India Forts & Palaces

Key Highlights:

• Delhi’s Historic Icons — Explore Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb, and feel the pulse of Old Delhi on a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk.
• The Taj Mahal — Experience the unforgettable beauty of India’s most famous monument up close in Agra.
• Sacred Pushkar — Visit the holy Pushkar Lake and the rare Brahma Temple, a spiritual centre of Rajasthan.
• Jodhpur’s Royal Heritage — Discover the imposing Mehrangarh Fort and the elegant marble cenotaph of Jaswant Thada.
• Udaipur’s Lakes & Palaces — Conclude your journey in the romantic “City of Lakes,” exploring Lake Pichola, the City Palace, and Jagat Temple.

Sample Itinerary (Subject to Change):

Day 1: Arrive Delhi, India

On arrival into Delhi Airport you will be met and welcomed by Mauli. A mauli is a sacred red thread tied during Hindu rituals as a symbol of divine protection. Worn on the wrist, it is believed to ward off negative energies and bring blessings of peace, prosperity, and good health. Its red colour signifies strength and spiritual energy, serving as a gentle reminder of one’s connection to the divine.

You will be transferred to your hotel and the remainder of your day is at leisure. Delhi is the capital and key gateway to India that is a blend of the modern and cultural heritage that includes exotic cuisine, rich heritage, bustling marketplaces, grand architecture and an array of experiences for the senses.

Day 2: Delhi

Today you will enjoy a full day guided sightseeing around Old and New Delhi. This fascinating city has been in existence since the 6th century BC and has seen ups and downs from the rule of the Pandavas to the British Raj. 

Introduction to Hindi: Learn a few Hindi words with your guide, which will not only help you better understand the locals, but also communicate more easily with them. This little bit of language knowledge will facilitate your exchanges, allow you to create more authentic connections and enrich your cultural experience during your trip.

Delhi is a city of nearly 20 million that is split between the spacious avenues of New Delhi and the busy, narrow lanes of Old Delhi. Your visit takes you through Old Delhi, past the Red Fort and into Chandni Chowk, the lively main market. Enjoy a rickshaw ride and browse shops known for silver jewellery, handicrafts, and sweets. You’ll also visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in the Indian subcontinent.

Discover and taste Jalebi: The South Asian variety is made by frying a dough made from maida flour (plain flour or all-purpose flour), shaped into pretzel shapes or circular spirals. Once golden and crispy, these are dipped in a fragrant sugar syrup, giving them a crunchy texture on the outside and a soft texture on the inside.

Visit Raj Ghat and discover the enchanting Humayun tomb, surrounded by lush gardens and built in memory of the Mughal emperor Humayun by his devoted wife. Pass by India Gate, the Parliament building and the President’s House. Finally, visit Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, one of Delhi’s most revered Sikh temples, known for its serene atmosphere and striking architecture. Don’t miss the ‘langar’ community kitchen where free meals are served daily to thousands, reflecting the Sikh values of equality, service, and compassion—a truly moving and humbling experience.

Day 3: Delhi – Agra

Travel to Agra by road today and explore the city’s timeless charm. Agra is home to the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Later, visit the Red Fort, the former residence of the Mughal emperors. Akbar and Jahangir built much of it in red sandstone, while Shah Jahan added sections in white marble. Commissioned in 1565 by Akbar, this beautiful yet forbidding structure is a fine example of Mughal architecture.

In evening visit to the famous Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays) at sunset. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The construction of this magnificent mausoleum dedicated to love was completed in 22 years.

Visit a Petha shop to taste this famous sweet treat originating in Agra that holds a special place in its culinary heritage. The main ingredient in Petha is the ash gourd, which is peeled, deseeded, and cut into pieces. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, sampling different varieties of Petha is an activity not to be missed in Agra.  In the evening, you will attend a magic show. Distance travelled 204km / Approx 4.5 hours.

Day 4: Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Jaipur

Following the breakfast at the hotel, drive to Jaipur, enroute visiting Fatehpur Sikri, the magnificent fortified ghost town near Agra. Founded in 1571 by Emperor Akbar, this former Mughal capital was built in honour of Sufi saint Salim Chishti and showcases an exceptional blend of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architecture.

Continue driving to Jaipur, the largest city in the state of Rajasthan (The Land of The Kings). This vibrant capital, is fondly known as the “Pink City” for the distinctive rose-coloured buildings of its old quarter—a tradition begun in 1876 to welcome a visit from Prince Albert in the English royal family. Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur is one of India’s earliest planned cities, designed with ancient Hindu architectural principles. Surrounded by rugged hills and crowned with majestic forts, the city blends historic charm with striking desert landscapes.

If time permits, visit Raj Mandir Cinema Hall, a Bollywood movie, Rajasthan’s largest cinema with a capacity of 2,500 seats, complete with small waiting rooms, a bar and a very chic decor. Even if you don’t understand Hindi, this experience will leave you amazed. Distance travelled 240km / Approx 5 hours.

Day 5: Jaipur

Today is filled with a guided sightseeing tour of Jaipur. Visit Amber Fort, a classic, romantic Rajasthani fort Palace overlooking a serene lake and surrounded by rugged hills. Built in pale yellow and pink sandstone, this magnificent structure showcases a perfect fusion of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. The rugged, time-ravaged walls of the Fort may not look beautiful from the outside but inside the graceful courtyards, mirrored halls and beautifully decorated chambers reflect the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past. Each morning, a religious ceremony takes place in the sacred Kal Temple.

In the afternoon, take a walk through the lively “Pink City”. In the streets, cows, elephants, bicycles and taxis meet amid a cacophony of horns. You will pass by the famous Hawa Mahal (House of Wind) and later visit the City Palace and the Jantar Mantar observatory.

Enjoy an electric rickshaw ride through Jaipur’s legendary old markets. Since 1729, when Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II invited renowned trading families to settle here with generous concessions, Jaipur has thrived as a major hub of artisans, merchants, and vibrant bazaars.

Optional (additional cost): Cooking demonstration and dinner with a local family: Join a welcoming Jaipur family for an interactive cooking session and traditional dinner. Watch them prepare classic Rajasthani dishes using age-old recipes and aromatic local ingredients, learn the stories behind favourites like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi and then share a meal together—an intimate glimpse into Jaipur’s culinary traditions and hospitality.

Day 6: Jaipur – Pushkar

Enjoy a scenic drive through the rustic landscapes of Rajasthan to Pushkar, one of India’s most sacred towns. Set beside a tranquil lake and surrounded by desert hills, Pushkar is renowned for its spiritual atmosphere, vibrant local life and is one of the most sacred Hindu places in India that is famous for its annual camel fair.

On arrival, explore the Brahma Temple (also known as Jagatpita Brahma Mandir or Pushkar Temple), one of the few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma. This city has hundreds of places to worship, but this is the most worshipped shrine in Puskar that is also dedicated to Lord Brahma. Stroll around the holy Pushkar Lake, where pilgrims perform rituals along its ghats. The town’s colourful markets, with their handicrafts and textiles, offer a delightful cultural experience. Distance travelled 150km / Approx 3 hours.

Day 7: Pushkar – Jodhpur

Drive to Jodhpur today. Nestled at the foot of an enormous dark red sandstone fortress where many conquerors wore themselves out. Also known as the “blue city”, Jodhpur appears as a comforting oasis to travellers who have just crossed the Thar Desert. The old town is surrounded by a wall with seven gates, which was built in the mid-16th century around a perimeter of nearly 10 km to protect it from the sand.

Visit Mehrangarh Fort, made from red sandstone and standing high in the Jodhpur skyline on a hilltop. This is the largest fort in India and is well preserved, containing a series of palaces, each decorated with carved stone lattice balconies and mirrored walls.

Jaswant Thada, the Clock Tower and the bustling Sardar Market, known for its spices, are other highlights of the city. Taste a refreshing ‘Lassi’, India’s beloved yogurt drink and live demonstration of how it’s made—from whisking fresh yogurt to blending in spices—then sample different varieties at a local market for an authentic flavour of this iconic beverage. Distance travelled 200km / Approx 4 hours.

Day 8: Jodhpur – Narlai

Drive to Narlai, passing through the picturesque Aravalli hills and rural Rajasthani landscapes. The route offers glimpses of local villages, mustard fields (seasonal), and traditional havelis scattered along the way.

Arrive at Rawla Narlai, a beautifully restored 17th-century heritage haveli transformed into a luxury hotel. The architecture reflects traditional Rajasthani craftsmanship, with courtyards, frescoed walls, and intricate jharokhas (windows). Take a guided stroll through the charming lanes of Narlai, lined with mud houses, small temples and local markets. Visit local craftsmen to see traditional pottery, textile work and leather crafts. Learn about rural Rajasthani life, festivals, farming techniques and customs.

Optional (additional expense): Jeep Safari in the Countryside: Set out on an exciting jeep safari through tribal villages and the scenic Aravalli hills. Depending on the season, you may spot leopards and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Enjoy panoramic views, rugged landscapes, and glimpses of ancient temples—an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Distance travelled 130km / Approx 3 hours.

Day 9: Narlai – Ranakpur – Udaipur

Drive to Ranakpur, passing acacia-lined roads, traditional water wheels and women carrying gleaming water pots. Hidden in the Aravalli hills, the magnificent Jain temples of Ranakpur exude a serene, almost mystical charm. The highlight is the 15th-century Adinath Temple, famed for its 1,444 intricately carved marble pillars—no two alike—and beautifully detailed ceilings spread across 29 halls.

Continue to Udaipur, a romantic lakeside city known for its narrow, lively streets lined with whitewashed houses, ornate balconies, and tiny decorative windows. As you enter, the charm of its old quarters, serene lakes, and regal palaces begins to unfold. Distance travelled 82km / Approx 1.5 hours.

Day 10: Udaipur

Visit the Udaipur City Palace, the 18th-century lakeside residence of Udaipur’s Maharajas, with its marble halls, ornate rooms, and courtyards. Then continue to Sahelion Ki Bari, the serene “Garden of the Maidens,” known for its graceful fountains and peaceful charm. Visit a silk painting centre specializing in miniatures: Artists use very fine brushes and natural pigments to create precise details on fragile fabric, each step requires patience and skill.

In the late afternoon (water levels permitting), enjoy a serene mini-cruise on Lake Pichola. Watch the City Palace glow in the sunset, glide past ghats and temples, and circle the beautiful Jag Mandir Island before returning to the pier.

Optional (additional cost): Take a charming 45-minute vintage car ride, gliding past serene lakes, royal palaces and vibrant old-city lanes. This unique experience blends heritage and luxury as you travel in a classic car once favored by royalty. Feel the nostalgia of a bygone era while capturing stunning views of iconic landmarks.

In the evening, you will visit Bagore Ki Haveli, an 18th-century haveli on the shores of Lake Pichola. Illuminated by a thousand lights, this is a magical setting for a show of traditional Rajasthani dance and music. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the history and lifestyle of the ancient Rajput royalty.

Day 11: Depart Udaipur, India

Today your journey through northern India comes to an end.  You will be transferred to Udaipur airport for your onward flight.

We have a number of other sample India itineraries, or we can also tailor a trip for you:

India North to South – 12 Days  Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Cochin & Kerala

Highlights of India – 11 Days  Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Goa, Mumbai

Ancient India – 10 Days  Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Orchha, Khajuraho, Varanasi

India Culture & Wildlife – 8 Days  Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur

India’s Golden Triangle – 6 Days  Delhi, Agra & Jaipur