Depart your home country on your flight to Delhi.
Most suited for
Couples, Families
Ideal time to visit
December- May
This itinerary idea takes in all the must-see sites of India’s Golden Triangle and beyond, such as Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur. You’ll also experience a change of pace and a glimpse at an older, more rural Rajasthan with its impossibly romantic desert forts, dramatic scenery and wildlife.
We’ve suggested mixing opulent city hotels, perfect for escaping the clamour outside, with peacefully charming but quirky heritage properties in converted Rajput residences, used for entertaining visitors from time immemorial.
Classic Rajasthan with the Taj Mahal
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 Delhi and transfer to your hotel in the heart of New Delhi. In the afternoon, you will take a short journey around New Delhi to ease into your trip. You’ll visit some of the key sights and a beautiful stepwell that is rarely visited. You’ll round up with a drink at the famous United Coffee House.
The following day, visit Nizamuddin, a 14th-century village in the heart of the city, with a guided walk led by the Hope Project. Enjoy lunch at Khan Market before taking some time to relax. In the evening, head to Old Delhi for a fascinating street food tour by cycle rickshaw.
Day 4
Agra and the Taj Mahal
Leave Delhi this morning on the train bound for Agra. On arrival, your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. After lunch and checking in, you will be able to visit the Taj Mahal, the premier iconic site in India and deservedly so.
Days 5 - 6
Jaipur
If you wish, you can rise early this morning and revisit the Taj Mahal at sunrise. After breakfast drive to Jaipur, a beautifully preserved, abandoned Mughal capital. Just outside of Jaipur, you have the option to stop and visit Abhaneri Stepwell, one of the most meticulously designed stepwells in all of India. On arrival in Jaipur, check into your hotel and relax.
The next day, explore the vibrant Pink City with a local guide, discovering its Mughal and Hindu heritage, spice markets, and pretty palaces and forts, including the famous Palace of the Winds.
Days 7 - 8
Fort Barli
A 3.5-hour drive takes you deep into the Rajasthani countryside and towards Fort Barli. The rural location should be a welcome respite from the hectic bustle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. The historic fort is now a hotel and will be your base here.
Your stay at Fort Barli will be like a home away from home, and you will be well looked after. Use it as a place to relax or take part in some of the hotel experiences on offer, such as trekking in the hills, walking around the local lake, interacting with the villagers, cycling around the countryside, or visiting ancient temples.
Days 9 - 11
Chanoud Garh
Today, you’ll travel to Chanoud Garh, a rural palace lovingly restored to its former glory by the latest generation of its custodians. While staying in this incredible property, you’ll learn the family’s fascinating history. Dine on the rooftop under the stars and explore the nooks and crannies of the palace and their fascinating details and stories.
From Chanoud Garh, a privately guided tour to Jodhpur is possible. Though it is quite far, the journey can be broken up with a jeep drive into the surrounding countryside to gain a unique insight into the Bishnoi people.
Jodhpur is Rajasthan’s second-largest city, nicknamed the “Blue City” after the many houses in the old town that are painted in various hues of blue. This incredible site is best seen from the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, the largest fort in Rajasthan, which looms over 100m above the city. There is time to stroll through the winding alleyways of the Old City and visit the numerous palaces, temples, and havelis scattered throughout.
Days 12 - 13
Udaipur
It’s a 4-5 journey to Udaipur, but this can be broken up with stops to visit temples and forts and take in the beauty of the Arivali Mountain Range. Arrive in the most romantic city in a state full of them: Udaipur set on Lake Pichola. You’ll start your stay here with a boat trip across the lake to best view the famous Taj Palace Lake Hotel (you can stay here, too, of course).
A full day exploring the sights and sounds of Udaipur, including the City Palace complex and the markets and bazaars of the old city.
Days 13 - 14
Mumbai
You’ll wave goodbye to your chauffeur today and transfer to the airport for your morning flight to Mumbai. Arrive and check in before exploring India’s most modern city. On your full day, you’ll take our exclusive ‘transport tour’ of Mumbai using an eclectic range of transport from the infamous black and yellow taxi, a local bus, and the commuter railway!
Day 15
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 suggested route is ideal for a first visit to India, combining the Taj Mahal, Jaipur and Udaipur with a taste of rural Rajasthan and local culture.”
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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Rajasthan, India
Chanoud Garh
Chanoud Garh is a lovingly restored 300-year-old palace offering a rich, personal slice of Rajasthani heritage. Situated in a peaceful rural village between Jodhpur and Udaipur, this family-run retreat combines grand architecture with heartfelt hospitality. You’ll be welcomed into the home of a former royal family, explore the desert landscapes, and stay in an atmospheric suite steeped in history.
Highlights
Highlights
Palace heritage,
Sunset jeep drives
Best for
Couples,
Heritage Enthusiasts,
Solos
Gallery
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Rajasthan, India
Fort Barli
Steeped in Rajput history and charm, Fort Barli is a 330-year-old heritage fort lovingly converted into a welcoming, family-run hotel. Set halfway between Jaipur and Jodhpur, this intimate property offers insight into traditional village life and a stay brimming with authentic character.
Highlights
Highlights
Historic fort stay,
Village views,
Heritage charm
Best for
Couples,
Solos,
Heritage Enthusiasts
Gallery
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Mumbai, India
Taj Mahal Palace
Overlooking the Arabian Sea beside Mumbai’s Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is one of India’s most iconic heritage properties. Built in 1903, its ornate blend of Moorish, Florentine and Oriental architecture makes a dramatic impression both inside and out. The palace wing is a celebration of regal Indian design, from Belgian chandeliers to historic tribal artefacts, while the newer tower wing provides a more contemporary experience. Service is refined, the atmosphere quietly luxurious, and the harbourfront location hard to beat.
Highlights
Highlights
Waterfront location,
Historic architecture,
Grand luxury
Best for
Families,
Couples,
Culture Seekers,
Business Travellers
Gallery
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Udaipur, India
The Leela Palace Udaipur
The Leela Palace Udaipur offers a striking blend of grandeur and comfort on the shores of Lake Pichola. With its unrivalled lake views, expansive design and high-end amenities, it’s one of the city’s most luxurious retreats.
Highlights
Highlights
Lakefront setting,
Panoramic views,
Modern luxury
Best for
Couples,
Families,
Honeymooners
Gallery
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Delhi, India
The Imperial New Delhi
Right in the heart of Connaught Place, The Imperial is one of Delhi’s most iconic hotels: a grand, colonial-era landmark full of stories. Its rich history, vibrant public spaces, and striking heritage architecture offer guests a classic yet energetic experience in India’s capital.
Highlights
Highlights
Colonial heritage,
Central Delhi location,
Fine dining
Best for
Couples,
Solos,
Culture Seekers
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.
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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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Rajasthan, India
Craft & Heritage Walk of Old Jaipur
Although most tourists visit Jaipur to view its incredible forts and palaces, there are many visitors who come to purchase some of the astonishing range of handicrafts for which the city is famous for producing.
On our exclusive and privately guided walking tour, explore the fascinating Old Quarter, where you will find most of the city’s master tradespeople. There is an incredible energy around this part of Jaipur as the locals and the incoming buyers take their shopping here extremely seriously. Walking around you will notice Indians who have been coming from far and wide to buy everything they need for their extravagant weddings.
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.
