Enchanting North India Tour

    2023– Feb. 28 to Mar. 14. 2024 – Mar. 17 to 31. 2025– Mar. 6 to 20.

Glamorous and beguiling, North India crackles with energy and color. North India is certainly the most visited region of India.  Enchanting Rajasthan represents India at its most vibrant and colorful, stay at the impossibly glamorous palaces, many of them have been converted into Hotels.

Explore the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, brimming with historical splendor. Discover, the pink sandstone city of Jaipur, savor the exquisite lake palaces of Udaipur and be awestruck by the formidable ramparts of Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort.

The north Indian cities are also unique: Delhi, the capital, is divided into the bustling, labyrinthine Old City and the majestic colonial avenues of New Delhi. Mumbai (Bombay) is famous for its thriving business culture and Bollywood film industry. An immersive holiday that will allow you to understand and enjoy the rich Indian culture.

THE ROYAL CITIES OF RAJASTHAN:  India’s northern region of Rajasthan is most often associated with its royal palaces, mighty forts and flashes of color — three shades in particular. Scattered across the desert territory, there’s the “Pink City” of Jaipur, the “Blue City” of Jodhpur and the “Gold City” of Jaisalmer — each with its own story.

Famously known as the Pink City of India, Jaipur is the city of royalty, of tales of valor and courage, and of romance and chivalry. Majestic forts, luxurious palaces, lively temples, colorful bazaars, and vibrant streets have given the city a unique and unmatched character that immediately endears itself to every visitor.

Explore the splendor of the blue city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur. The entire city of Jodhpur is painted in a beautiful hue of blue, which is where it gets it’s name. Hovering over the blue is the impressive Mehrangarh Fort, situated about 120 meters above the city in an otherwise flat stretch of desert, and is thought to be one of the largest forts in India. Admire the intricate carvings on the walls of the fort and the far spread out massive courtyards.

A quaint town built beside a small lake, Udaipur is the destination you want if you’d like to experience the glamour and royalty of Rajasthan. Go on a spectacular sightseeing tour of Udaipur and discover the gems that make this city stand out from the rest. Udaipur’s magnificent City Palace offers a sneak peek into the lives of the many Mewar rulers who called the region home. Located on the east bank of Lake Pichola, it has several palaces built within its complex, most of which are topped by balconies and cupolas. A walk through the palace interiors will expose you to its deep-rooted history and stunning architecture.

CELEBRATE INDIA’S FESTIVAL OF COLORS & GANGAUR FESTIVAL

HOLI: The vibrancy of colors is something that brings in a lot of positivity in our lives and Holi being the festival of colors is actually a day worth rejoicing. Holi is a famous Hindu festival that is celebrated in every part of India with utmost joy and enthusiasm. The ritual starts by lighting up the bonfire one day before the day of Holi and this process symbolizes the triumph of good over the bad. On the day of Holi people play with colors with their friends and families and in evening they show love and respect to their close ones with Abeer.

GANGAUR FESTIVAL: In the word Gangaur, ‘Gan’ is the synonym for Lord Shiva whereas ‘Gaur’ stands for Gauri or Goddess Parvati. But mainly, this festival is held in the honor of Goddess Parvati as she is regarded as the epitome of marital love, strength, courage, power and excellence. During the festivities, married women worship Goddess Parvati for the long life, well being and wealth of their husbands while the girls pray for getting a smart and an understanding life partner.

Your Journey Begins:

Day 1: ARRIVE MUMBAI- Dinner

Arrive Mumbai, meeting assistance on arrival by A Classic Tours Collection representative and transfer to hotel. Mumbai, a cluster of seven islands derives its name from Mumbadevi, the patron goddess of Koli fisher folk, the oldest habitants. Rest of the is free to adjust with time difference etc. Join your fellow tour members for a tour briefing and welcome dinner this evening. TAJ MAHAL PALACE HOTEL (Tower wing- sea facing room).

The Taj Mahal Palace opened in 1903, giving birth to the country’s first harbor landmark. The flagship hotel overlooks the majestic Gateway of India and has played host to kings, dignitaries and eminent personalities from across the globe, and is acknowledged as a world leader in hospitality. Each of the rooms 285 rooms & suites are a striking blend of nostalgic elegance, rich history and modern facilities. Strategically located in Mumbai’s prime historical and commercial hub

Day 2: MUMBAI – City Tour – Breakfast & Lunch 

Enjoy breakfast this morning and embark on city tour of Mumbai visiting the British built Gateway of India, Bombay’s landmark constructed in 1927 to commemorate Emperor George V’s visit. Followed by a drive through the city to see the unique architecture, Mumbai University, Victoria Terminus, Marine Drive, Chowpatty Beach. Next stop at Hanging Gardens, where the old English art of topiary is practiced. Continue to the Dhobi Ghat, an open-air laundry where washmen physically clean and iron hundreds of items of clothing, delivering them the next day. Next, visit Mani Bhawan, a memorial dedicated to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. He used to stay at this house from time to time between 1917 and 1934.

After lunch, embark on a walking tour of the ‘native’ bazaar areas of Bhuleshwar. You’ll be fascinated by the vibrant street markets, the colorful people, the multi-cultural mix of mosques, temples and derasars, the different cuisines, and the sheer throbbing energy of the place. The tour covers Crawford Market, Jama Masjid (meet India’s oldest Muslim community, who came here in the 6th Century), Mirchi Galli (spices market), Mangaldas Cloth Market, Zaveri Bazaar (where everyone’s crazy about gold), Phool Galli (Flower Street), Mumbadevi Temple (where the city gets its name from), and the quaint Madhav Baug. You’ll also get an inside look at the Jain community, visit a Panjra Pole (animal shelter) – and you’ll finally figure out what this ‘sacred cow’ thing is all about! TAJ MAHAL HOTEL.

Day 3: MUMBAI- Elephanta caves- Breakfast & Lunch

After Breakfast, transfer to Gateway of India where you will board a boat for tour of the Elephanta Caves, located on a small island about an hour’s boat-ride from the Gateway to India. These caves, showing some rock cut caves with intricate sculpture of Hindu Gods, were built between the 5^th and 8^th century.  Return to Mumbai where rest of the afternoon is free for independent activities. TAJMAHAL HOTEL.

Day 4: MUMBAI/ UDAIPUR- Breakfast & Dinner

Enjoy leisurely breakfast and time free until the afternoon flight to Udaipur, which is also referred to as the Venice of the East, this lake city is perhaps the most romantic of all the Indian centers. A fairytale collection of exotic gardens, mirror-calm lakes and fantasy island palaces. Meeting assistance and transfer to Hotel.  Rest of the day is free.

This evening enjoy a presentation of Rajasthani music and dance followed by Dinner. Enjoy the taste and flavors of European cuisine while admiring the beautiful Indian architecture and royal grandeur. The panoramic views of the Lake Pichola, the grand city of Udaipur and the Aravalli mountains in the distance. LAKE PALACE HOTEL Luxury Lake view room)

LAKE PALACE HOTEL: The young Prince, Maharana Jagat Singh requested his father, Maharana Sangram Singh II, if he could reside in the pleasure palace Jagmandir with his ladies. The Maharana did not give permission, but taunted his son that if he was so keen to stay in an Island Palace, why doesn’t he build one for himself. It is this taunt that led to him building his own pleasure palace on Lake Pichola in the year 1743. The Maharana (ruler) called this palace which he finished building in 1746, Jag Niwas. Jag Niwas is today the majestic and magnificent Taj Lake Palace of Udaipur.  Restored to its pristine glory, this spectacular palace became world renowned when the James Bond film ‘Octopussy’ was filmed at it. It was the secluded lair of the film’s eponymous Bond Girl.

Day 5: UDAIPUR – City tour- Breakfast & Lunch

Morning visit the City Palace, the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. The various buildings in the palace were built by 22 different Maharanas between the 16th and 20th centuries. The palace’s Dilkhushal Mahal contains two small chambers, the Kanch Burj and the Krishna Niwas, which are covered completely with red and silver glass and Mewar miniature paintings, respectively. This will be followed by a visit to the Jagdish Temple, built in 1651 in the Indo-Aryan style. Next visit the  Saheliyon ki Bari, Garden of the Maids, an eclectic, 18th century garden built for an Udaipur queen and the 48 maids that were part of her dowry. Lunch at local restaurant and the rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore the city on your own.  LAKE PALACE HOTEL.

Day 6: UDAIPUR/ RANAKPUR/ JODHPUR- Breakfast & Lunch

After Breakfast you will be driven to Ranakpur for sightseeing of the fabulous 500 -year old Jain Temples. The temples are superbly preserved in near perfect condition. The most distinctive feature are the 29 halls of the main temple, some octagonal and many more than one story high, are dissected by 1444 pillars, each sculpted with unique designs which no two are the exactly alike. The carving on the walls, while musicians and dancers have been modeled out of brackets between the pillars and the ceiling. Continue overland to Jodhpur stopping enroute visit villages, small markets, farms to observe and photograph rural life. Arrive in Jodhpur, a city dominated by its massive fort atop a sheer rocky hill in the middle of the town. After checking into your hotel, perhaps take a walking tour of the blue city on your own.   UMAID BHAWAN PALACE HOTEL.

UMAID BHAWAN: Built between 1928 and 1943, Umaid Bhawan Palace is a magnificent piece of Rajasthan’s heritage, and a symbol of new Jodhpur. Home of the erstwhile Jodhpur royal family and currently the world’s sixth-largest private residence, the palace has one thing in common with the iconic Taj Mahal at Agra—the palm court marble used in its construction.   Perched on Chittar Hill, the highest point in Jodhpur, Umaid Bhawan Palace inspires with exotic views of the historical Blue City, vast sand dunes, and intimidating Mehrangarh Fort.

Day 7: JODHPUR – City tour- – Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, visit the Mehrangarh Fort, which Kipling called one of the grandest sights in India. From the courtyard, view the fantastic jali (lattice) work that almost entirely covers the sandstone walls and balconies. Explore the beautifully decorated dancing hall, the royal bedroom, jewel-studded robes, ornate baby cradles, solid silver elephant seats and palanquins. A short distance from the fort, visit the royal cenotaphs at Jaswant Thada, white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Your afternoon is free to explore the town market and the chance to photograph the camel caravans and sunset. UMAID BHAWAN PALACE HOTEL .

Day 8: JODHPUR / JAIPUR- Bishnoi village excursion- Breakfast & Lunch

After breakfast, proceed for Bishnoi village jeep Safari, a unique community, located about 45 minutes’ drive from the city, amidst the serene nature. Guda Bishnoi Village is a perfect example of dedication to Mother Nature exhibited by its inhabitants and their unique religion. Every house is built in a traditional way with utmost cleanliness around it. People of Bishnoi village rarely cut trees and worship animals as a part of conserving nature. It is because of this reason, that the people are considered as the pioneers of the green movement of the world. The village is a perfect blend of Indian culture and traditions. Visit some of the homes and see the traditional arts and crafts. Return to the Hotel after the tour.

In the afternoon travel by air to Jaipur, owing its name, foundations and careful planning to the great warrior, astronomer, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The capital of India’s majestic Rajasthan region, Jaipur is a chaotic mix of old and new, abundant with historical gems and arresting visual beauty. From centuries-old fortresses to dusty pink palaces oozing fairy-tale grandeur, Jaipur evokes a whimsical, old-world charm. Rest of the evening is free. RAJ PALACE HOTEL.

RAJ PALACE: A former Maharaja’s palace built in 1727 in the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, The Raj Palace Hotel is truly stunning and has been meticulously restored to reflect the palace’s original majesty and charm. A heritage and award-winning hotel, expect superb service, two restaurants, a spa, an exclusive cinema, a beautiful pool and decorative gardens. The Hotel is just brimming with antiques and artifacts from the days of the Raj including beautiful Oriental rugs, crystal chandeliers and rich fabrics. With impressive arches, ornate wall decorations, pillars and courtyards, not only is the palace spectacular, but the history of the place also seems to come alive.

Day 9: JAIPUR- Holi Festival & City Tour- Breakfast & Lunch

HOLI FESTIVAL: Holi or the ‘Festival of Colors’, is a celebration of good over evil and gives us all an opportunity to reunite with family, friends and dear ones. Holi also symbolizes the end of winter and heralds the arrival of spring, marking the beginning of the New Year. It is a time to renew and revive broken bonds, forge new ones, and bring harmony. The morning of Holi is literally a riot of colors as the country prepares to dance, bathe and celebrate life in all the colors of the rainbow imaginable. The mood is lively and upbeat and the laughter contagious. People spray water on each other and smear each other’s faces with color, there is plenty of song, dance, music enjoyed with traditional Holi sweets and delicacies. Soak in the festive gala with some of the royal family members at a traditional royal Haveli for a unique festival experience.

Visit the city Palace this afternoon, built by Jai Singh II during his reign, the ruler of the of the kingdom of Amber (later called Jaipur), the City Palace is a large complex of palaces, courtyards and gardens, the greatest part of it still being a royal residence. Dating back to the early 20th Century, it is a striking blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture located in the centre of the Old City, which has been enlarged and adapted over the centuries. Continue to Jantar Mantar, the largest of Jai Singh’s remarkable observatories. Its complex instruments, whose setting and shapes are scientifically designed, represent the high points of medieval Indian astronomy. RAJ PALACE HOTEL

Day 10: JAIPUR- Amber fort & Gangaur Festival- Breakfast & Dinner 

The Hawa Mahal (also known as ‘Palace of winds’) was built in 1799 as an extension to the Royal City Palace of Jaipur. It allowed the royal ladies who at the time strictly observed ‘pardah’, to be able to watch any processions and activities on the street without being seen by the public. Its five stories of red and pink sandstone loom over the city in a dazzling display of ancient Indian architecture. The top offers stunning views over Jantar Mantar and the City Palace in one direction and over Sireh Deori Bazaar in the other. There’s a small museum with miniature paintings and some rich relics, such as ceremonial armour, which help evoke the royal past. Visit the ancient capital of Amber, ascending the Palace Fortress on the back of a gaily caparisoned elephant. Tour the intricate chambers and hallways of the palace.

GANGAUR FESTIVAL: Gangaur is one of the most important local festivals in Rajasthan. This festival is celebrated especially by the womenfolk. Gangaur celebrates the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. These gods are worshiped by the unmarried girls who seek the blessing of “Gan” and “Gauri” for the good husband, while the married pray for the good health and long life of their husbands. Witness the traditional procession, pageantry and rituals during your stay at Jaipur and explore the unique culture of the royal state of Rajasthan. RAJ PALACE HOTEL.

Note: Tour schedule will be adjusted according to the festival timings.

Day 11: JAIPUR / ABHANERI /FATEHPUR SIKRI / AGRA- Breakfast & Lunch

After breakfast, travel overland to Agra. Stopping enroute at Abhaneri, an ancient village famous for its post Gupta or early medieval monuments, intricately carved sculptures and temples. The Harshat Mata temple reflects the fine 8^th century example of architectural excellence. Visit the water tank or step wells an ancient way of storing rain water. The tank’s staircase is a stunning design that a coin once dropped is impossible to retrieve. After Lunch, visit Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted capital city, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned 15 years later due to severe water shortage. Within the city, you will tour the Diwan-I-Aam or Hall of Public Audiences. Diwan-I-Khaas or the Hall of Private Audience is a two storied building. Panch Mahal or Five Story Palace is a five storied building and the architecture is Persian in style like a Buddhist monastery. Palace of Jodha Bai is named after Jehangir’s wife Jodha Bai. This palace is a fine blend of Hindu columns and Muslim Cupolas. Palace of the Winds where the walls are entirely made of stone lattice work. Birbal Palace, Miriam’s House. Ankh Michauli is where the emperor played hide and seek with the ladies of the harem and was probably used for storing records. Sheikh Salim Chisti Dargah is the tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti, originally built of red sandstone but was later rebuilt in white marble by Jehangir. Continue to Agra and check in at your Hotel.

This evening we will watch the sunset over the Taj Mahal from the Mehtab Bagh, or Moonlight Garden. From any angle, this structure is awe-inspiring. TAJ HOTEL.

Day 12: AGRA TOURING/ DELHI- Breakfast & Dinner

Rise early this morning to see & photograph Taj by sunrise. Best time to see Taj when it is less crowded. As the light changes, so too does the color of the Taj Mahal. One of the best times to visit is in the early hours when it is bathed in the ethereal glow of the morning light. As the sun rises, the marble changes from a soft golden hue to dazzling white, and as evening draws in, its character changes once again. Return to Hotel for breakfast. Later visit Taj Museum for a close look at the original pieces of drawings of this wonderful marble monument. A look at the drawings reveals the level of accuracy and precision that has gone in planning the structure of the Taj Mahal. The architect had also guessed that the construction would be done in 22 years. Drawings of the interiors show the position of the graves in such precision that the foot of the graves faces the viewer from any angle. Many more such breathtaking collections include royal ornaments, wonderful paintings, portraits of Mughal emperors etc. Visit the Taj Mahal, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631-52, as a tomb and memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal (Jewel of the Palace). Continue to Agra Fort built by three of the greatest Mughal emperors.

This evening board express train to Delhi. India’s bustling capital city. New Delhi reflects the legacy the British left behind. The division between New and Old Delhi is the segregation between the capitals of the British and the Mughals respectively. Meeting assistance upon arrival and transfer to Hotel. TAJMAHAL HOTEL

Day 13: OLD & NEW DELHI TOUR- Breakfast & Lunch

Breakfast and tour briefing. Later embark on a tour of Old Delhi. Your first stop is Mahatma Gandhi Memorial at Raj Ghat; the famous Chandni Chowk bazaars, once the shopping arcade of Mughal royalty. Take a Rickshaw ride through the narrow and colorful lanes of old market offering an excellent opportunity to photograph the daily life in Old Delhi. Finally visit marble domes and slender minarets of the Jama Masjid. Climb up the stairs to photograph the old city and Red Fort. Your sightseeing tour of New Delhi this afternoon includes Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, a prominent shrine of the Sikhs open to people of all faiths, castes or creeds. Initially the residence of Raja Jai Singh Amber of Jaipur, in 1664 Guru Harkishan Singh (the 8th Sikh Guru) resided here during his visit to Delhi. Drive along Rajpath to photograph the Parliament House, President’s Palace and India Gate, a memorial to India’s soldiers. Continue to Humayun’s tomb, forerunner to Taj Mahal. Your final stop is at the Qutab Minar and ruins of Hindu temples destroyed during the Qutabshahi period. TAJMAHAL HOTEL.

Day 14: DELHI – Free day- – Breakfast & Dinner

You may want to visit Delhi Haat established to encourage arts and crafts in India. A single venue that provides all kind of product like crafts, music, cultural festival and dance etc. Shopping provides a full exotic variety in shopping products that includes handlooms, handicrafts, woodcarvings, camel hide footwear, drapery, fabric made clothing, gems, beads ornaments etc. The manufacturers and artists are given opportunity to showcase their products on rotational basis that changes every 15 days, so that the visitors can enjoy shopping different products emphasizing different part of India and even the small craftsmen get a chance to place their products directly to consumers. Also visit INA Market, is known as the food bazaar of Delhi frequented by locals to buy  Fresh seafood, meat, spices, vegetables, fruits  etc. The market, which lies across the street from Dilli Haat, offers a unique experience to mingle with locals and also offers great photographic opportunity. Farewell Dinner this evening including presentation of Indian music and dances. TAJMAHAL HOTEL.

Note : Some international flights from Delhi depart late this evening arriving home next morning.

Day 15: DELHI /HOME

Early this morning transfer to airport for your return flight homewards. Arriving home, the same day.

2023 – LAND TOUR PRICE – Credit card payment

$8170.00 per person sharing

Single room- $11450.00

Cash/ Check & Bank wire Transfer discounted price:

$7855.00 per person sharing

Single room- $11125.00

INTERNAL INDIA AIRFARE- Economy class- $240.00 per person.

** Airfares are based on best available at time of quoting. Subject to change.

CALL FOR DISCOUNTED INTERNATIONAL AIRFARES IN ECONOMY, PREMIUM ECONOMY & BUSINESS CLASS FROM YOUR HOME CITY

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: 888 605 TOURS (8687) or 310 373 1001. E.Mail: [email protected]