14 days Classic Group Tour
Our India by Rail tour will see you exploring the most iconic sites, delving into deep-rooted culture and dining on delicious cuisine and thoroughly researched to bring you a range of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, many of which are entirely exclusive to us.
Explore Amber Fort in Jaipur
Take a cruise on India’s holiest river, the Ganges
Admire the Taj Mahal at sunrise
Marvel at the Golden Temple in Amritsar
Experience the electric atmosphere created by the flickering candles and tinkling bells of a puja held on the banks of the River Ganges, a ceremony dedicated to the river goddess.
Travel to the border of India and Pakistan to witness the border closing ceremony, a display of fantastically over the top showmanship that involves speed marching, high kicks and stomps, all cheered on by the crowd of locals and tourists alike.
Journey from Shimla to Kandaghat aboard a charming toy train. Enjoy truly breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and scenic valleys as you explore the enchanting region of Shimla.
Upon your arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, you will be met and transferred with other group members who may be arriving at a similar time 45 minutes to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy time leisure before meeting your fellow travelers for dinner. Early check-in is not included. Additional nights’ before and after your tour can be arranged. Please contact our Reservations team to book.
After breakfast drop your luggage at the concierge. Drive by the iconic Red Fort, followed by a delightful rickshaw journey to the vibrant Khari Baoli Spice Market, before visiting the majestic Jama Masjid. Touring today will last approximately 3.5 hours. Later, board the 1 hour 15 minutes evening flight to Amritsar. On arrival in Amritsar, you will be transferred to the hotel.
In the morning begin by immersing yourself in the historical significance of Jallianwala Bagh. This solemn memorial stands as a testament to a pivotal moment in Indian history, a place where you can reflect on the sacrifices made during a tragic event. Next you visit the resplendent Golden Temple, with its’ intricate architecture and melodious hymns echoing through the halls. Venture towards the ornate Durgiana Temple, known for its intricate artwork and sacred aura. Here, you can explore the rich tapestry of Hindu culture and spirituality. Continue 1 hour towards the Wagah border, a place where two nations come together in a display of patriotic fervor. Today’s sightseeing will be approximately 5 hours. Due to security regulations, the coach will drop your group at a designated area where you will need to walk approximately 20 minutes to the border to view the ceremony. You will be required to walk back after the ceremony.
Rise early this morning (depart approx. 04h20) for the 4 hour 30 minute Chandigarh Express train to Chandigarh, having breakfast onboard before arriving at 09:40. From here drive 3.5 - 4 hours through lush landscapes to the hill station of Shimla. Check into your hotel and proceed to lunch. This afternoon, venture into Shimla's heart with a leisurely walking tour along the famous Mall Road. Stroll along The Ridge, where panoramic views of the surrounding mountains greet you. Pause at the historic Christ Church, an architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to the town's colonial heritage and conclude the day with a visit to the New Library, an intellectual haven where you can immerse yourself in literature and history. You will spend approximately 1.5 hours sightseeing on foot today.
Embark on a charming adventure as you board the iconic Himalayan Queen toy train for a picturesque 1 hour journey from Shimla to Shogi. Return to Shimla on a 1 hour drive. In the afternoon, delve into the cultural heritage of this hill station, with a city tour. Begin with a visit to the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, a grand colonial-era structure nestled amidst tranquil gardens. Continue your exploration at the Himachal State Museum, where you will discover a treasure trove of artifacts, art, and cultural insights into the region's rich heritage. You will spend approximately 1.5 hours sightseeing on foot today.
After an early breakfast (depart approx. 07h30), transfer approx. 3.5 – 4 hours to Chandigarh Railway station to board the Shatabdi Express train to Delhi. This journey takes 3 hours 20 minutes and lunch will be served onboard. On arrival in Delhi, check-in and relax before dinner.
Have breakfast onboard the Shatabdi Express, as you depart (approx. 05h00) on a 4 hour 35 minute train journey to Jaipur. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a delicious lunch before checking into your hotel. This afternoon visit two of the city’s top attractions. Explore the majestic Maharaja’s City Palace, which still serves as the residence of the city’s royal family. Afterwards, go on to marvel at the fascinating Jantar Mantar Observatory, an awe-inspiring collection of astronomical instruments from the 18th century. Please note, sightseeing at Maharaja’s City Palace will take approximately 2 hours on foot and will involve navigating steps.
Today starts with a photo stop at at the iconic Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of Winds. You'll view this magnificent work of architecture from the bustling road opposite. Next, venture to the majestic Amber Fort, an imposing hilltop fortress that narrates tales of Rajput valor and grandeur. Please note that the sightseeing inside the fort will take approximately 2 hours on foot and involves several steps. Round off the day visiting a craft centre where you will witness the traditional arts of block printing and carpet weaving.
After breakfast drive approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes to Agra, stopping en route at Fatehpur Sikri, an ancient city frozen in time. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts magnificent architecture, including the Buland Darwaza and the stunning Jama Masjid, with regal palaces and courtyards to explore. Sightseeing today involves up to 1 hour and 30 minutes in foot. Continue your journey to Agra and check into your hotel before dinner tonight.
Today begins with a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal, a marvel of white marble and eternal love. Please note, admission to the main mausoleum area, requires all visitors to wear shoe covers (this may be provided on site, however please be prepared to bring an additional pair of socks). Please also note, there are 22 steps leading up to the entrance of the main Mausoleum and some smaller steps at the gate and pathways. Sightseeing here will take up to 2 hours. Afterwards, go on to visit a marble inlay workshop to see skilled artisans demonstrate their craftsmanship, creating exquisite designs that adorn the Taj Mahal and other Mughal masterpieces. It's a chance to appreciate the dedication and precision that goes into every piece of art. In the afternoon, explore the majestic Agra Fort, an imposing fortress, with red sandstone walls, concealing a wealth of Mughal history within its ramparts. Wander through the opulent palaces, admire the intricate design work, and stand where emperors once stood, gazing out at the breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal in the distance. Sightseeing at the fort involves approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes on foot with several steps. This evening, enjoy a live musical drama, “Mohabbat the Taj”, a show depicting the romantic love story of Emperor Shahjahan and his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This is a true Bollywood experience.
Enjoy your last train journey, departing in the early morning (approx. 05h00) on the Vande Bhart Express bound for Varanasi, having breakfast and lunch onboard. This is a 7-hour journey and upon arrival, prepare for an enchanting evening as you step into the bustling streets for a rickshaw ride, taking you through the ancient lanes and alleys to the banks of the revered River Ganges. Here you will experience the mesmerizing and deeply spiritual Pooja ceremony of Ganga Aarti. As you watch the priests perform intricate rituals with oil lamps, incense, and chants, you will witness a sacred connection between humanity and the divine. You will spend approximately 2 hours sightseeing on foot today. Please note: The Ganga Aarti takes place most evenings, so please be prepared for many crowds through the streets, especially leading up to the ghats. Please remember to wear closed shoes and to always be careful and mindful of your belongings. It is also important to watch where you step, as devotees, crowds of tourists, animals and rickshaws all head in the same direction of the ghats.
Set sail on a cruise along the sacred Ganges River to view the ghats at sunrise, before visiting the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. Continue to Durga Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to the fierce goddess Durga. The next leg of your tour takes you to the prestigious Banaras Hindu University, where within its sprawling campus, you'll find the renowned Vishwanath Temple, a sacred place of worship that attracts devotees from all corners of the country. This afternoon, shift your focus to the historical and spiritual richness of Sarnath, exploring the Buddhist sites that include the ancient Dhamek Stupa, the Mulagandhakuti Vihara, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum before dinner. You will spend approximately 5 hours sightseeing today.
Enjoy some free time in Varanasi before boarding your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, you will visit the impressive Qutab Minar complex before driving by the grand Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of the President of India. Nearby, the Secretariat Buildings and Parliament House stand as monumental symbols of India's democratic governance. Next, pay a brief visit to India Gate, a war memorial honouring the sacrifices of Indian soldiers, before a farewell dinner tonight. Sightseeing this afternoon involves approximately 2-3 hours on foot.
Any time before your flight is at leisure. You will be transferred from your hotel to Indira Gandhi International Airport, according to the departure time of your international flight. Late check-out is not included. Additional night's before and after your tour can be arranged.
The best time to visit India is from November to March when you’ll enjoy pleasant warm dry days and low humidity.
We have a selection of dedicated departures for solo travellers. These departures feature a maximum group size of 18 and a single room throughout your tour.
Extend your holiday or break up your journey with one of our extensions and stopovers. Choose from city breaks or some beach time, or spend more time in your chosen destination.
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