DAY 1: DELHI, INDIA
Take some time to relax at The Oberoi New Delhi this afternoon before we celebrate the commencement of our grand journey during dinner.
Accommodation: The Oberoi New Delhi
DAY 2: DELHI, AGRA
During breakfast, we listen as a historian delivers a brief talk on Delhi. We then set out on a discovery of the city. Our drive takes us past Rashtrapati Bhavan, the presidential estate, as well as India Gate. Modelled on the Arc de Triomphe, the arch bears the names of 85,000 Indian Army soldiers who died during the campaigns of World War I. Arriving at the 17th-century Jama Masjid mosque, we see a grand structure comprising marble domes, towering minarets, and sweeping courtyards. A walking tour of Old Delhi then takes us along the colourful, vibrant streets of this historic metropolis. For a different perspective, join a cycle rickshaw ride across the labyrinth of alleyways within Chandni Chowk, the city’s sprawling marketplace. Close by, Asia’s largest spice market, Khari Baoli, leads us along its aisles, brimming with a vast array of spices and dried fruits. Relax during lunch at Haveli Dharampura, a revitalised 200-year-old mansion. This afternoon, we take the road south to Agra, where we check into the Oberoi Amarvilas. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner on the lawns of our hotel, as Kathak dancers perform for us.
Accommodation: Oberoi Amarvilas
DAY 3: AGRA
Having made the approach to the Taj Mahal aboard our hotel’s golf buggies early this morning, the tale of how this symbol of undying love came to be is recounted for us. With the story of Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal still playing out in our minds, we return to our hotel for breakfast, before heading out to explore the majestic Agra Fort.
This afternoon, set out on your first Your World experience:
— You may elect to admire the finely honed skills of a local artisan during a marble inlay demonstration.
— Hear Agra’s enthralling history, told from the perspective of those who once lived and traded along the Yamuna River. Visit some of the region’s most famous sites, including the Armenian Cemetery, Akbar’s Church and the Baroque Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
— Perhaps indulge in a spa treatment at our hotel or simply relax and enjoy some free time.
This evening, choose where to dine. Our hotel contains two restaurants: take a seat at the Italian-inspired Bellevue or try the Mughal cuisine expertly cooked at Esphahan.
Accommodation: Oberoi Amarvilas
DAY 4: VARANASI
We enjoy the short flight to Varanasi, one of the holiest of Hindu cities. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to Sarnath, a nearby archaeological site. It is said that Buddha delivered his first sermon in the forest here; for this reason, Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world are drawn here. Opportunities to hear a short talk on Buddhism or meditate with local monks also present themselves while you are here.
This afternoon, we survey the streets of Varanasi, the air thick with incense and spirituality. As the setting sun begins casting its orange glow across the sky, we board a boat to drift along the Ganges River to Dashashwamedh Ghat, where our private Aarti ceremony awaits our arrival. Incense spirals heavenward, while ceremonial flames symbolise offerings to the gods.
Accommodation: BrijRama Palace
DAY 5: VARANASI, KOLKATA
A sunrise boat ride along the Ganges reveals great numbers of pilgrims engaged in bathing rituals. We then set out on a walking tour of the Old City of Varanasi, where our attention is captured by the golden exterior of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and we take the opportunity to participate in a blessing ceremony while here. Boarding our jet once more, we depart for Kolkata, a dynamic city situated along the banks of the Hooghly River and the former capital of the British Raj. Following lunch at a local restaurant, we inspect the artefacts at the Indian Museum. The grand Neoclassical structure houses an array of antiques, armour, ornaments, and Mughal paintings. Our day concludes as we check into, and dine within, the ITC Royal Bengal Hotel.
Accommodation: ITC Royal Bengal Hotel
DAY 6: KOLKATA
This morning, we set out for the Mallik Ghat Flower Market. As we reach the banks of the Hooghly River, we see the famed Howrah Bridge, extending across the waters adjacent to the market. Just steps away, petals and garlands of bright blooms adorn a pathway past a multitude of individual stallholders. At nearby Dalhousie Square, we see a succession of historical buildings, including the Raj Bhavan, the General Post Office, and Kolkata High Court. Enjoy a taste of the local gastronomy during lunch at the Glenburn Penthouse. We then visit Victoria Memorial, a staggering white marble structure built in honour of Queen Victoria. Our day culminates with a visit to the home of Mother Teresa, as well as Shishu Bhavan, an orphanage for homeless children. We return to our hotel for dinner this evening.
Accommodation: ITC Royal Bengal Hotel
DAY 7: KOCHI
Lunch is served in-flight as we cross to India’s opposing coast. Our private jet soon lands in the city of Kochi, once the centre of the Indian spice trade. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the Taj Malabar Resort & Spa welcomes us for a three-night stay. Afterwards, we are welcomed to the nearby waterfront hotel, Brunton Boatyard, for a Kerala-themed dinner. As we dine, a troupe of Kathakali dancers leave us enthralled with their elaborate costumes and animated expressions.
Accommodation: Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
DAY 8: VOLCANOE’S NATIONAL PARK, RWANDA
This morning, we begin with an exploration of Fort Kochi, stopping to admire the 500-year-old St Francis Church. In neighbouring Mattancherry, we see the Dutch Palace, whose walls are adorned with colourful murals, vividly portraying scenes from the ancient Sanskrit epic Ramayana, as well as several Hindu deities. A stroll along the shore then brings us to Kochi’s iconic fishing nets. These remnants of Kochi’s past may dwindle in number, but the nets, with their teak and bamboo frames, are an inseparable part of the city’s identity.
This afternoon, Kochi invites you to further discover its charms with a Your World experience:
— Join a Kerala cooking demonstration, where you’ll learn the secrets of preparing authentic Keralan cuisine.
— Return to Mattancherry and browse the wares of its antique stores.
— Indulge your mind, body and spirit with an Ayurvedic treatment.
Tonight, choose from our hotel’s four distinctive restaurants.
Accommodation: Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
DAY 9: KERALA BACKWATERS, KOCHI
Further south, along India’s western coast, we arrive in Alappuzha, from where we board traditional houseboats for a cruise along the Kerala Backwaters. Constructed using an ancient technique, the hulls of our vessels are built without a single nail, while the curved lines of their roofs are created by means of handwoven bamboo and palm. As the daily routines of local residents unfold along the water’s edge before us, the area’s plentiful bird and plant life carry on with natural rhythms of their own. Enjoy lunch aboard your boat before returning to our hotel. You may like to try the offerings of another of our hotel’s restaurants this evening.
Accommodation: Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
DAY 10: UDAIPUR
Back on board our private jet, we journey north to Udaipur. The city is blessed with an abundance of white marble palaces, and our ultimate destination is the romantic, lake-bound Taj Lake Palace. We cross the waters of Lake Pichola, courtesy of a private boat, and acquaint ourselves with our breathtaking residence. Afterwards, a sunset cruise grants us a close-up view of the opulent Jag Mandir palace. As night falls, we return to our unique accommodation, where an exclusive dinner awaits on the Mewar Terrace.
Accommodation: Taj Lake Palace
DAY 11: UDAIPUR
Having made our way back across Lake Pichola, we bear witness to the imposing City Palace, which is in fact a sprawling complex of several palaces. Its structures comprise Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles and from its upper terraces we enjoy sweeping views of the city, as well as Jag Mandir. At the Crystal Gallery, we see the world’s largest private collection of crystal.
After lunch, personal preference dictates your choice of today’s Your World experiences:
— Venture to the Hindu temple of Eklingji, which was built in the eighth century and reflects the cultural and religious heritage of Rajasthan. Nearby, on the edge of Lake Bagela, see the temple of Sas Bahu, and its several subsidiary temples. The sites of Eklingji and Sas Bahu are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishu respectively.
— You may prefer to visit a fine art gallery to witness a live demonstration of one of India’s ancient art forms. Udaipur is renowned for its miniature paintings, which are imbued with vivid colour and striking detail. Afterwards, join a walking tour of the city’s markets.
— Or enjoy a free afternoon to lap up the amenities of our luxurious hotel.
This evening, our hotel hosts us for dinner, with a choice of the authentic flavours of Rajasthan or contemporary European cuisine.
Accommodation: Taj Lake Palace
DAY 12: JAIPUR
After a nourishing breakfast, we return to our private jet. A brief flight then brings us to Jaipur. We make our way to our hotel, arriving in time for lunch.
An afternoon Your World experience will introduce you to this fascinating city:
— Take a cycle rickshaw through Jaipur’s lively streets. Discover the mystique of this medieval walled city as you are driven by a local.
— Admire an assortment of art and antiques at the Gyan Museum. The collection here includes an astonishing array of jewellery, textiles, religious manuscripts, and ancient weaponry.
Our hotel in Jaipur is the magnificent Taj Rambagh Palace. For this evening’s dinner, select from one of our hotel’s fine-dining restaurants or one of Jaipur’s many first-rate establishments.
Accommodation: Taj Rambagh Palace
DAY 13: JAIPUR
Make an early start this morning and take to the skies in a hot-air balloon. As we soar high above the ‘Pink City’, we enjoy a thrilling bird’s-eye view over the vast landscapes passing beneath us. With our feet firmly back on terra firma, we adjourn for breakfast before proceeding to Panna Meena ka Kund, whose geometric stepwell is a mesmerising configuration of steps, columns and archways. Advancing to Amber Fort, we see its exterior featuring an exquisite display of glass inlay. At the Palace of the Winds, we are met by a towering facade constructed of pink sandstone in a staggering display of sophistication and symmetry. Returning to our hotel, we enjoy some time at leisure this afternoon.
This evening, attend a gala dinner at Taj Rambagh Palace to celebrate Diwali, India’s most anticipated Hindu festival. Also known as the festival of lights, the story of Diwali is recounted according to one of various narratives, depending upon one’s locality, though the common thread is always the celebration of light over darkness, good over evil. The festival lasts for five days each year, with specific traditions and practices being observed during each 24-hour period.
Accommodation: Taj Rambagh Palace
DAY 14: JAIPUR
After breakfast, venture to the World Heritage-listed Jantar Mantar, which comprises a series of ancient and prodigious astronomical instruments. Nearby, the City Palace reveals the extensive art collection once owned by the Maharajas of Jaipur.
This afternoon, you may choose to browse some of Jaipur’s finest jewellery, embroidered textiles, silver ornaments, and precious stonework.
A Farewell Dinner signifies the end of our journey.
Accommodation: Taj Rambagh Palace
DAY 15: DELHI
After a relaxing morning, we depart Jaipur aboard our private jet for the return to Delhi. Allow our inflight crew to pamper you one last time as you reflect upon your favourite experiences from our epic journey.
