji Begum), in 1569-70, 14 years after his death, at a cost of 1.5 million rupees. The tomb was later used for the burial of various members of the ruling family and contains some 150 graves. It has aptly been described as the ‘necropolis of the Mughal dynasty’.
After lunch we visit the house of Mahatma Gandhi, a place where Mr. Gandhi’s epic life ended on January 30th, 1948. Mahatma Gandhi lived in this house from September 9th, 1947 until his death and the house is home to many treasures and memorial items from the last 144 days of his life. The House was acquired by the Government of India in 1971 and was converted into a National Memorial of Gandhi, “Father of the Nation” and was opened to the public on August 15, 1973. As you walk through Gandhi’s home it’s as though you feel the majesty of his presence still there, a truly fascinating and memorable step back in time that will leave you with a quiet stillness but lifted spirit. The building and the landscape have been preserved to the lush beauty that filled the eyes of the beloved teacher and you will be impressed as you stroll the grounds. Before heading to our hotel, we will see the war memorial India Gate as well as the impressive grounds of the presidential palace.
In the evening enjoy your welcome dinner in your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel DelhiThe Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi
1 CBD Maharaj Surajmal Road Near Yamuna Sports Complex, Vishwas Nagar Extension, Delhi, 110032, Indiahttps://www.theleela.com/en_us/hotels-in-delhi/the-leela-ambience-convention-hotel-delhi/+91 11 7172 1234The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel features 480 luxurious guest rooms and suites which are elegant, well-appointed and equipped with the latest in technology. The hotel also offers 70,000 sq. ft. of multi-purpose meeting and banqueting space, including a pillar-less ballroom of 24,497 sq. ft. with pre-function areas in excess of 25,000 sq. ft. making it one of the largest luxury convention hotels in India.
-
-
Day 4:
Delhi – Agra
After breakfast we will drive for about 4 hours to Agra, a city which is famous for being home to the Taj Mahal. Arrive and check in at your hotel.
In the late afternoon, witness the blue and white backdrop of the Taj Mahal transform as the sun slowly casts a honey-hued canvas onto the iconic monument of love as it seemingly caramelizes into dusk. Built between 1631 and 1648, the Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim architecture in India and is universally one of the most admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage. This most famous monument of love was built by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Optional: In the early evening you have the opportunity to enjoy the The Love Story of The Taj Mahal, Live Play/Musical Performance: This musical depicts the saga of love between Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. Feel the sorrow of Shah Jahan as he holds his beloved wife Mumtaz as she takes her last breathe, thus, crippling his heart forever but is the impetus for Shah Jahan to build the magnificent Taj Mahal. The lavish lifestyle of the Mughal era in the 16th century and the hardships of the artisans who worked for 22 years to create the breathtaking monument are portrayed in this whimsical drama of love, sorrow, and devotion.
Optional CAD $50.00 per personMeals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Trident Agra Hotel, AgraTrident Agra Hotel, Agra
Fatehabad Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-agra+91 562 223 5000Near the Taj Mahal, Trident, Agra is one of the best hotels in the city. Beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains welcome you to this charming leisure hotel. Built in local red stone, reminiscent of the Mughal era, the hotel features 135 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, which overlook the central courtyard and gardens. Guests can also enjoy complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices.
-
-
Day 5:
Agra
We start our day early so you may experience sunrise at the Taj Mahal which is as equally stunning as the sunset. Witness the breathtaking transformation of the Taj Mahal as the sun rises over the majestic Mughal jewel taking it from the splendour of the night to its magical presence at daybreak.
After breakfast, we will continue our visit with a tour of the city of Agra and then visit the Agra Fort, a UNESCO world heritage site also known as the Red Fort. Built by Emperor Akbar in 1565 and additions were made up until the time of his grandson, Shah Jahan. It contains the hall of public and private audiences amongst many other beautiful structures.After lunch we will visit an amazing marble factory to experience the creation of fine inlaid stonework using the best of translucent marble native to the region. The craftsmen of Agra are renowned for the exquisite marble-inlay work that has made Agra’s monuments famous. Dinner at the hotel.
Hotel: Radisson Blu
Meals: BreakfastMeals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Trident Agra Hotel, AgraTrident Agra Hotel, Agra
Fatehabad Road, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-agra+91 562 223 5000Near the Taj Mahal, Trident, Agra is one of the best hotels in the city. Beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains welcome you to this charming leisure hotel. Built in local red stone, reminiscent of the Mughal era, the hotel features 135 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, which overlook the central courtyard and gardens. Guests can also enjoy complimentary high speed Internet for up to four devices.
-
-
Day 6:
Agra – Ranthambore National Park
After breakfast we embark on a 6 hour drive to Ranthambore National Park. On the way we will visit the abandoned Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri. Built by Emperor Akbar in 1569, this was the old capital of the Moghuls, which was abandoned after 15 years due to lack of water. After Fatehpur Sikri we will proceed to Rathambore National Park we will stop at our lunching desintation at Kalakhao before proceeding onward with our journey. Continue drive to Ranthambore. Arrive and check in at your hotel. Later enjoy your dinner in the hotel.
Ranthambore National Park, haven to India’s remaining Bengal tigers and where the shallow lakes, gentle slopes and plateaus dominate the landscape of the park making an ideal setting to spot the elusive tiger. Apart from the Bengal Tiger, other animals that inhabit the park are Sloth Bears, Jackals, Marsh Crocodiles, Leopards, Gazelles, Indian Hares, Porcupines, Jungle Cats, Sambhars, Chinkaras, Mongoose, Nilgai, Wild Boar, and Monitor Lizards. The park is equally rich in flora where the Banyan, Dhak, Mango, and Pipal trees are in abundance. A large variety of birds can also be seen and heard in the park.
Arrive and check in at hotel.
In the evening we will enjoy dinner in the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: The Tigress Spa & Resort, RanthamboreThe Tigress Spa & Resort, Ranthambore
Village Khilchipur Near Helipad,Ranthambhore Sawai Madhopur 322001, Rajasthan Indiahttp://www.thetigress.co.in+91 9587723234Heritage property located adjacent to the Ranthambhore National Park; offer two types of Rooms to choose your relaxation option ranging from Royal Luxury Suites and Royal Luxury Villas; all tastefully designed with modern amenities to ensure that your stay is comfortable and memorable. Every room amenities includes, spacious living area, Mini bar, personal sit out area, conveniences along with courteous Room Service.
The resort offers Indian and International cuisines prepared by expert chefs blending the traditional flavors with modern techniques and the freshest ingredients to create delicious food for you. We have an experience and friendly staff to manage your trip as an unforgettable stay in resort.
-
-
Day 7:
Ranthambore National Park
Your day will begin before sunrise with coffee/tea and biscuits before setting off on an early morning game drive in search of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Return to the hotel for breakfast later in the morning.
By late afternoon we will head out on another game drive to experience the sights and sounds of the park at the close of the day. We will end our safari just before sunset as we return to the hotel ending our day just before sunset.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerAccommodation: The Tigress Spa & Resort, RanthamboreThe Tigress Spa & Resort, Ranthambore
Village Khilchipur Near Helipad,Ranthambhore Sawai Madhopur 322001, Rajasthan Indiahttp://www.thetigress.co.in+91 9587723234Heritage property located adjacent to the Ranthambhore National Park; offer two types of Rooms to choose your relaxation option ranging from Royal Luxury Suites and Royal Luxury Villas; all tastefully designed with modern amenities to ensure that your stay is comfortable and memorable. Every room amenities includes, spacious living area, Mini bar, personal sit out area, conveniences along with courteous Room Service.
The resort offers Indian and International cuisines prepared by expert chefs blending the traditional flavors with modern techniques and the freshest ingredients to create delicious food for you. We have an experience and friendly staff to manage your trip as an unforgettable stay in resort.
-
-
Day 8:
Ranthambore – Jaipur
After breakfast we leave for a 4 hour drive to Jaipur which is known all over the world as the ‘Pink City’. Jaipur will amaze you with the architecture and planning of both its old and new cities. Experience how the city explodes into a kaleidoscope of colour and hear the bustling sounds at every corner of this vibrant city. Jaipur is an excellent place to shop for textiles and designer jewellery. Arrive and check-in to your hotel, afternoon is free to explore the area and do some shopping.
Optional: Cooking class and dinner with a local family. For those who would like to spend an interesting, educational, and social evening we have just the event for you. Join a well-known Rajput family in their home to learn some great techniques in Rajasthani Indian Cuisine. The in-house chefs will explain various techniques and share secrets of how to use Indian spices for all your favourite dishes. The evening will culminate in a lovely dining experience where you will be able to enjoy the delectable feast.
CAD $125.00 per person (Limited guests and subject to availability).Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Hilton JaipurHilton Jaipur
-
Day 9:
Jaipur
After breakfast we venture to the outskirts of Jaipur where we will be greeted and transported to the magnificent Amber Fort Palace. Later, we proceed for a city tour of Jaipur and stop for a photo at the Hawa Mahal, the “Palace of the Winds.” This incredible building was built to allow the royal ladies of the palace to discretely watch the grand processions along the main street. Next, we visit the City Palace Museum which has a priceless collection of antiques, costumes, and armory of the Mughals and Rajputs including swords of different shapes and sizes with chiseled handles. We then continue to the Jantar Mantar Observatory which was built in the early 1700s by Maharaja Jai Sing II, the great warrior-astronomer to which this city owes its name.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Hilton JaipurHilton Jaipur
-
Day 10:
Jaipur – Delhi
After breakfast we will leave on our 5 hour journey to New Delhi where you will check in at the airport hotel until your flight departs for home. An Explore India representative will meet you and transfer you to the international airport.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Vivanta New Delhi, DwarkaVivanta New Delhi, Dwarka
Metro Station Rd, Sector 21, Dwarka, New Delhi, Delhi 110075, Indiahttps://www.vivantahotels.com/en-in/vivanta-new-delhi-dwarka/+91 11 6600 3000Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka – Designed to delight high fliers from all angles. Laidback but efficient. Elegant and spacious. Directly connected to the heart of the city with easy access to the Sector 21 Metro station. As one of the most opulent 5-star business hotels in NewDelhi, it aims to change the face of business, in a space where you can work and play seamlessly. Spanning 7 acres, Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka is one of the best hotels near Delhi airport. It wraps you in luxury the minute you step in. The stylish space is home to a chic lobby, never-ending rooms and multiple outlets for the finest culinary experiences. You are never far from the city. A 20-minute drive eastward leads you to the heart and soul of the city – Lutyens’ New Delhi! And the domestic and international airports are an easy 15-minute drive westward. Everything you need, and then some, around every corner. Where business and luxury unite, in an experience like no other!
-
-
Day 11:
Delhi – Home
In time, transfer to Delhi airport to board your flight for home.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s included
- International Roundtrip Airfare
- Accommodation in well-reviewed first-class hotels
- 19 meals as per the program – breakfast, lunches, and dinners
- Airport meet and greet with private group transfers
- Unlimited mineral water and snacks during sightseeing tours
- Entry tickets to all monuments as per the tour program
- Two wildlife Safari’s at Ranthambore National Park
- English-speaking resident tour manager
- FREE Wi-Fi at hotels during your stay
- FREE: 24/7 Explore India Concierge team to assist with any last-minute, unexpected, and unusual requests
What’s excluded
- Personal expenses, laundry, bar bills, phone bills, etc.
- Any other sightseeing other than mentioned in the program
- Services other than in our inclusion
- Gratuities – $150 CAD per person must be paid after your arrival in India directly to your tour director. These basic gratuities will cover tour escorts, luggage handling, porters, restaurants, drivers, and other members providing services during your tour. Applies to group tours only.
- Additional taxes of $227 per person
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
Recent Reviews
Hi Nazir, Greg and I thoroughly enjoyed our trip to India. We were impressed with the excellent service from all Explore India personnel. Your choice of hotels, points of interest and breakfasts were excellent. Our driver and bus helper were especially good. Thank you for a wonderful trip. Ram, ram
Elaine and Greg
Burnaby, Canada
Hi Nazir: I meant to respond to you before now, but a number of work and family issues have taken my time and attention. First of all, let me say that I enjoyed my trip immensely. Indeed, it will take me considerable time to digest the experience. India is so different in every way (and then some) from Canada. We were exposed to the culture, history, life, architecture and spiritual side of India while being protected from the extreme change. Your guides were all experts, sensitive to individual and group needs, but able to keep the tour moving. Sandeep was especially good. I feel I have truly been absorbed into India and its way of life. The guides in Nepal were also excellent, and they were so proud of their country. Our guide there took us to the home of a friend for a "cooking" experience. They were such a nice family and so hospitable. They offered real insight into traditional family life, but also the younger generation's energy to get ahead. The guide's friend (who had trained with him for his guiding certificate/license) also owns a coffee shop in the old part of the city and her husband is in medical school. The whole family (his parents, brother and the couple) lives in a very modest 3 level apartment under conditions Canadians would complain about. Still, they were so generous, friendly and hospitable. I never felt vulnerable or in danger the whole time. I'm sure this was carefully managed by the guides. Still, people were genuinely friendly, in spite of the fact that we were obviously naive and privileged westerners. The hotels were all top notch. It was wonderful to be able to hole into some western comfort at the end of the day. The Delhi hotels near the airport were very nice and appreciated when air travel was involved. The hotel in Udaipur was charming and unique - what an experience! I think Udaipur is my favourite city in India. All in all, it was a wonderful experience that I will never forget - a once in a lifetime experience. You can be proud of what you have achieved. From a traveller's perspective, it was excellent value with all one could ask from a tour. Many thanks for all your help - especially the travel hitch with Air Canada at the front end in the Sault and Toronto. All the best,
Larry Whalen Sault Ste.Marie
Sault Ste.Marie, Canada
Overall, it was an excellent tour, and very good value for our money. I would strongly recommend your company to any friends that wanted to do a tour, and would strongly recommend Ravi for any friends that wanted to hire a guide privately as well. (I am considering perhaps returning to India for a couple of weeks of "living" rather than "touring" in a few years, and will definitely contact you for advice, since you obviously know the country and the travel business very well!)
Michelle Albert-Burke
Ottawa, Canada
The whole tour was superb; everything went very smoothly, the choice of sites was perfect, the hotels were excellent, well-supplied and clean, the bus was comfortable, the driver, Praveen (?) and water wallah, Shambo, were friendly, competent and very amenable. Our guide was wonderful at keeping all 22 of us happy, thanks to his ability to listen, adapt, add and subtract as necessary. Speaking of Rajeev, a 5+ star guide! What a calm, patient, well-informed, flexible, attentive person to travel with! He gave us time to explore when desired, tweaked things where necessary and rolled with the punches that a bunch of bossy adults used to having their own way could throw him. He made us feel safe and special throughout the trip, whether we were crossing a road, feeding cows, riding an elephant or negotiating prices, all this with an unfailing sense of humour. There was not one glitch in our bus arrival, suitcase sorting, passport collection and distribution or room allocation. All in all, a magical voyage which is very much in my mind, my conversations and my dreams.
Deborah Holdsworth
Toronto, ON, Canada
What a wonderful trip. It exceeded all expectations. My husband ,who was not too keen on going loved it. Everything was wonderful, no changes necessary to the programme. We just had a wonderful time. You need to advertise India more. It was unbelievable. Thanks very much.
Gwyneth & Keith Jones
Winnipeg, Canada
03 MAR, 2018: The trip was very interesting and educational. We appreciated the opportunity to see a broad spectrum of life in India and particularly the countryside and life in the villages. The accommodations and the food were excellent. And the weather couldn’t have been any better. The guide for our tour, Yajur, had a vast array of knowledge which he pleasantly and willingly passed on. He answered in great detail the questions our group had and had a vast and varied knowledge of India, its culture and history and provided the information freely and willingly. The entire group got on well together and appreciated the active agenda provided. The bus provided (with driver Lalit and assistant Ranjit) was excellent and fit the size of the group well – we appreciated the fact that we were not jammed in as sardines. And we really appreciated going off the main roads and into interior portions of the country. The trip and the experience have certainly whetted our appetite to revisit the country and see different aspects. Thanks to you, Nadir and Mansoor.
Bill & Laurie Shaw
Saskatoon SK, Canada
We are safely back from India which is quite a feat seeing the driving there is hard to believe. We had a great time, saw lots, ate and drank lots and met some really nice people. It really was quite an experience. I wanted to let you know that we really appreciated your staff in India. They were all wonderful. We could not have asked for better.
Lori & Ron
Surrey, Canada
A Journey of the Senses and it was! I don't believe I could have found a better way to see this part of India, thanks to Explore India. It was an absolute adventure and I didn't want to miss a thing! The tour was very well organized, safe and educational. Tour guide Ashiesch Korana was excellent as was our guide in Nepal - Sanjay Nepal. I learned so much from these 2 special people. The hotel accommodation was excellent as was the bus transportation. All in all this trip was an experience of a lifetime for me and many thanks to you Nazir and explore India for enabling me to visit India and Nepal - 2 countries on my bucket list. Sincerely, Barb Schimpl
Barb Schimpl
Vernon BC.
We have finally got a minute to collect our thoughts and tell you what a fabulous trip we had with you and your team. Since returning on November 23rd from our 35 day trip of a lifetime to India, it was everything we had hoped for. As our guide in Varanasi said when speaking of his city, some people hate it and some people love it, but nobody will ever forget it. We think this thought could well apply to India in general. With that in mind, WE LOVED IT and will never forget it. You were the perfect tour director, with your great attention to detail and endless personal connections making everything seem so seamless for us. Your team through the trip were wonderful ambassadors for the country; they loved their work and loved to tell us about India. We were so glad that you sold us on including Kashmir in the itinerary; it is a very special place, I have about 3000 photos to cull and organize, and these will provide hours of memories. When I get them sorted, I will send along a few for your files.
Ian & Cathy Lang
Waterloo, Canada
Leona and I thoroughly enjoy our trip. The trip was just right, not too short or too long.With a small group, we got to know everyone and even promise to travel together in the future. No problem with the Hotels or our meals. Kingfisher beer and only Kingfisher beer, no complaint. Our tour guide Sanjay, was excellent. He was very knowledgeable and funny. Overall, it was a good trip and I highly recommended your company to our friends as a place to deal with. We are planning to go back in 2 years to see the south part of India or trekking north to Darjeeling, Sikkim area.
Owen & Leona Wong
Vancouver, Canada
Tour Extensions
Check & Compare
You can read hundreds of online reviews of destinations and hotels, but with our up-to-date first-hand knowledge, we will be able to compare and contrast different options and ensure we find something that is just right for you.
You will travel to India like a member of our own family. Our deep love and passion for India and its people, we are a family owned and operated luxury travel company.
Planning a trip needs careful care and attention to detail and that is where Explore India comes in with the passion to make every tour a hassle-free and memorable one for each of our guests.
Be sure to take notice of our standard of accommodation, the specialized sightseeing trips, the seamless flow of the itinerary, the comfort of the coach you will travel in, the customized dining experiences, and much more.
FEEL CONFIDENT TRAVELING WITH EXPLORE INDIA
No company is big or small when you have 100% capability of exceeding guest expectations. A rating of 10 out of 10 does not adequately reflect the level of the experience and value of the tour that we provide to India especially for the first time visitors. Explore India’s success can be traced all the way back to those early days of learning what it means to be a host and to this day, our motto is to treat the guest like a member of the family. A sure testimonial to the business, given the fact that many Canadians have travelled not one, not twice, but three times with Explore India, the early teachings seem to have paid off, as touring to India with us is a sought-after experience in Canada and beyond.