Indian Rail Adventure
Summary
Perfect as an introduction to India with iconic sights such as the Taj Mahal, Ranthambore National Park, the spiritual centre of Varanasi and the unique Kama Sutra temples at Khajuraho. This 11-day rail adventure, aboard the luxury Maharajas' Express, is an ideal tour for first-time travellers who want to explore the enchanting sites of India without relinquishing their creature comforts or having the hassle of constantly unpacking their suitcase.
Duration |
11 Days
Price
From £4,620.00 per person based on 2 people sharing [Guide Price*]Best time to go
India is a vast country with distinct weather patterns in each region. October to March is the best time to plan your visit, particularly for festivals. October and November is Diwali, March is Holi, and November is Pushkar.
Day 1: UK departure
Overnight flight to Delhi.
Day 2: Imperial Hotel, Delhi (BB)
On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel and, after settling in to your hotel, you can enjoy an afternoon guided tour of New Delhi.
Day 3: Maharajas' Express: Delhi - Jaipur (FB)
Old Delhi calls this morning, as your local guide shows you the narrow winding streets enjoy a rickshaw ride. Early evening transfer to the station and board the opulent Maharajas' Express train for the luxury seven night round trip journey, departing at 10pm. In addition to the modern, air-conditioned and en-suite cabins, butler service is offered and sightseeing excursions, meals and drinks (restrictions apply) are included.
Day 4: Maharajas' Express: Jaipur (FB)
After breakfast today you arrive into the Pink City of Jaipur. Enjoy an excursion to the Amber Fort followed by an enthralling exhibition Elephant Polo match. After champagne lunch at City Palace visit the Sawai Mansing II Museum within the City Palace Complex. On return to the train you can sit back and relax or partake in optional activities on offer including making use of spa facilities at a 5-star hotel, private shopping tour, golf at Rambagh Golf Club or visit Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal and Birla Temple.
Day 5: Maharajas' Express: Ranthambhore (FB)
This morning you arrive at Sawai Madhopur Railway Station and embark on an exciting game drive into Ranthambore National Park in search of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. The park is also home to sambar, chital, nilgai, chinkara, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, jackal and leopard so you are sure to get your fill of wildlife before returning to the train for brunch. Continue onwards to Fatehpur Sikri where you enjoy an excursion to the deserted Mughal City with its imposing gateways, exquisitely sculptured palaces and Halls of Private and Public audience. A special Indian evening and dinner await you on your return to the train..
Day 6: Maharajas' Express: Agra – Gwalior (FB)
After arriving in Agra, you disembark to enjoy an early morning visit to one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. This is an architectural masterpiece, constructed entirely out of white marble, with beautiful inlay work and marble screens. Enjoy a champagne breakfast at Taj Khema overlooking the Taj Mahal, before returning to the train for your onward journey to Gwalior. After enjoying lunch onboard the train, you venture out to visit the magnificent Gwalior Fort and the temples and palaces, including the spectacular Man Mandir Palace. High Tea is served at the opulent Jai Vilas, Palace after a visit to the Palace Museum, a section of which is still the residence of the Royal family of Gwalior. Return to the train for your onward journey.
Day 7: Maharajas' Express: Orchha – Khajuraho (FB)
After breakfast this morning you disembark to visit Jahangir Mahal, an excellent example of Rajput Bundela architecture in Orchha before returning to the train to continue to the UNESCO World Heritage temples of Khajuraho. Built between 950 and 1050AD these temples are superb examples of Indo-Aryan architecture. Intricate and unique in their design, you will be amazed at their beauty and craftsmanship. Return to the train for your dinner and onward journey.
Day 8: Maharajas' Express: Varanasi (FB)
The Holy City of Varanasi is one of the top highlights of any visit to India. Arriving just after midday, you disembark and enjoy a quick visit to the Varanasi Silk Weaving Centre with its world famous Banarasi silk saris and brocades. After lunch at the Taj Gateway Hotel, the tour takes in the ancient ruins of Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. You return to the city for a scenic cruise on the sacred Ganges to witness the religious Aarti ritual being performed on the Ghats. Return to the train for dinner and onward journey.
Day 9: Maharajas' Express - Lucknow (FB)
Today you arrive in the City of Nawabs, Lucknow just after breakfast. Enjoy a tour of the city to include a visit to the Bara Imambara, considered to be the largest vaulted apartment in the world consisting of ornamental gateways, corridors and galleries, the ornamented gateway of the Rumi Darwaza and the historical The Residency before returning to the train for lunch. The afternoon is a leisure. In the evening you enjoy a dinner at the residence of Raja of Jehangriabad before returning to the train for your return journey to Delhi.
Day 10: Imperial Hotel Delhi (BB)
After breakfast this morning you arrive in Delhi, where you are met and transferred to The Imperial Hotel to stay overnight.
Day 11: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your daytime flight to the UK.
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These itineraries are just samples of what we have already done for our guests. Speak to one of our travel experts to create your perfect holiday based on your travel requirements.
* This is a guide price, based on travel in low season