DAY 1: DELHI, INDIA
Take some time to relax at The Oberoi New Delhi this afternoon before we celebrate the commencement of this grand journey during dinner.
Accommodation: The Oberoi New Delhi
DAY 2: DELHI, AGRA
During breakfast, listen as a historian delivers a brief talk on Delhi. You then set out on a discovery of the city. This drive takes you 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, you’ll see a grand structure comprising marble domes, towering minarets, and sweeping courtyards. A walking tour of Old Delhi then takes you 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 you 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, you’ll take the road south to Agra, where you check into the Oberoi Amarvilas. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner on the lawns of this hotel, as Kathak dancers perform for you.
Accommodation: Oberoi Amarvilas
DAY 3: AGRA
Having made the approach to the Taj Mahal aboard the hotel’s golf buggies early this morning, the tale of how this symbol of undying love came to be is recounted for you. With the story of Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal still playing out in your mind, you’ll return to the 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 the hotel or simply relax and enjoy some free time.
This evening, choose where to dine. The 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
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, you’ll survey the streets of Varanasi, the air thick with incense and spirituality. As the setting sun begins casting its orange glow across the sky, you board a boat to drift along the Ganges River to Dashashwamedh Ghat, where a private Aarti ceremony awaits your arrival. Incense spirals heavenward, while ceremonial flames symbolise offerings to the gods.
Accommodation: BrijRama Palace
DAY 5: VARANASI, KOCHI
A sunrise boat ride along the Ganges reveals great numbers of pilgrims engaged in bathing rituals. You then set out on a walking tour of the Old City of Varanasi, where your attention is captured by the golden exterior of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and you take the opportunity to participate in a blessing ceremony while here. Returning to the jet, you’ll depart once more, enjoying lunch in-flight as you cross India. Your 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 you for a three-night stay. For tonight’s dinner, choose from the hotel’s four distinctive restaurants.
Accommodation: Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
DAY 6: KOCHI
This morning, you begin with an exploration of Fort Kochi, stopping to admire the 500-year-old St Francis Church. In neighbouring Mattancherry, you’ll 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:
— Return to Mattancherry and browse the wares of its antique stores.
— Indulge your mind, body and spirit with an Ayurvedic treatment.
— Setting the stage for tonight’s special Kerala-themed dinner, witness Kathakali dancers going through their paces. The performers transform into archetypal characters through a skilful application of makeup, costumes, and subtle hand gestures.
Afterwards, you are welcomed to the nearby waterfront hotel, Brunton Boatyard, for a Kerala-themed dinner. As you dine, a troupe of Kathakali dancers will leave you enthralled with their elaborate costumes and animated expressions.
Accommodation: Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
DAY 7: KERALA BACKWATERS, KOCHI
Your World experiences allow you to tailor your day as you please:
— Travel to Alappuzha, further south along India’s western coast. Here you will board a traditional houseboat for a cruise along the Kerala Backwaters. As the daily routines of local residents unfold along the water’s edge, the area’s plentiful bird and plant life carry on with natural rhythms of their own. Enjoy lunch aboard your boat before returning to the hotel.
— Join a Kerala cooking demonstration, where you’ll learn the secrets of preparing authentic Keralan cuisine.
You are also free to remain at our hotel and take your morning at leisure.
Another choice of Your World experiences is available this afternoon:
— Witness the dexterity and artistry brought to bear by India’s tapestry weavers.
— Indulge your mind, body and spirit with an Ayurvedic treatment.
You may like to try the offerings of another of the hotel’s restaurants this evening.
Accommodation: Taj Malabar Resort & Spa
DAY 8: UDAIPUR
Back on board the private jet, you journey north to Udaipur. The city is blessed with an abundance of white marble palaces, and the ultimate destination is the romantic, lake-bound Taj Lake Palace. You cross the waters of Lake Pichola, courtesy of a private boat, and acquaint yourselves with your breathtaking residence. Afterwards, a sunset cruise grants you a close-up view of the opulent Jag Mandir palace. As night falls, return to your unique accommodation, where an exclusive dinner awaits on the Mewar Terrace.
Accommodation: Taj Lake Palace
DAY 9: UDAIPUR
Having made your way back across Lake Pichola, you 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, enjoy sweeping views of the city, as well as Jag Mandir. At the Crystal Gallery, you 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 the luxurious hotel.
Accommodation: Taj Lake Palace
DAY 10: JAIPUR
After a nourishing breakfast, you return to the private jet. A brief flight then brings you to Jaipur. You make your way to your 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.
The hotel in Jaipur is the magnificent Taj Rambagh Palace. For this evening’s dinner, select from one of the hotel’s fine-dining restaurants or one of Jaipur’s many first-rate establishments.
Accommodation: Taj Rambagh Palace
DAY 11: JAIPUR
Make an early start this morning and take to the skies in a hot-air balloon. As you soar high above the ‘Pink City’, you enjoy a thrilling bird’s-eye view over the vast landscapes passing beneath you. With your feet firmly back on terra firma, you 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, you can see its exterior featuring an exquisite display of glass inlay. At the Palace of the Winds, you are met by a towering facade constructed of pink sandstone in a staggering display of sophistication and symmetry. Returning to your hotel, enjoy some time at leisure this afternoon before dinner.
Accommodation: Taj Rambagh Palace
DAY 12: 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.
This evening, attend a gala Farewell Dinner at Taj Rambagh Palace, during which you will 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 13: DELHI
After a relaxing morning, you depart Jaipur aboard the private jet for the return to Delhi. Allow your inflight crew to pamper you one last time as you reflect upon your favourite experiences from our epic journey.
