Depart your home country on your flight to Delhi.
Most suited for
Couples, Families
Ideal time to visit
December- May
Take your time to explore this lesser-visited state of India and be wowed by incredible history, architecture, national parks before relaxing on the sacred Narmada River at Maheshwar.
On this journey, you’ll travel overland by trains as well as with your driver to maximise the on-the-ground experience. You’ll get away from the well-trodden tourist trail with this itinerary.
A Journey through Madhya Pradesh
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
Day 2
Delhi
On arrival, you will be welcomed to India by your private driver and whisked to your hotel in the heart of the city. In the late afternoon, set off on a short tour of New Delhi to get your bearings with your guide and see some of the classic sites like the India Gate and the President’s house.
Day 3
Delhi
This morning, you’ll get a brilliant, unusual glimpse of Delhi through the eyes of someone who knows its streets like the back of their hand (quite literally). Your guide is a former street kid now working with the Salaam Baalak Trust, and they’ll take you on a genuinely eye-opening (and often funny) tour of the area they once called home. Even better, the cost of the tour goes straight to the Trust to support their work with other children still living on the streets.
Days 4 - 5
Train to Gwalior
This morning, your driver will take you to the train station and see you aboard the Shatabdi Express, to begin your four-hour journey to Gwalior. Travelling by train is an integral part of Indian life and no holiday in India is complete without one. On arrival, you will be transferred to a former palace for your overnight stay. The driver will meet you with your luggage a bit later.
The next day, you’ll explore the remote fort city of Gwalior, getting your first introduction to the way of life, history and idiosyncrasies of the Madhya Pradesh people.
The highlight is Gwalior Fort: a vast clifftop complex that’s been watching over the city for more than a thousand years. Your guide will tell you its stories and secrets.
Day 6
Orchha
Today, you’ll head towards Orchha, which takes around 4 hours by road.
En route, you’ll stop at the historic city of Jhansi, which has a beautiful fort on the banks of the Pahuj River.
In Orchha, you can explore this city with your guide, or by yourself, as your hotel – a lovely boutique heritage hotel with great views of majestic cenotaphs – is centrally located.
Day 7
Satpura via Bhopal
This morning, your driver will take you to Jhansi station, around 30 minutes away. Hop back on the Shatabdi Express to Bhopal. The train journey takes around three hours and offers another glimpse into the everyday rhythms of Indian travel.
From Bhopal, you’ll meet your driver and continue by road to the glorious Satpura National Park — one of central India’s best-kept secrets. It’s one of the few parks in the country that still sees relatively few visitors, which means more peace, more wildlife, and far fewer jeeps jostling for position. Bliss.
Days 8 - 9
Satpura National Park
Over the next few days, you’ll explore Satpura in all sorts of ways — from classic jeep safaris and tranquil early-morning canoe trips to walking safaris right in the heart of the park and night drives through the quieter buffer zones.
If you’re after something a bit more intrepid, there’s the option to camp and trek deep inside the park or spend a night in a no-frills lodge tucked up in the higher areas of the national park – a remote spot where tigers roam.
Want a dash of relaxation? We’d say stay longer – 4 to 7 nights if you can. Satpura is perfect for switching off, surrounded by serene wilderness and little villages.
Days 10 - 11
Bhopal
On day ten, you will make the three-hour journey back to Bhopal. On the way, you’ll stop at Bhimbetka caves, a famous site which shows some of the early signs of civilisation with 5,000-year-old cave paintings (yes, really).
Bhopal has a fascinating and eclectic history and is famous for having female rulers for over a century. Today, you’ll have a rare opportunity to explore the city with a historian who knows the city inside out and will open your eyes to stories not known by many.
You’ll stay in an old converted palace with lovely views over the lake.
Days 12 - 15
Maheshwar
Rise early this morning for your six-hour drive to Maheshwar. Don’t let the length of the journey put you off – the reward at the end is Ahilya Fort, easily one of the most beautiful and atmospheric hotels in all of India.
Over the next couple of days, slow things down a bit and soak in your magical surroundings. Take a sunset cruise on the river, wander the riverside ghats, or head out to explore the ruined city of Mandu.
On Day 15, you’ll set off on a two-hour drive to Indore to catch your flight to Mumbai. Once there, check in to your hotel for the next two nights — time to dive into the buzzing sights, sounds and flavours of India’s most dynamic city.
Day 16
Mumbai
Today, you’ll experience a city tour of Mumbai. Visit the main sites like the Gateway of India, take a boat cruise on the harbour and get lost in the Prince of Wales Museum. Your guide will help you sample local street food if you’re feeling adventurous!
Day 17
Fly home
Today, it’s sadly time to wave goodbye to India. Your driver will drop you off at the airport for your flight back home.
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
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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 shows you a side of India that few travellers get to see. I love how it combines the rich history of Gwalior and Orchha, the special wildlife experiences in Satpura, and the amazing Ahilya Fort on the Narmada River.”
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.
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Mumbai, India
Abode Bombay
Tucked away in Mumbai’s vibrant Colaba district, Abode is a boutique hotel with flair. Blending vintage elegance with contemporary style, it captures the energy and creative pulse of the city. Expect retro Indian design, local artwork, and an atmosphere that feels both curated and casual.
Highlights
Highlights
Great location,
Casual but curated atmosphere
Best for
Couples,
Solo
Gallery
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Maheshwar, India
Ahilya Fort
Perched high above the ghats of the River Narmada, Ahilya Fort is a rare gem in rural Madhya Pradesh. Once the palace of the legendary Ahilya Bai Holkar, it’s now a boutique retreat rich in history and charm. With panoramic river views, peaceful courtyards, and warm village integration, the fort offers a timeless escape.
Highlights
Highlights
Magical setting,
Maheshwar Ghats right below
Best for
Couples
Solo
Gallery
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Madhya Pradesh, India
Amar Mahal
Set in the quiet riverside town of Orchha, Amar Mahal is a peaceful retreat with views of the town’s ancient temples and palaces. With a relaxed atmosphere, a central pool, and rooftop dining overlooking centuries-old monuments, this hotel offers a simple yet scenic base for exploring one of Madhya Pradesh’s hidden gems.
Highlights
Highlights
Heritage setting,
Rooftop views
Best for
Couples
Gallery
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Madyha Pradesh, India
Jehan Numa Palace
Set on the verdant slopes of Shamla Hill, Jehan Numa Palace is a grand 19th-century residence turned hotel. With classical architecture, expansive grounds, and a sought-after location near Bhopal’s lake and city centre, it offers an elegant base for exploring central India’s hidden treasures.
Highlights
Highlights
Historic architecture,
Ideal sightseeing base
Best for
Couples,
Families,
History Buffs
Gallery
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Madhya Pradesh, India
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Reni Pani Jungle Lodge sits on the edge of Satpura National Park, offering immersive safaris and a deep connection to nature. Tucked within 30 acres of pristine forest, this characterful lodge is run by passionate conservationists and brings guests close to the wildlife that makes this region so special—without compromising on comfort.
Highlights
Highlights
Safaris,
Forest views,
Peaceful setting
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Wildlife Enthusiasts
Gallery
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Delhi, India
The Claridges
Set among leafy avenues in one of New Delhi’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, The Claridges blends classic elegance with contemporary comforts. Built in 1952 and recently renovated, it offers a refined atmosphere with a pool, gardens, and easy access to the capital’s key cultural and commercial sights.
Highlights
Highlights
Historic charm,
Central location,
Elegant garden setting
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Business Travellers
Gallery
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.
Experiences in India
Crafting bespoke packages is the heart of what we do. Each holiday is specially designed to confound preconceptions and share magical, memorable, and truly exceptional experiences.
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Uttar Pradesh, India
Temples, Ghats & Wildlife in the Chambal Valley
The calm waters of the Chambal River are best explored by boat and a river safari provides a great opportunity to view the wildlife. The Chambal Safari boatmen are exceptionally skilled at manoeuvring as close to the birds and animals as possible without disturbing them, and the trained naturalists who accompany you will provide expert information about everything that you see. Opportunities to go on Crane and blackbuck safaris are also available in this beautiful, remote region.
Alternatively the ancient temple complex at Bateshwar on the river Yamuna, 10 km from the Chambal Safari Lodge, consists of more than a hundred temples dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. The ravines surrounding the temples and river are home to a number of Naga sadhus (snake worshipping ascetics) who have carved out little caves and temples within the mud walls. The local Ghats and aarti ceremonies provide a calmer and quieter experience to that of frenetic Varanasi too.
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Delhi, India
Old Delhi Street Food Tour
Take a street food tour of Old Delhi, negotiating the noisy labyrinthine lanes of Chawri Bazaar and Chandni Chowk by cycle rickshaw. Visit selected food stalls to sample the myriad of dishes on offer such as thick and juicy jalebis; aloo chaat crispy fried potato cutlets dipped in chutneys; and parantha flatbreads generously stuffed with vegetables, spices or even dried fruits. For dessert, try the deliciously creamy phirni which is served in earthenware pots, and end your walk with an exotic fruit-flavoured Kulfi ice cream. This is a wonderful chance not only to experience some true culinary delights but also to go behind the scenes and meet some of the chefs, bakers and families who have been providing fabulous food here for generations.
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Madhya Pradesh, India
Gwalior Fort
This massive fort, 3km in length, has dominated Gwalior since it was built in the 15th century and to this day can be seen from every point in the city.
Long regarded as the most impregnable of central India’s impressive array of Imposing forts, Gwalior Fort was built at a vantage point 100m above the rest of the city and has huge thick sandstone walls, enclosing the palace within.
Emperor Babar who was inspired by this imposing structure described it “the pearl amongst the fortresses of Hind.” To see whether you agree with the great emperor, your local guide will bring the magnificent fort to life, with some telling anecdotes and a cunning route around the fort.
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Madhya Pradesh, India
Satpura National Park Safari
If you enjoy visiting wildlife sanctuaries without the crowds, Satpura National Park, deep in Madhya Pradesh, is a great option. It’s very much the wildlife connoisseur’s choice: access is not easy, and there are only a few accommodation options (though they are very good!).
Satpura is the only park in India where a variety of safari options are available. In addition to the usual Jeep safari, canoeing and boating safaris are also possible, as are walking safaris through the core area of the park. This, combined with the fact that the park attracts very few other visitors, means that you’ll get a much richer and more immersive wildlife experience.
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Madhya Pradesh, India
Bhopal Heritage Walk
It is always said that the best way to get under the skin of a city is to spend time with a knowledgeable local. Our signature Bhopal experience is guided by a man obsessed with the city of lakes and its proud history and keen to demonstrate that there is so much to the city than the legacy of the great industrial disaster which wreaked havoc here.
Absorb the typical Bhopali way of life as you wander around and visit the old monuments with your guide. It’s a great way to discover the unique heritage of this fascinating city.
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.
