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itineraries

HIGHLIGHTS

Architectural Marvels of Central India

Visit the Historic Capital of India- New Delhi

Spectacular Caves of Ajanta and Ellora

Best from September to April

Delhi – Gwalior – Bhopal – Indore – Mandu – Dhar – Maheshwar – Aurangabad – Ajanta – Ellora – Mumbai

itinerary

Assiduously designed to take you to the heart of India, on this tour you will explore the heritage and architectural gems of Central India.

Your holiday will begin in Delhi, where you will be dazzled by the spirit and diversity of the city. From here you will travel to Gwalior to admire the magnificence of the Gwalior Fort and other Hindu architecture. Bhopal is dotted with Islamic, Buddhist and cave man marvels, while the village of Mandu is dotted with UNESCO World Heritage Site–declared palaces, tombs, monuments and mosques. The beauty of the Ahilya Fort and the paintings and rock sculptures of Ajanta and Ellora will certainly take your breath away. In your leisure time, you can stroll around the local bazaars and streets, where you can find some exquisite souvenirs to take back home.

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Day 1. To Delhi

Departure from your home country to Delhi

Day 2. Delhi

Arrival Delhi in the morning and then on in the afternoon sightseeing of fascinating Old Delhi including an exhilarating cycle rickshaw ride to the Jama Masjid through the bustling Chandni Chowk and its back roads, which were the centre of the city Shah Jehanabad in the Mughal era. The charming ambiance of this city will leave a magical spell with its immaculate blend of old world beauty and modern lifestyle, coexisting comfortably in this city of Djinns. Finally, continue onto the Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation site, before returning to the hotel. Two nights at Hotel Maidens.

Day 3. Delhi

Morning sightseeing of other major attractions of New Delhi including Humayun’s Tomb, the Qutab Minar, and India Gate. The mystic charm of this city truly resides in its rich historic background and architectural marvels. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 4. To Gwalior

Early morning Shatabdi train to Gwalior. Gwalior sightseeing in the afternoon including Gwalior Fort, which stands as an epitome of Hindu architecture in Northern India. Also visit the Jai Vilas Palace and Museum, and the tombs of Ghaus Mohammed and Tansen. Overnight at the Usha Kiran Palace.

Day 5. To Bhopal

Morning Shatabdi train to Bhopal. Afternoon sightseeing of Bhopal will include the Taj-ul-Masjid, considered to be the largest mosque in Asia, and Dhai Seedhi Masjid, Bhopal’s oldest mosque. Two nights stay at the Jehan Numa Palace.

Day 6. Bhopal

Morning excursion to Sanchi Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site originally built and patronised by Emperor Ashoka the Great in the 3rd century BC. Afternoon excursion to Bhimbetka to view its ancient cave paintings, some of which are believed to be 12,000 years old. They depict amazing scenes based on the philosophy of life and death of early man.

Day 7. To Indore

Morning drive to Indore. Afternoon visit to the mesmerizing Kanch Mandir, an exceptional architectural feat, with all the interiors – floors, ceilings, walls, doors and pillars – ornamented with varied mirrors. Overnight stay at the Radisson Blu.

Day 8. To Dhar via Mandu

Drive to Dhar, en route visiting the vast deserted fort of Mandu including the Royal Enclave, village and Rawa Kund buildings. Mandu, a treasure trove of fine architecture and amazingly sculpted stones, depicts the life and love of the poet-prince Baz Bahadur for Rani Roopmati. Overnight at the Jhira Bagh Palace.

Day 9. To Maheshwar

Drive to Maheshwar and relax in the delightful Ahilya Fort. You can stroll to the beautiful ghats (stepped river bank) and explore the lovely temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Two nights at Ahilya Fort.

Day 10. Maheshwar

Day at leisure to enjoy the beauty of the 250-year-old Ahilya Fort perched high above the Narmada River. Stroll around the gardens, swim in the pool or take a boat ride along the sacred river.

Day 11. To Aurangabad

Drive to Aurangabad. Three nights stay at the Taj Residency.

Day 12. Excursion to Ajanta Caves

Full day Ajanta excursion where the exquisite 2,000 year old Buddhist paintings will transport you back through the centuries, bringing to life a bygone era of wonders.

Day 13. Excursion to Ellora Caves

Morning sightseeing of the amazing Hindu sculptures and Buddhist art work at Ellora. The spectacular work will leave you awestruck, particularly the stunning Kailasanatha Temple. In the afternoon, enjoy sightseeing of Aurangabad.

Day 14. To Mumbai

Fly to Mumbai in the morning. Afternoon sightseeing of this pulsating city, including the Prince of Wales Museum, Crawford Market and Dhobi Ghats. Overnight at the Marine Plaza Hotel.

Day 15. On the final day

Departure for your home country.

Suggested extensions: Goa and the hill station of Matheran (various other extensions are available on request).

Each of our programs can be customised to our client’s desires.

Accommodation

  • Luxury hotels in all locations.
  • Can be customized according to requirement.

Tour Inclusions

  • Assistance upon arrival and departure at airports and railways stations
  • Accommodation
  • English Speaking Guide and entrance charges as indicated in the itinerary
  • All domestic transfers within the country
  • Complimentary drinking water