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Overview
Hosted By Vancouver Based Award Winning Photographer Brian K. Smith MPA
India is a country of beautiful extremes and you are about to experience the absolute best and most captivating aspects of this beguiling land on this fabulous tour. Glimpses of this enchanting land are revealed to you in Delhi as you discover the beauty of the people and the bustling city, they live in. From there you are whisked to another world when you enter the ancient city of the Golden Fort – Jaisalmer. Awe-inspiring Mehrangarh Fort feels like a work of angles and giants. Jaipur, the city of victory, the first planned city of India founded in 1727 enchants you with its colourful bazaars and majestic forts. The forts and palaces give way to the feeling of ultimate love and devotion as you move to the majestic, yet the worldly story of the greatest symbol of love, the Taj Mahal. As you walk through the entrance gate in anticipation of casting our eyes upon this incredible structure, you are not prepared for this vision as the radiant beauty unveils herself before your eyes. The sweetness of this place seems to manifest as energy that seeps into your soul and soothes your heart. As you move closer to the Taj Mahal you are stunned at how many photos you have seen but nothing like your eyes are capturing at this incredibly memorable moment. You feel as though you have stepped back in time as you stroll the grounds and feel the love of this beautiful space. All this and more on this amazing tour of Rajasthan as well as the cities of Agra and Varanasi and, to top it off, a professional photographer with you too!! Indeed, acclaimed photographer Brian K Smith will be on this journey of a lifetime capturing the magical moments as they are presented to you. You will be able to not only enjoy each moment but have the opportunity to reflect back on those memorable moments with the photos Brian will take and prepare and send to you. You won’t miss a moment taking photos but will have all the candid moments of your magical trip through Rajasthan, Agra, and Varanasi to cherish forever.
Brian K.Smith MPA
Brian had an extremely successful 2020 BC Image Competition. In addition to an Honourable Mention for his Group Portrait “Urology Fellows Grad” he also was awarded a Best in Class Award for his Editorial Image “Prayers for Tibet”. Most importantly, Brian was named the 2020 British Columbia Photographer of the Year.
Vancouver-born photographer, Brian Smith, began capturing the world as a 10-year-old with a simple point and shoot camera. It was not long after that he was drawn to more sophisticated 35mm cameras and the magic of the darkroom – a world soaked in amber light where life’s fleeting moments could be reproduced in black and white. Immediately after high school graduation, Brian attended the Professional Photography Program at Langara College, providing a solid foundation for a life-long career behind the lens. The nine to five has Brian capturing the essence of public healthcare as a medical/corporate photographer for Providence Health Care and Vancouver Coastal Health, based out of the historic St. Paul’s Hospital in downtown Vancouver. He is responsible for documenting medical & scientific procedures, operating room photography, studio portraits, publications, public relations, high definition video camera work, and video conferencing. Brian has operated his own professional photography business since 1992, specializing in travel, humanitarian, portrait, event, and fine art photography. Using the varied geography and culture of the world as inspiration, Brian has travelled to more than 40 countries. Journeys through Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, India, Myanmar, the Mekong River, Laos, Cambodia, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia (Borneo), China, and more recently, Tibet, contribute to the eastern influences woven throughout his work. This has provided him with material to host over 30 fine art gallery shows of his photography. His work has been featured on the CBC, Rogers Television, Kodak Canada’s national magazine,
and many other publications. Brian is a member of the Professional Photographers of Canada and the Lower Mainland Regional Chair for
the Professional Photographers of Canada-BC (6 years). He has a Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) with accreditation in TravelIllustration, Nature, and Scenic photography. Brian is also a National Judge of Accreditation and Salon (PPOC). Brian’s awards include the Nikon Award Of Excellence (PPOC-BC) and Best Portrait of a Man (PPOC-BC). He is an Association Member and an active volunteer with Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders). Brian serves on the Creative Arts Advisory Board and he is an Instructor in the Continuing Education Travel Program at Langara College.
Tour Highlights
- Unique, authentic, and magnificently beautiful cultural experiences throughout the tour.
- 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.
- Take an exhilarating bicycle rickshaw ride through the narrow back lanes of Old Delhi.
- Visit the oldest living city of India which is also home to one of the worlds’ most time-honoured and mysterious cultures. The fascinating city of Varanasi.
- You will feel as though you are in another world as you stroll through the meticulously planned gardens as you head toward the world’s largest monument of love, the Taj Mahal. As the sun slowly rises over this jewel of India, it will reveal itself to you in all its glory, taking it from the subtlety of night to its grandiose brilliance at daybreak.
- Experience the majestic Amber Fort Palace in Jaipur built-in 1592.
- Walking tours exploring historic cities of Jodhpur and Varanasi.
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Depart Canada
Depart Canada for India. Your international flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment.
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Day 2:
Arrive in India
Welcome to Delhi, a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings.
You will be greeted by an Explore India representative at the airport and escorted to the hotel. Overnight stay in Delhi.
Accommodation: Sheraton New Delhi HotelSheraton New Delhi Hotel
District Centre, Saket, New Delhi 110017 Indiahttps://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/delsn-sheraton-new-delhi-hotel/+91 11 4266 1122Find total comfort in our 220 guest rooms & suites, ranging from 340 to 1,020 square feet , designed to offer the discerning business & leisure traveler ‘A Home Away From Home Experience’ The hotel’s highly awarded food and beverage outlets offer a variety of delectable cuisine spanning Indian fare, Southeast Asian specialties and continental favourites. The beautiful and spacious ballroom, with pre-function area and large wooden doors, is exquisitely decorated with crystal chandeliers, It is ready to welcome weddings and cocktail dinners for up to 350 guests, theatre-style conferences for up to 250, and receptions for up to 300. The hotel offers Efficient business center with essential secretarial services.
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Day 3:
Delhi - Explore Old and New Delhi
After your breakfast at the hotel you will start the morning tour by exploring 17th Century Old Delhi, visit the Jama Mosque the royal mosque built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in 1656. We will take a bicycle rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, the spine of Old Delhi that houses the spice market and jeweler’s lane and then proceed to Qutab Minar, located in South Delhi. This magnificent monument in red and buff sandstone is the highest tower in India. Built in the early 13th century, the surrounding archaeological area contains funerary buildings, notably the magnificent Alai-Darwaza Gate, the masterpiece of Indo-Muslim art (built in 1311), and two mosques, including the Quwwatu’l-Islam, the oldest in northern India, built of materials reused from some 20 Brahman temples.
In the afternoon you will visit another UNESCO World heritage site, Humayun’s Tomb. Humayun was the second Mughal Emperor of India. The tomb was built by his widow Baiga Begum in 1569-70, 14 years after his death at a cost of 1.5 million rupees. It 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.
Later in the evening, we invite you to enjoy dinner in the heart of Connaught Place – one of the largest financial, commercial and business centres in New Delhi. The main commercial area of the new city, during the time of the British Raj, its environs occupy a place of pride in the city and are counted among the top heritage structures in New Delhi. It was developed as a showpiece of Lutyens’ Delhi with a prominent Central Business District.Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Sheraton New Delhi HotelSheraton New Delhi Hotel
District Centre, Saket, New Delhi 110017 Indiahttps://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/delsn-sheraton-new-delhi-hotel/+91 11 4266 1122Find total comfort in our 220 guest rooms & suites, ranging from 340 to 1,020 square feet , designed to offer the discerning business & leisure traveler ‘A Home Away From Home Experience’ The hotel’s highly awarded food and beverage outlets offer a variety of delectable cuisine spanning Indian fare, Southeast Asian specialties and continental favourites. The beautiful and spacious ballroom, with pre-function area and large wooden doors, is exquisitely decorated with crystal chandeliers, It is ready to welcome weddings and cocktail dinners for up to 350 guests, theatre-style conferences for up to 250, and receptions for up to 300. The hotel offers Efficient business center with essential secretarial services.
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Day 4:
Delhi - Jaisalmer (By Flight)
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Delhi’s airport to board your flight to Jaisalmer. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Jaisalmer is a former medieval trading center and a princely state in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, in the heart of the Thar Desert. Known as the “Golden City,” it’s distinguished by its yellow sandstone architecture. Dominating the skyline is Jaisalmer Fort, a sprawling hilltop citadel buttressed by 99 bastions. Behind its massive walls stand the ornate Maharaja’s Palace and intricately carved Jain temples.
In the evening you will go on the highly anticipated and memorable camel Safari on Sam Sand Dunes – The village of Sam is Jaisalmer’s nearest real Sahara-like desert. The best place to see the sunrise and sunset on the picturesque sand dunes. The ripples on the wind-caressed dunes create an enchanting mirage and are a delight to witness. Various cultural programs are organized against the backdrop of these fascinating dunes. Exciting camel safaris allow you to really experience the magic of the desert.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & SpaJaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa
Jaislmer - Sam - Dhanana Rd, Police Line, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001, Indiahttps://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/jsamc-jaisalmer-marriott-resort-and-spa/+91 2992 266 688Allow Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa to provide a sensational backdrop for your visit to the “Golden City.” Step into your 5-star hotel room or suite; our accommodation is overflowing with luxury perks, such as plush bedding, a stately marble bathroom, free Wi-Fi access, 24-hour room service and a flat-screen TV. Many rooms showcase sweeping views of legendary Jaisalmer Fort or the surrounding cityscape. Satisfy every craving at our hotel’s first-class on-site restaurants, take a swim in our heated pool or pamper yourself at Quan Spa. Host your business event or social occasion at our resort to benefit from versatile, sophisticated venue space, including a ballroom and an immaculately manicured lawn area, as well as superb event planning and catering services. You’ll have no trouble exploring the local area while you’re staying our hotel; we feature a 5-star location in Jaisalmer, near the Sam Sand Dunes, Patwon ki Haveli and Thar Desert. We can’t wait to welcome you to Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa.
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Day 5:
Exploring Jaisalmer
After breakfast, you will go on a city tour of Jaisalmer. Visit Jaisalmer Fort, the main attraction of this picturesque desert city of Rajasthan. Located on the top of the Trikuta Hill, the ramparts, bastions and the long-stretching walls of the fort dazzle gloriously during early morning and at sunset. Continue on to Gadsisar Lake, a rainwater lake, adorned with an arched gateway. Many small shrines and temples are festooned all around the lake. Today, it is an ideal picnic spot, famous for boating.
You will also visit Jaisalmer’s most intricately carved havelis or mansions – Salim Singh ki Haveli, built around 300 years ago, this haveli belonged to Salim Singh, the Prime Minister to then Maharaja of Jaisalmer, Maharaja Rawal Gaj Singh. Yellow stone that is covered with intricate carvings, elaborate balcony and beautiful blue cupola roofs characterize Salim Singh ki Haveli. Patwon-ki-Haveli, the grandest mansion in Jaisalmer, having a ceiling supported by exquisitely carved pillars. The delicately chiselled balconies and extensive corridors and chambers of this haveli also present an impressive sight. Round off the tour with a walk through the narrow cobbled street.Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & SpaJaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa
Jaislmer - Sam - Dhanana Rd, Police Line, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001, Indiahttps://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/jsamc-jaisalmer-marriott-resort-and-spa/+91 2992 266 688Allow Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa to provide a sensational backdrop for your visit to the “Golden City.” Step into your 5-star hotel room or suite; our accommodation is overflowing with luxury perks, such as plush bedding, a stately marble bathroom, free Wi-Fi access, 24-hour room service and a flat-screen TV. Many rooms showcase sweeping views of legendary Jaisalmer Fort or the surrounding cityscape. Satisfy every craving at our hotel’s first-class on-site restaurants, take a swim in our heated pool or pamper yourself at Quan Spa. Host your business event or social occasion at our resort to benefit from versatile, sophisticated venue space, including a ballroom and an immaculately manicured lawn area, as well as superb event planning and catering services. You’ll have no trouble exploring the local area while you’re staying our hotel; we feature a 5-star location in Jaisalmer, near the Sam Sand Dunes, Patwon ki Haveli and Thar Desert. We can’t wait to welcome you to Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa.
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Day 6:
Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (280KM/ 5 Hours)
After breakfast, we will drive to Jodhpur, along the way you will experience the country with camel carts trucks, cows, and buffalos. Jodhpur is a historic city whose origins date back to the year 1459 AD. Jodhpur is also known as the ‘Blue City’, an apt name as most houses in the old city are shades of blue. This is particularly noticeable on the north side of the town, known as Brahmpuri for the many Brahmins that live there. On arrival check-in at your hotel.
In the afternoon we will check-in to our rooms and have time to relax. Later in the afternoon we will enjoy an auto-rickshaw ride and visit the market around the Clock Tower area on foot, Jodhpur’s busiest marketplace.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Fairfield by Marriott JodhpurFairfield by Marriott Jodhpur
Opposite New High Court, Near Shatabdi Circle, Vijay Raje Nagar, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342013, Indiahttps://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/jdhfi-fairfield-jodhpur/+91 291 711 2222Come discover the sights, sounds and colors of Rajasthan at Fairfield by Marriott Jodhpur. Our 4-star hotel welcomes travelers to Jodhpur with a superb location, spacious accommodations and a wealth of inspired amenities. Situated opposite the new High Court, our hotel offers an unparalleled vantage point from which to explore the city. Relax in our contemporary guest rooms and suites, each exquisitely outfitted to cater to the needs of the modern traveler; find features like high-speed Wi-Fi, luxurious bedding and floor-to-ceiling windows. Awaken refreshed and embrace all that our hotel has to offer, including International dining at Kava, a modern fitness center and comprehensive event and meeting room space. Make time to explore many of Jodhpur’s most prominent attractions, such as Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mehrangarh Fort, Clock tower market & Mandore garden. Come chart your own adventure in Rajasthan at Fairfield by Marriott Jodhpur.
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Day 7:
Jodhpur (280KM/ 5 Hours)
After breakfast, we will start with a sightseeing tour of Jodhpur city visiting Mehrangarh Fort situated at an altitude of about 125 meters and spread over an area of 5 square km. The fort crowns a rocky hill that rises 400 feet above the surrounding plain, and appears both to command and to meld with the landscape. One of the largest forts in Rajasthan, it contains some of the finest palaces and preserves in its museum, many priceless relics of Indian courtly life. For over five centuries Mehrangarh has been the headquarters of the senior branch of the Rajput clan known as the Rathore.
Next, visit Umaid Bhawan Palace built by Maharaja Umaid Singh (1929 – 1942) and also named after him. This exquisite palace is also known as Chittar Palace because of the local chittar sandstone used in it. It is a splendid example of Indo-colonial and art deco architecture of the 30s.
Later in the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour and discover the history and heritage of Jodhpur. We will stroll through the lanes of Jodhpur, known as the Blue City, where forts, palaces, temples, and havelis have been painted in vivid shades of blue. You will have the opportunity to chat with the locals, who no doubt will barely be able to suppress their delight and surprise at sitting next to a foreigner from far-away landsMeals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Fairfield by Marriott JodhpurFairfield by Marriott Jodhpur
Opposite New High Court, Near Shatabdi Circle, Vijay Raje Nagar, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342013, Indiahttps://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/jdhfi-fairfield-jodhpur/+91 291 711 2222Come discover the sights, sounds and colors of Rajasthan at Fairfield by Marriott Jodhpur. Our 4-star hotel welcomes travelers to Jodhpur with a superb location, spacious accommodations and a wealth of inspired amenities. Situated opposite the new High Court, our hotel offers an unparalleled vantage point from which to explore the city. Relax in our contemporary guest rooms and suites, each exquisitely outfitted to cater to the needs of the modern traveler; find features like high-speed Wi-Fi, luxurious bedding and floor-to-ceiling windows. Awaken refreshed and embrace all that our hotel has to offer, including International dining at Kava, a modern fitness center and comprehensive event and meeting room space. Make time to explore many of Jodhpur’s most prominent attractions, such as Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mehrangarh Fort, Clock tower market & Mandore garden. Come chart your own adventure in Rajasthan at Fairfield by Marriott Jodhpur.
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Day 8:
Jodhpur - Pushkar (180KM / 4.5 Hours)
After breakfast drive to the quiet desert town of Pushkar. Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in India and is a favoured destination for thousands of tourists and devotees flocking to Rajasthan. At a height of 510 metres, Pushkar is surrounded by hillocks on three sides. The ‘Nag Pahar’, literally meaning Snake Mountain forms a natural border between Ajmer and Pushkar. Known as ‘the rose garden of Rajasthan’, the essence of the famous Pushkar rose is exported all over the world. Along with an interesting mythological history, a legacy of timeless architectural heritage makes Pushkar a fascinating city.
This afternoon we will visit the local market of Pushkar and along the way, we will also visit the most important temple of Lord Brahma, this can be identified by its red spire and by the image of Hans (the swan considered sacred to Lord Brahma). This temple is built with marble and is decorated with silver coins.
This evening dinner will be at the campsite followed by Rajasthani traditional dance.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: The Greenhouse Resort, PushkarThe Greenhouse Resort, Pushkar
Kishanpura-Tilora Road,, Pushkar, Rajasthan 305022, Indiahttp://www.thegreenhouseresort.com/+91 93510 18303The Greenhouse is a luxurious boutique resort in the holy town of Pushkar. Located just ten minutes drive away from the city centre of Pushkar. The Greenhouse Resort is the perfect base to explore one of India’s most exotic and vibrant city-Pushkar.
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Day 9:
Pushkar - Jaipur | The Pink City (150KM / 3 Hours)
After breakfast, you will drive to Jaipur. The origin of Jaipur’s nickname becomes immediately apparent as we enter through the old city walls where we are greeted with peaceful pink-coloured buildings that can be seen from every turn. The city of Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Jai Singh II. Visit the famous Hindu Temple in the Pink City of Jaipur.
In the evening, enjoy an authentic dining experience with Rajasthani traditional dance and music.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Trident Hotel JaipurTrident Hotel Jaipur
Amber Fort Road, Opposite, Jal Mahal, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-jaipur+91 141 267 0101Resplendent in the hues of its magnificent past, Jaipur is one of the most vibrant, 5-star destinations in India. The capital and the largest city of Rajasthan, it was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727. Folklore has it that in 1876, the city was painted a luxury, warm pink colour to welcome the Prince of Wales (King Edward VII). Since then, the ‘pink city’, as it is lovingly called, has retained its rosy blush, which has charmed travelers from around the world.
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Day 10:
Jaipur - Exploring the Pink City
After breakfast, enjoy an excursion to Amber Fort by jeep. Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani Fort Palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression.
Visit the City Palace – A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. Jantar Mantar is the largest and the best-preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory, consisting of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use. Hawa Mahal is the ornamental facade of this “Palace of Winds” and is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. The five-story structure features sandstone plastered pink with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built-in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Trident Hotel JaipurTrident Hotel Jaipur
Amber Fort Road, Opposite, Jal Mahal, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, Indiahttps://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-jaipur+91 141 267 0101Resplendent in the hues of its magnificent past, Jaipur is one of the most vibrant, 5-star destinations in India. The capital and the largest city of Rajasthan, it was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727. Folklore has it that in 1876, the city was painted a luxury, warm pink colour to welcome the Prince of Wales (King Edward VII). Since then, the ‘pink city’, as it is lovingly called, has retained its rosy blush, which has charmed travelers from around the world.
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Day 11:
Jaipur - Agra & Fatehpur Sikri (260KM / 6 Hours)
After breakfast, you will drive to Agra, along the way we will visit one of the hidden secrets of India. The largest stepwells in the world built over a thousand years ago in the rural village of Abhaneri. Centuries ago, the stepwells were built in the arid zones of Rajasthan to provide water all year through.
After lunch continues driving to Agra. Upon arrival check-in at your hotel.Agra, a city famous for the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, is one of the world’s most recognized cities for one of the world’s most recognized monuments.
Arrive and check-in at your hotel. You are free to spend the afternoon as you wish, free time for you to enjoy your own personal activities.In the late afternoon enjoy the spectacular sunset viewing of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, an open space garden situated in between the Yamuna River.
live musical performance. This is an option for those who would like to watch an amazing 75- minute live show. The drama portrays the Mughal era in the 16th century and depicts the saga of love and is a memorable journey into history. It is a series of plays depicting the true and immortal love of Shahjahan for Mumtaz Mahal, his beautiful wife. It also highlights the lavish lifestyle of the Mughal era as well as the hardships of the artisans who worked for 22 years to create the most breathtaking work of craftsmanship in the world, the Taj Mahal.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, AgraTaj Hotel & Convention Centre, Agra
Taj East Gate Rd, Taj Nagari Phase 1, Telipara, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-hotel-and-convention-centre-agra+91 562 233 5555The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved queen, Mumtaz Mahal, almost 4 centuries ago, bestowing everlasting fame on the town of Agra. Even today millions flock to seventh wonder of this world. Agra’s newest landmark, the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, lies a short walk away from the Eastern Gate of this fabled monument. This modern 5 star hotel reimagines all that Agra can be.
Our luxury hotel in Agra has 239 plush rooms including 12 lavish suites and one presidential suite to whisk guests away into a world of repose.
A refreshing rooftop infinity pool with magical views of the Taj Mahal, an invigorating spa and a buzzing fitness centre are at hand to rejuvenate every guest.
There is also an abundance of dining options to delight the epicurean.
Daawat-e-Nawab, one of Agra’s finest Indian restaurants, serves authentic Nawaabi and Mughlai cuisine, accompanied by live Indian classical music.
The airy, spacious, all-day diner, Palato, with its lively buffets, show kitchens and globally inspired dishes, is always buzzing.
The Tea Lounge welcomes guests with a wide selection of rare teas, gourmet coffees, freshly baked breads and light bites.
The Liquid Lounge has an extensive wine list and a vast collection of Single Malts.
And Infini – The Sky Lounge, enlivens evenings with inventive cocktails and a live DJ. Guests can dance the night away here under the silvery gaze of the Taj Mahal.
The Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, Agra, also confers pride of place to 3700 sq mt of event spaces, conference venues including one of the biggest banquet halls in Agra. These event spaces & meeting venues in Agra have been designed to truly do justice to those annual sales meets or to big fat Indian weddings.
The luxury hotel also provides the perfect vantage point to take in the many riches of Agra. Including the rugged, red sandstone glory of Agra Fort, built by Emperor Akbar. The historic Fatehpur Sikri and Sikandra, two ancient cities seemingly locked in time. The exotic birds of Keoladeo National Park. And of course the many charms of the town itself.
Come, experience Agra in a new light.
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Day 12:
Agra and the Enchanting Walking Around the Taj Mahal
It will be an early morning as we start our day at sunrise with a visit to one of the most incredible monuments ever built in the world. The Taj Mahal is a monument of love built between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. The Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the most highly revered masterpieces in the world. After breakfast, visit Agra Fort, a UNESCO world heritage site with imposing walls of red sandstone. The fort is almost two miles long and contains palaces, audience halls and mosques.
In the afternoon we will visit an amazing marble factory to experience the creation of fine inlaid stonework and translucent marble that is native to the region. The craftsmen of Agra are renowned for the exquisite marble-inlay work that has made Agra’s monuments famous.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, AgraTaj Hotel & Convention Centre, Agra
Taj East Gate Rd, Taj Nagari Phase 1, Telipara, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, Indiahttps://www.tajhotels.com/en-in/taj/taj-hotel-and-convention-centre-agra+91 562 233 5555The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved queen, Mumtaz Mahal, almost 4 centuries ago, bestowing everlasting fame on the town of Agra. Even today millions flock to seventh wonder of this world. Agra’s newest landmark, the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, lies a short walk away from the Eastern Gate of this fabled monument. This modern 5 star hotel reimagines all that Agra can be.
Our luxury hotel in Agra has 239 plush rooms including 12 lavish suites and one presidential suite to whisk guests away into a world of repose.
A refreshing rooftop infinity pool with magical views of the Taj Mahal, an invigorating spa and a buzzing fitness centre are at hand to rejuvenate every guest.
There is also an abundance of dining options to delight the epicurean.
Daawat-e-Nawab, one of Agra’s finest Indian restaurants, serves authentic Nawaabi and Mughlai cuisine, accompanied by live Indian classical music.
The airy, spacious, all-day diner, Palato, with its lively buffets, show kitchens and globally inspired dishes, is always buzzing.
The Tea Lounge welcomes guests with a wide selection of rare teas, gourmet coffees, freshly baked breads and light bites.
The Liquid Lounge has an extensive wine list and a vast collection of Single Malts.
And Infini – The Sky Lounge, enlivens evenings with inventive cocktails and a live DJ. Guests can dance the night away here under the silvery gaze of the Taj Mahal.
The Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, Agra, also confers pride of place to 3700 sq mt of event spaces, conference venues including one of the biggest banquet halls in Agra. These event spaces & meeting venues in Agra have been designed to truly do justice to those annual sales meets or to big fat Indian weddings.
The luxury hotel also provides the perfect vantage point to take in the many riches of Agra. Including the rugged, red sandstone glory of Agra Fort, built by Emperor Akbar. The historic Fatehpur Sikri and Sikandra, two ancient cities seemingly locked in time. The exotic birds of Keoladeo National Park. And of course the many charms of the town itself.
Come, experience Agra in a new light.
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Day 13:
Explore One of the Oldest Cities in the World - Varanasi
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to connect to your flight to Varanasi.
Varanasi – the religious capital of Hinduism formerly known as Banaras during the British Raj. This is one of the world’s most ancient cultures and oldest living cities of India and home to one of the worlds’ most time-honoured and mysterious cultures dating back 5000 years. Its present name is derived from the fact that the city is at the confluence of the rivers Varuna and Assi.Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel. In the early evening, you will take a close look at the banks of the Ganges to witness the devotional ceremony of Aarti performed by thousands of devout Hindus. You will hear the prayers being chanted, the rhythmic drumming filling the air, and the bells from temples across the Holy Ganges.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Radisson Hotel VaranasiRadisson Hotel Varanasi
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Day 14:
Discover the River Ganges and Varanasi
This you will leave for a boat ride on the Ganges to see the bathing Ghats (river bank) & cremation site. You will watch the sunrise on the riverfront from a boat; this can be a spiritually uplifting sight. Life on the Ghats is bound in an endless string of rituals; ever-changing aspects of the river and the wide landscapes throughout have fascinated visitors from all over the world.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided excursion to Sarnath a center of Buddhist learning and the buried Buddhist city where Buddha preached his first sermon. After attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, the Buddha went to Sarnath and it was here that he preached his first discourse in the deer park and set in motion the ‘Wheel of the Dharma’. It is one of the holiest sites as it is believed that in this place the stream of the Buddha’s teaching first flowed. Sarnath was a renowned school of learning from the 16th century BC to the 12th century AD. Visit the ruins, the stupa, the Buddhist temple & the museum. At the museum is the Ashok Pillar with its four guardian lions, used as independent India’s national emblem.
This evening experience the uniqueness of the city with the Walking tour of Varanasi, which focuses on protecting the heritage, beauty and unchanged lifestyles from centuries ago. This aspect of the city, which is hidden and not many people get to see, will be yours to explore. The history behind all these treasures has been contributed and innovated by the great saints, poets, literary figures and musicians of the city. So many wonderful structures express the past and present civilization, beyond anybody’s imagination. This phenomenon is the key to India’s successful co-existence.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Radisson Hotel VaranasiRadisson Hotel Varanasi
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Day 15:
Varanasi - New Delhi
Breakfast at hotel In time you are transferred to Varanasi airport to board your flight for Delhi.
Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel close to airport.Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New DelhiPride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi
Asset 5A, Hospitality District, Aerocity, Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, Indiahttp://www.pridehotel.com/delhi/new-delhi-aerocity/+91 11 6600 7700Located in close proximity to Delhi and Gurgaon, Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi is the first luxury hotel in the capital by the Pride Group of Hotels.
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Day 16:
Delhi – Home
Departure to International airport for your flight home.
You will be transferred in due time to the international airport to connect to your flight home.
What’s included
- Roundtrip International Airfare
- Accommodation in 5 Star hotels as per the program
- Air Conditioned Motorcoach transportation throughout your trip
- Escorted transfers (airport to hotel, hotel to airport)
- Meals as specified per the program
- Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
- River Boat rides for Morning and Evening Rituals at the Holy Ganges
- Camel Safari in Jaisalmer with dinner and cultural program,
- Services of an accompanying Explore India Tour Director
- Unlimited Bottled water during sightseeing tours and snacks on long drives
- Entrance fees to all the monuments
What’s excluded
- Personal expenses, laundry, bar bills, phone bills, etc.
- Taxes $273
- Any other sightseeing other than mentioned in the program
- Services other than in our inclusion
- Gratuities – $250 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 tour only.
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Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
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Recent Reviews
Just got your note in the mail welcoming me home, so I thought I would just reply. Explore India gave me an experience I will never forget!! You lived up to everything you advertised and so much more. The attention to detail and making sure each and every one of us was having a good time were wonderful. We had an extraordinary group of 10. Such fun and jaw dropping adventures we old folks had. I would recommend your company without hesitation. Currently we are sharing photographs. George Lum was a star and I think he has given you a link. We are planning to get together in the next few weeks for a recap and just because we had so much fun together. Thank you, if there are any suggestions, I would say that the itinerary had too much in it. Our age group would have appreciated some down time for a drink or two.
Meg Holdsworth
Vancouver, 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
At last I sending you some feedback re our trip. As I said on the phone we were very pleased with experience. We were very impressed with our 2 drivers, Balvinder and Kool, as well as the 3 men at the houseboats. all were very pleasant, helpful and knowledgeable. My personal feeling is that 1 day long drive in kashmir was enough as the roads do not make for a relaxing experience, however we really enjoyed the day trip to Sonamarg. The vegetable market was wonderful. The guide we had in Varanasi was good with the information he gave us, however, The stop at the Bird Sanctuary was really nice and I wish we had been able to have more time there - I know it was an added stop at our request but I think it was very worthwhile to include it in the tour. All the hotels were very good, the Jaipur Marriott was outstanding. Would certainly recommend your company to others.
Carol Cook and Karen Kaler
Vancouver, Canada
Hi Nazir, It was good to finally meet you in Delhi. Thanks for the bag and the lovely gifts. What a surprise. We had a wonderful trip. We are still processing all the experiences and can't believe all that we crammed into our time in India. Rajeev did a great job of ensuring everything ran smoothly. An amazing trip!
Pamela & Jim
Ottawa, Canada
Sorry for the late reply, but Violet and I have been working on – stop since our return from India if February. We have been to many places, but India was by far the most exotic and wonderful country we have ever seen. The people, sights, food, cultures were amazing! There was nothing that we could mention to improve the experience. It really was extraordinary. We wish we could have stayed longer. In fact, if we had known about the extension to southern India, we would have booked that too. Your staff was exceptional. Everyone was very professional and extremely helpful at all times. We have already recommended your company to several of our friends, and we hope to go back to India with you as soon as we can. Violet and I are already thinking about getting away again. We are booked to go to the Oceania cruise event on Sunday, April 24th We are extremely happy with the level of service and the quality the Explore India has provided. If you ever need a reference please do not hesitate to ask. Thank you for everything,
Doug Smith and Violet Allard
Vancouver, Canada
Dear Nazir, We had a wonderful trip and were very pleased with the quality of the tour. The staff was very professional and friendly. We really appreciated the friendliness and great care your clients received. We have already recommended your company to others and hope to return to India again. The highlights for us were the safari and visiting the Taj Mahal. One suggestion I have is to suggest clients bring candies or small gifts (pencils, pins etc.) or a book to give to the children in the villages. We have so many fond memories and new friendships from our voyage. I hope to use your services again soon. Namaste
Edward and Patrice Campagnaro
Summerland, Canada
It has been a couple of months since we returned from our private tour in India. It is still on our minds, we had such a wonderful time. I wanted to contact you much sooner to let you know but with illness in our families, the holidays and business the time has passed so quickly. We really wanted to thank you for setting up such a great trip - our driver, Harpal, was excellent. He made the long drives enjoyable and took very good care of us, especially when David got sick for a few days. His care and attention to us let us relax and feel safe, which made the trip even more enjoyable. The guides were really good, the sites amazing, the hotels - especially Agra - We were lucky enough to see a tiger walk right past our jeep. The trip was memorable, exciting and romantic. My husband and I would highly recommend it as everything was taken care of and we had no worries or concerns once we met our driver and guide upon arriving at the Delhi airport. A truly exceptional experience and we are so glad we chose to book with Explore India. Thank you again. Regards,
Alix Patterson
West Vancouver, Canada
My wife, Julia, and I wanted to express to you our satisfaction with all the arrangements that were made for our group during our travels in India. Everything was absolutely wonderful and went extremely smoothly. Our guide, Shyaam Singh, was totally amazing. He was truly a professional as well as more than flexible with making changes to our itinerary to suit our needs. His knowledge and experience was very apparent and most appreciated. Our group felt like Shyaam was part of our family and he included us in a very enjoyable experience with celebrating Diwali with one of his friends family while we were in Varanasi. This was a wonderful experience for our group. Shyaam made our experiences in India more wonderful than we could ever have expected. We will highly recommend Explore India to all of our friends, family and personal contacts for any travels to India. Thank you very much for all of your hard work put into making our travels such a beautiful experience. Sincerely, Gord and Julia Donaldson
Gord & Julia Donaldson
Calgary AB, Canada
Dear Nazir, I wanted to express what a wonderful trip I experienced with Explore India. The tour far exceeded my expectations in every way: from the administration help from Mandira Gauba, the incredible tours, the fabulous accommodations which were all complimented by our extraordinary tour escort, Sandeep Singh whose enthusiasm and knowledge made the trip. A special shout out to our bus driver and assistant (sorry I do not remember their names) who throughout the trip went the extra mile (no pun intended) and who moved heaven and earth to get us to the airport on time for our departure despite unbelievable traffic. I would highly recommend your tour company to anyone looking to explore the beauty of India. Thank you so much and I look forward to returning to India in the future.
Lori Henry
Stratford, Canada
Nazir, Thank you very much for guiding Sirje to work up such a wonderful trip. We loved it. We now are totally amazed that more people do not travel to India to “Explore India”. The accommodations, guides meals etc that you arranged were wonderful. We have great respect for the capabilities of Explore India and will be happy to (and already have) recommend that friends work with Explore India to develop their trip. Having a contact in Canada that one can work with and a team in India which can manage all the details is a wonderful concept. We even shared your contact info with some friends in the USA who are looking for a North American contact to help them design a trip like ours. As a result of decades in management I am a strong believer in “continuous improvement” and so we would like to offer the following thoughts/observations that you might consider to make other people’s trips even better. We are not looking for reasons why things were not done the way we had anticipated but wanting to share our observations with you so that you can consider our thoughts when arranging future guests bookings. On the trip, many things stood out as much better than expected but the biggest ones (in my mind) were: 1) Having arrived on Saturday afternoon and having the tour start on Monday morning. By the time we got to the hotel we were exhausted and so it was great to have a day to sleep in and “recharge the batteries” so that on Monday morning we were ready to tour. 2) Going to Darjeeling. I know it was “Plan B” and put in near the last minute but your team did a fabulous job and we still cannot get over what a wonderful place it was to visit. A special vote of thanks to the Mayfair hotel which was excellent (by the way, talking with other tourists, they ranked the Cedar Hotel as number 3 or 4 and felt it smelt of mold). I would highly recommend continuing to use the Mayfair as the first choice. 3) At Varanasi, your team inserted an evening “walk through the market streets of old Varanasi) before going and hiring a boat to cruise the Ganges and watch the evening ceremonies. The walk included being able to see the Islamic Mosque built on the site of a Hindu Temple and the “new” Hindu Temple. The evening boat ride was a highlight and a much better viewing platform than watching from the shore. We were a bit worried because the write up in our itinerary (from you) did not explicitly say to watch from a boat and we were worried that the guide was going to skip the boat and watch from the shore. We were so pleased that he got the boat (as he did the following morning per the plan). Khalid’s idea to put the walk into the late afternoon itinerary was wonderful. 4) Having a Private tour for the two of us was wonderful. We could ask the guides all the questions that we wanted and not worry about holding up the others on the tour. We could also pause for photos and not worry about falling behind. 5) The quality of the guides greatly exceeded our expectations. In every city/site, they were great. They generally had mastered the slower speech so that we could follow what they were saying and they took a time to help us keep the various historical rulers in order in our minds, even when it meant repeating something they had said before. In addition, the guides at Agra and Fatehpur Sikri were great photographers who showed us some new angles and tricks for taking photos with cell phone cameras. 6) The sites like Darjeeling, Sarnath (with the Ashok Capital), Fatehpur Sikri, the Amber fort and the Astronomical Observatory were all sites that we had never heard of but should be included in tourists plans for India. 7) Having Heera Singh as our driver for Delhi and most cities close by was wonderful. He was superb and in addition to being a great driver, was very interested in making sure that he did everything he could to make our trip the best possible. In 2017, Sirje would like to personalize a small gift for him that hopefully, someone can take over on one of their trips to India. Again, I hope you understand that we had a wonderful trip, are very positive on the bookings that you and your team made, are already recommending that people talk with Explore India when planning their trip. I just wanted to give you some of our thoughts and observations. Wishing you and your team the very best during the holidays and for 2017. Thank you
Rob MacWilliam
Vancouver, Canada
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