THE HERITAGE AND FLAVOURS
Hotels
- Maidens
- Imperial
- The Oberoi
Activities
Stay at Delhi’s finest heritage luxury hotels.
Private exploration of Delhi’s iconic Mughal monuments.
Curated Old Delhi walking tour with gourmet tastings.
Explore Chandni Chowk spice markets and historic alleys.
Concierge Services
VIP airport handling
Private chauffeurs
English-speaking expert guides
Smooth intercity transfers
Personal concierge support
Hotels
- The Lalit Temple View
Activities
Private exploration of UNESCO Khajuraho temple masterpieces.
Luxury stay at Lalit Temple View overlooking temples.
Exclusive wildlife safari in Panna National Park.
Track tigers, leopards, and diverse wilderness species.
Concierge Services
VIP airport handling
Private chauffeurs
English-speaking expert guides
Smooth intercity transfers
Personal concierge support
Hotels
- Suryaudaya Haveli
- Brijrama Palace
- Vivanta by taj
Activities
Private sunrise boat cruise along sacred Ganges ghats.
Witness the mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Guided exploration of Varanasi’s temples and bazaars.
Excursion to sacred Buddhist site of Sarnath.
Concierge Services
VIP airport handling
Private chauffeurs
English-speaking expert guides
Smooth intercity transfers
Personal concierge support
Hotels
- Saraca Lucknow
- Taj Mahal
Activities
Private exploration of Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza.
Curated Awadhi cooking experience with master chefs.
Exclusive tasting tour of Lucknow’s legendary cuisine.
Explore historic bazaars and Chikankari artisan lanes.
Concierge Services
VIP airport handling
Private chauffeurs
English-speaking expert guides
Smooth intercity transfers
Personal concierge support
Highlights
Cities Covered
Delhi – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Lucknow
Best Time To Visit
October – march
Activity Level
Moderate
- 5-star accommodation
- Flexible – extensions, room & flight upgrades
-
Express train travel in air conditioned executive class
-
Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
- Experienced local tour manager
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Arrive in Delhi, India’s captivating capital where centuries of empire and culture converge. You are welcomed on arrival and privately transferred to your hotel, a refined heritage retreat offering tranquil gardens and timeless colonial charm.
Late afternoon, step into the vibrant world of Old Delhi on a privately guided walking exploration through its historic lanes. Discover bustling bazaars, fragrant spice markets, and hidden culinary gems while sampling iconic street delicacies including chaat, kebabs, and traditional sweets.
As lanterns illuminate the narrow alleys, experience the intoxicating energy of this historic quarter before returning to your hotel for dinner.
Hotels
The Imperial
Thoughtfully crafted for the modern-day traveller, Luxury Suites beautifully marry Lutyens’ architecture with contemporary sophistication
The Oberoi
a prestigious 5-star luxury hotel in Delhi, blending elegant Lutyens-inspired design with modern comfort, overlooking Humayun’s Tomb and Delhi Golf Club.
Maiden Hotel
Thoughtfully crafted for the modern-day traveller, Luxury Suites beautifully marry Lutyens’ architecture with contemporary sophistication
Day 2: Delhi: Heritage & Culinary Traditions
Begin the day with an optional private yoga session in the hotel gardens, followed by breakfast.
Today’s exploration reveals Delhi’s remarkable contrasts. Discover the architectural legacy of the Mughal Empire and British Raj, visiting landmarks including Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Jama Masjid, and India Gate. Drive through the grand ceremonial avenues designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, passing the Presidential Palace and Parliament buildings.
Later wander through the lively markets of Chandni Chowk before visiting the serene Lotus Temple.
This evening enjoy a private home-hosted cooking experience, where a local family introduces you to traditional recipes and regional culinary traditions before sharing an intimate dinner together.
Hotels
The Imperial
Thoughtfully crafted for the modern-day traveller, Luxury Suites beautifully marry Lutyens’ architecture with contemporary sophistication
The Oberoi
a prestigious 5-star luxury hotel in Delhi, blending elegant Lutyens-inspired design with modern comfort, overlooking Humayun’s Tomb and Delhi Golf Club.
Maiden Hotel
Thoughtfully crafted for the modern-day traveller, Luxury Suites beautifully marry Lutyens’ architecture with contemporary sophistication
Day 3: Delhi to Khajuraho
This morning fly to Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage destination celebrated for its extraordinary temple architecture.
Built between the 9th and 11th centuries by the Chandela dynasty, these temples represent one of India’s most remarkable artistic achievements. Their intricate stone carvings depict mythology, devotion, music, dance, and the rhythms of daily life.
In the afternoon explore the Western and Eastern temple complexes with your private guide, admiring the extraordinary sculptural detail and architectural harmony set against serene gardens.
Your residence, The Lalit Temple View, enjoys spectacular vistas overlooking these ancient monuments, offering a peaceful retreat immersed in history.
Hotels
The Lalit Temple View
a luxurious stay overlooking Khajuraho’s iconic temples. Combining elegant design with modern comforts, it provides serene views, refined dining, and a tranquil atmosphere
Day 4: Panna National Park & Varanasi
Early this morning travel to Panna National Park for a thrilling wildlife experience.
Accompanied by expert naturalists, venture into forests and river valleys where wildlife thrives. The park is home to tigers, leopards, sloth bears, antelope, and diverse birdlife, offering an exhilarating contrast to the cultural landscapes of Khajuraho.
Later transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
This evening witness the extraordinary Ganga Aarti ceremony along the sacred riverbanks. Priests perform ancient rituals with fire lamps, incense, and chanting while thousands gather along the ghats, creating an atmosphere of profound spirituality.
Hotels
Taj Ganges
A rare retreat in one of the world’s busiest and holiest pilgrimage cities. Just five kilometres from the Ganges, the palace was built in 1782.
Suryaudai Haveli
a heritage hotel offering traditional Indian architecture, serene courtyards, warm hospitality, and an authentic cultural experience near the sacred Ganges.
Brijrama Palace
a historic heritage hotel offering elegant accommodations, traditional Indian architecture, river views, and a blend of cultural charm with modern comforts.
Day 5: Varanasi & Sarnath
Before sunrise embark on a private boat journey along the Ganges, one of India’s most evocative experiences.
As the first light illuminates the ghats, witness pilgrims performing sacred rituals, priests offering prayers, and the timeless rhythms of life unfolding along the river.
Later explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi’s ancient city, visiting temples, vibrant markets, and historic neighborhoods alive with tradition.
In the afternoon travel to nearby Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon over 2,500 years ago. Explore the tranquil ruins, monasteries, and the Ashokan pillar that mark this profound spiritual site.
This evening enjoy another private culinary experience, learning regional recipes before sharing dinner with your hosts.
Hotels
Taj Ganges
A rare retreat in one of the world’s busiest and holiest pilgrimage cities. Just five kilometres from the Ganges, the palace was built in 1782.
Suryaudai Haveli
a heritage hotel offering traditional Indian architecture, serene courtyards, warm hospitality, and an authentic cultural experience near the sacred Ganges.
Brijrama Palace
a historic heritage hotel offering elegant accommodations, traditional Indian architecture, river views, and a blend of cultural charm with modern comforts.
Day 6: Varanasi to Lucknow
Begin the day with a gentle morning yoga session before departing by road to Lucknow, capital of Uttar Pradesh and once the seat of the refined Nawabs.
Renowned for its poetic culture and extraordinary cuisine, Lucknow embodies a legacy of elegance and hospitality.
After arriving, settle into your hotel before enjoying an exclusive culinary encounter with a local chef. Learn the secrets of classic Awadhi cuisine, famous for its aromatic spices, slow-cooked dishes, and royal culinary traditions.
Dinner showcases these exquisite flavors in an intimate setting.
Hotels
Saraca Lucknow
a luxury heritage boutique hotel in central Lucknow, blending elegant Art‑Deco architecture with modern comfort.
Taj Mahal
A luxurious hotel offering elegant rooms, modern amenities, exceptional service, and a convenient base to explore the city.
Day 7: Lucknow: Nawabi Heritage
Today explore the architectural grandeur of Lucknow, where Mughal and colonial influences blend with the elegance of the Nawabi era.
Visit the magnificent Bara Imambara, famed for its labyrinthine corridors, and the monumental Rumi Darwaza, one of India’s most iconic gateways.
Wander through bustling bazaars filled with Chikankari embroidery, perfumes, and artisanal crafts, reflecting the city’s rich artistic heritage.
Later enjoy a private home-hosted cooking experience, where a local family introduces the refined culinary traditions that have made Lucknow one of India’s great gastronomic capitals.
Hotels
Saraca Lucknow
a luxury heritage boutique hotel in central Lucknow, blending elegant Art‑Deco architecture with modern comfort.
Taj Mahal
A luxurious hotel offering elegant rooms, modern amenities, exceptional service, and a convenient base to explore the city.
Day 8: Lucknow: Markets & Street Food
Today is at leisure to enjoy the relaxed elegance of your hotel or continue exploring the city.
In the afternoon experience an extraordinary guided culinary walk through Lucknow’s historic markets. Discover the legendary flavors that define Awadhi cuisine — from melt-in-the-mouth Galouti kebabs to aromatic biryanis and traditional sweets.
Your guide introduces the city’s most celebrated culinary institutions including Tunday Kebabs, Aminabad street stalls, Chowk dessert shops, and artisan lanes famous for Chikankari embroidery.
This immersive journey reveals why Lucknow is considered one of India’s great culinary capitals.
Hotels
Saraca Lucknow
a luxury heritage boutique hotel in central Lucknow, blending elegant Art‑Deco architecture with modern comfort.
Taj Mahal
A luxurious hotel offering elegant rooms, modern amenities, exceptional service, and a convenient base to explore the city.
Day 9: Lucknow to Delhi
Fly to Delhi and transfer to your hotel for a final evening in India’s vibrant capital.
The afternoon is yours to relax or explore Delhi’s elegant shopping districts and artisan markets, ideal for discovering fine textiles, jewelry, and handcrafted souvenirs.
This evening gather for a farewell dinner celebrating the remarkable cultures, flavors, and sacred landscapes encountered throughout your journey.
Hotels
Taj Palace
A luxurious five-star hotel offering elegant rooms, world-class dining, and impeccable service. Centrally located, it provides a serene retreat while giving easy access to Delhi’s iconic attractions and vibrant culture.
Day 10: Delhi / Departure
After breakfast, transfer privately to Delhi International Airport for your onward flight.
Your journey concludes with unforgettable memories of India’s sacred cities, artistic heritage, and extraordinary culinary traditions.
Contact an India specialist
The specialist who designs your trip to India will have explored the country many times and, in some cases, lived there. Their first-hand knowledge gives us the belief that no other travel company can match our expertise in helping you plan your trip.
When To go
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What They're Saying
Susan Kind
United Kingdom, Tailor made Tiger Safari tour
We are home now after our wonderful tiger safari holiday. We were very pleased with all the aspects of the arrangements. The hotels, the drivers and the care you took to make sure it all went smoothly – everything was excellent.
Kim OppenHeim
Switzerland, Tailor made Kerala Group Tour
My husband and I, along with our 2 daughters and a group of 5 students from the international high-school where we teach in Switzerland, just returned from a two-week tour of Kerala organized by Newton Singh at Royal India Holidays.
Hannah Oustroumoff
United Kingdom, Tailor made tour of North India
The itinerary as perfect, two nights in each and 1 night in Pushkar gave us enough time to see the interesting sites and places and gave us enough time to relax.