Depart your home country on your flight to Delhi.
Most suited for
Couples
Ideal time to visit
December- May
This is a far cry from the tired old route that almost everyone takes through India’s Golden Triangle. We know that you’re not everyone. Veer off the tourist trail into the heartlands of Rajasthan to feel the true essence of timeless and, yes, incredible India.
You’ll still be able to experience the manic magic of Delhi, the warm pink hues of Jaipur and the magnificence of the Taj Mahal. But you’ll also experience so much more by staying in some of the country’s best heritage properties, brought to life by charismatic hosts. You’ll get the best of both worlds – and be amazed that the rest of the world doesn’t seem to be in on the secret. Shhh!
Regal Residences of Rajasthan
As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We will create a bespoke package which will be completely unique for you.
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Day 1
Your adventure begins
Days 2 - 3
Delhi
Arrive in India and transfer to your hotel in the heart of New Delhi. During your time in the city, there is time to take our signature tours that explore both Old and New Delhi. Experience the thrills of a rickshaw ride through the old quarter while sampling some of the city’s legendary dishes.
Days 4 - 5
Chambal
Journey from Delhi to Agra by train and arrive at the excellent Chambal Safari Lodge. Experience the exceptional hospitality while exploring the fascinating wildlife and cultural sites that sit on the lodge’s doorstep. Highlights of a stay here include a relaxing boat trip down the Chambal River and a sunrise or sunset visit to the temples and ghats of Bhateshwar with their colourful and vibrant poojas.
Day 6
Agra
It’s a short journey back to Agra to visit the renowned Taj Mahal Palace. It is one of the undisputed wonders of the world and a must-see for most visitors to India. Check-in at The Oberoi, just a 10-minute walk from the east gate of the palace.
Days 7 - 9
Jaipur
Head to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s mesmerising ‘Pink City’. Over two days, you’ll explore its vibrant streets on foot and by bike. Visit temples, mosques and churches, sip on a cup (or three) of the famous spiced chai, and catch the daily religious ceremonies that fill many temples with splendid sounds.
Days 10 - 11
Shapura Bagh
From the bustle of Jaipur, travel by road to the rural Palace of Shahpura Bagh (around a 4-hour drive). Part luxury hotel, part royal homestay; it’s the kind of experience only India can offer. Grand buildings, an illustrious history dating back twenty generations within one family and sumptuous food will ensure there is never a dull moment. Your hosts will take you under their wing and show you the challenges and treasures of inheriting such a majestic property while bringing the local town and region to life. For relaxation, look no further than the glorious swimming pool, the perfect antidote to the hot summer days. Dinner or drinks atop the local fort is a special experience that’ll stay etched in your memory long after you return home.
Days 12 - 13
Chanoud Garh
Saving the best till last? Perhaps… Chanoud Garh is another rural palace, lovingly restored to its former glory by the latest generation of its custodians. Learn the family’s fascinating history while having the honour of staying in this incredible property. Dine on the rooftop under the stars, explore the nooks and crannies of the palace and their fascinating details and stories, or take a jeep drive into the surrounding villages and countryside to get a unique insight into this region’s way of life.
Days 14 - 15
Udaipur
End your trip in Udaipur, ‘The Venice of the East’. Explore the city’s magnificent sites, including the iconic fort with its blue-walled houses and buildings.
Day 16
Fly home
Today you’ll transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Immersive India
A relaxed yet comprehensive introduction to India's many different shades, customs, history, beliefs, cuisine and societal strata. Meeting people from all walks of life and trying different foods. A well-thought-out tour offering a range of environments all backed up by fabulous hotels and supportive team.
Charles
24 October 2024Excellent
850 Reviews
850 Reviews
What’s included:
With ETG, what’s included goes well beyond the basics. From the moment your trip begins to your final farewell, the essentials are already taken care of, leaving you free to immerse, explore and enjoy without the hassle of hidden extras.
Here’s what comes as standard in all of our holidays:
All flights (unless you’ve booked your own!)
Expert guides and drivers
All accommodation
Many meals and snacks
Immersive experiences throughout
All regional transfers
Tips
24/7 In-Country support
Personal travel consultant throughout
Pricing:
As every holiday is bespoke, prices vary depending on destination, flights, hotel choices, inclusions and travel dates. We aim to include as much as possible upfront, so you know exactly where you are. As an approximate guide:
Bespoke Holidays £4,500 - £8,500pp
Bespoke Luxury Holidays £8,500 - £14,500pp
Bespoke Family Holidays from £4,000 - £7,500pp
Meet Our India Experts
With over a decade of experience, Sara knows how to blend India’s vibrant energy with luxurious, personalised touches. Her itineraries balance historic cities, serene countryside retreats, and cultural experiences that stay with you forever.
“This itinerary combines Rajasthan’s cultural treasures with some of India’s finest heritage stays. A fantastic way to explore India.”
Sara
Regional Expert
Explore Our Hotels & Villas
Wherever you go, and whatever you do, at the end of every day you can always be sure of a comfortable rest. Every location on our list of hotels is handpicked, and in its own way, shares the history, the hospitality, and the soul of the destination. Below are some examples of the different hotels we use.
The ETG Guarantee
We guarantee you an experience no one else has ever had.
The travel magic you’ll remember won’t be found on a well-trodden – or over-Instagrammed – itinerary. It will be the surprises, discoveries and secrets that you’ll uncover along the way with us.
Do you ever feel like people aren’t listening to you?
We get it. And we will – that’s a promise. Your holiday starts with with a proper, no-pressure call to understand what you want, what you don’t want, and what matters to you. From there, we create a completely unique adventure, inspired by our conversation together.
And because of our long-standing relationships with trusted partners across Asia, you’ll have access to experiences you can’t find on Google. The kind of special experiences that are literally impossible to find on your own.
Important FAQs about India
India is a place of contrasts and deep cultural richness, and travelling here with ETG ensures you experience it in a way that is authentic, seamless, and meaningful.
We craft holidays that go far beyond the typical tourist trail: think hand-picked boutique hotels, private guides with expert local knowledge, and immersive experiences that give you genuine insight into India’s diverse traditions and landscapes. From the calm of rural Rajasthan to the chaotic charm of Delhi, our holidays are designed to be both inspiring and stress-free, with 24/7 in-country support so you can focus on the magic of the moment.
India is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on the region and your interests. For most of northern India, the cooler, drier months from October to March are ideal for exploring cultural sites, cities, and wildlife reserves. The southern states, such as Kerala and Tamil Nadu, are also wonderful during these months, while the Himalayan regions are best visited in the warmer months from April to June. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, travelling in the shoulder seasons—September or April—can offer a great balance of pleasant weather and quieter
Every ETG holiday to India is designed to feel seamless, immersive and stress free. We’ll arrange international flights (if you’d like us to), your drivers and guides, and stays in characterful hotels we know and trust.
You’ll experience India in a way that’s completely bespoke to you – from quiet moments to big adventures – all planned by our India specialists. And while you’re away, our local team is on hand 24/7, so you’ll always feel well looked after.
The Curious Traveller’s Guide to India
Discover astounding wildlife, immersive culture and exciting adventure, all in one handy guide.
