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Mystical India

With Ranthambore Tiger Preserve

From $5,287
total price from Boston or New York
$4,395 air & land inclusive plus $892 airline taxes and fees
Tour Days
17 days
Tour Membership
12-24 guests
Post-Tour Extension

Physical Activity Level:

Overview

Mystical and spiritual, chaotic and confounding, India overflows with riches. While staying at excellent hotels, we travel the classic Golden Triangle: bustling Delhi; Agra, home of the sublime Taj Mahal; and Jaipur, great city of the Rajput. We also search for elusive Bengals at Ranthambore Tiger Preserve, and absorb the holiness of Varanasi.

Tour Details

Mystical India

With Ranthambore Tiger Preserve

From $5,287

total price from Boston or New York
$4,395 air & land inclusive plus $892 airline taxes and fees

Tour Days
17 days

Tour Membership
12-24 guests

Optional Extension

Physical Activity Level:

Tour Days
17 days

Tour Membership
12-24 guests

Optional Extension

Physical Activity Level:

Overview

Mystical and spiritual, chaotic and confounding, India overflows with riches. While staying at excellent hotels, we travel the classic Golden Triangle: bustling Delhi; Agra, home of the sublime Taj Mahal; and Jaipur, great city of the Rajput. We also search for elusive Bengals at Ranthambore Tiger Preserve, and absorb the holiness of Varanasi.

Small Group Highlights

  • Tours of Old and New Delhi
  • Home-hosted dinner with Jaipur family
  • Magnificent Taj Mahal
  • Two-night stay at Ranthambore Tiger Preserve
  • Meena tribal home visit
  • “Pink City” of Jaipur
  • Holy city of Varanasi
  • Pilgrimage site of Sarnath temple and museum

Day-by-Day Itinerary

B
= Breakfast Included
L
= Lunch Included
D
= Dinner Included
1
Depart U.S. for Delhi, India
Depart U.S. for Delhi, India
2
Arrive Delhi
Arrive Delhi

We arrive in India’s hyperactive capital late evening and transfer to our hotel.

We arrive in India’s hyperactive capital late evening and transfer to our hotel.

3
Delhi
B
D
B
D
Delhi

After a morning at leisure followed by a briefing about the journey ahead, we set out to discover Old Delhi. Our first stop is Qutb Minar, the 379-step tower dating to 1192. We continue on to Gandhi Smriti, a museum dedicated to the Indian icon; and pass by India Gate, the majestic arch honoring the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died fighting alongside the British in World War I. Late this afternoon we return to our hotel, where tonight we enjoy a welcome dinner together.

After a morning at leisure followed by a briefing about the journey ahead, we set out to discover Old Delhi. Our first stop is Qutb Minar, the 379-step tower dating to 1192. We continue on to Gandhi Smriti, a museum dedicated to the Indian icon; and pass by India Gate, the majestic arch honoring the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died fighting alongside the British in World War I. Late this afternoon we return to our hotel, where tonight we enjoy a welcome dinner together.

4
Delhi
B
L
B
L
Delhi

We encounter more of this pulsating city today, beginning at Raj Ghat, the simple black marble slab honoring Mahatma Gandhi. After stopping for photos at Lal Qila, the Red Fort complex of palaces, we visit a Sikh temple followed by lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon’s sights include the red sandstone and marble Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque; and the colorful Chandni Chowk market, where we ride rickshaws. Then the remainder of the day is free for further exploration and dinner on our own.

We encounter more of this pulsating city today, beginning at Raj Ghat, the simple black marble slab honoring Mahatma Gandhi. After stopping for photos at Lal Qila, the Red Fort complex of palaces, we visit a Sikh temple followed by lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon’s sights include the red sandstone and marble Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque; and the colorful Chandni Chowk market, where we ride rickshaws. Then the remainder of the day is free for further exploration and dinner on our own.

Special Festival Departures
Pushkar Camel Fair
Nov 5, 2024
Nov 7, 2024
Nagaur Camel Fair
Jan 30, 2025
Jan 31, 2025

These select departures will be 19 days in duration, with two additional nights spent at the festival — after the stay in Delhi and prior to arriving in Jaipur.

Lively and exotic Hindu gatherings, with camel trading, feasts, and traditional sports and entertainment. We spend 2 nights at a nearby tented camp (Nagaur); or at a nearby resort (Pushkar).

5
Delhi/Jaipur
B
L
D
B
L
D
Delhi/Jaipur

Today we travel by coach to the “pink city” of Jaipur, one of the great cities of the Rajput, with historic forts, palaces, and gardens, and now a UNESCO site. We reach our hotel late afternoon.

Today we travel by coach to the “pink city” of Jaipur, one of the great cities of the Rajput, with historic forts, palaces, and gardens, and now a UNESCO site. We reach our hotel late afternoon.

6
Jaipur
B
L
B
L
Jaipur

Our first stop is the stunning Hawa Mahal, the elaborately carved pink sandstone “Palace of the Winds.” We continue on to Amber Fort, built by the Kachhawah Rajputs as their capital from 1037 to 1728; Jantar Mantar, the open-air observatory; and City Palace Museum, housing the magnificent art collections of the Maharajahs of Jaipur.

Our first stop is the stunning Hawa Mahal, the elaborately carved pink sandstone “Palace of the Winds.” We continue on to Amber Fort, built by the Kachhawah Rajputs as their capital from 1037 to 1728; Jantar Mantar, the open-air observatory; and City Palace Museum, housing the magnificent art collections of the Maharajahs of Jaipur.

7
Jaipur/Sanganer
B
D
B
D
Jaipur/Sanganer

This morning we visit the village of Sanganer to see traditional block printing and handmade paper industries. Later we see local life up close as we explore an outdoor market. Tonight we are dinner guests in the home of a multi-generational Rajasthan family.

This morning we visit the village of Sanganer to see traditional block printing and handmade paper industries. Later we see local life up close as we explore an outdoor market. Tonight we are dinner guests in the home of a multi-generational Rajasthan family.

8
Jaipur/Ranthambore
B
L
D
B
L
D
Jaipur/Ranthambore

We travel today to Ranthambore National Park, the former hunting ground of the Maharajah of Jaipur and now a 512-square-mile natural preserve that is home to hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, mammals, and of course, Bengal tigers. This afternoon we take our first game drive through the park.

We travel today to Ranthambore National Park, the former hunting ground of the Maharajah of Jaipur and now a 512-square-mile natural preserve that is home to hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, mammals, and of course, Bengal tigers. This afternoon we take our first game drive through the park.

9
Ranthambore
B
L
D
B
L
D
Ranthambore

We take both morning and afternoon game drives today to see not only game (though tiger and leopard sightings are not guaranteed), but also picturesque ruins of forts and palaces.

We take both morning and afternoon game drives today to see not only game (though tiger and leopard sightings are not guaranteed), but also picturesque ruins of forts and palaces.

10
Ranthambore/Gadoli
B
L
D
B
L
D
Ranthambore/Gadoli

We depart early for Kalakho, where we set out on a village walk to meet local Meena tribespeople in their homes. Tonight we enjoy a traditional folk dance performance.

We depart early for Kalakho, where we set out on a village walk to meet local Meena tribespeople in their homes. Tonight we enjoy a traditional folk dance performance.

11
Gadoli/Agra
B
D
B
D
Gadoli/Agra

En route to Agra, we stop in the ancient village of Abhaneri to see the fortified Chand Baori step well (c. 800 CE), whose 3,500 steps descend some 13 stories into the ground. Continuing on, we reach the ancient Mughal stronghold of Agra, where this afternoon we visit Itimad-ud-Daulah, the two-story marble “Baby Taj” that inspired the Taj Mahal.

En route to Agra, we stop in the ancient village of Abhaneri to see the fortified Chand Baori step well (c. 800 CE), whose 3,500 steps descend some 13 stories into the ground. Continuing on, we reach the ancient Mughal stronghold of Agra, where this afternoon we visit Itimad-ud-Daulah, the two-story marble “Baby Taj” that inspired the Taj Mahal.

12
Agra
B
L
B
L
Agra

This morning we visit the Taj Mahal, the magnificent tomb built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz. Then we take an Indian cuisine cooking lesson and enjoy the results for lunch. Later: imposing Agra Fort.

This morning we visit the Taj Mahal, the magnificent tomb built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz. Then we take an Indian cuisine cooking lesson and enjoy the results for lunch. Later: imposing Agra Fort.

13
Agra/Delhi/Varanasi
B
L
D
B
L
D
Agra/Delhi/Varanasi

We depart by coach this morning for Delhi, where we board a late afternoon flight to Varanasi, Hinduism’s holiest city.

We depart by coach this morning for Delhi, where we board a late afternoon flight to Varanasi, Hinduism’s holiest city.

14
Varanasi/Sarnath
B
D
B
D
Varanasi/Sarnath

Before breakfast today, those who wish can join in a private yoga session. Then we visit nearby Sarnath, where the Buddha first taught after achieving enlightenment. One of Buddhism’s four holiest sites, Sarnath draws pilgrims from the world over. We see some of the temples and stupas then tour Sarnath Museum, housing a superb collection of Buddhist artifacts from excavations here. Late afternoon we attend a traditional aarti ceremony: as we cruise along the Ganges, we watch as devout Hindus offer their lit lamps to the deities.

Before breakfast today, those who wish can join in a private yoga session. Then we visit nearby Sarnath, where the Buddha first taught after achieving enlightenment. One of Buddhism’s four holiest sites, Sarnath draws pilgrims from the world over. We see some of the temples and stupas then tour Sarnath Museum, housing a superb collection of Buddhist artifacts from excavations here. Late afternoon we attend a traditional aarti ceremony: as we cruise along the Ganges, we watch as devout Hindus offer their lit lamps to the deities.

15
Varanasi
B
D
B
D
Varanasi

Early this morning we return to the Ganges where Hindu pilgrims perform their rituals along the ghats (steps) leading to the river. We visit several ghats by boat as we experience for ourselves the spiritual aura of the hallowed Ganges waters. Then we return to our hotel with time to rest before this afternoon’s walking tour and private performance of classical sitar. Tonight we celebrate our journey at a farewell dinner at our hotel.

Early this morning we return to the Ganges where Hindu pilgrims perform their rituals along the ghats (steps) leading to the river. We visit several ghats by boat as we experience for ourselves the spiritual aura of the hallowed Ganges waters. Then we return to our hotel with time to rest before this afternoon’s walking tour and private performance of classical sitar. Tonight we celebrate our journey at a farewell dinner at our hotel.

16
Varanasi/Delhi
B
B
Varanasi/Delhi

We fly this afternoon to Delhi, where the evening is at leisure.

We fly this afternoon to Delhi, where the evening is at leisure.

17
Return to U.S.
Return to U.S.

Very early this morning we transfer to the airport for our return flight to the U.S.

Very early this morning we transfer to the airport for our return flight to the U.S.

Tour Price Includes

  • Round-trip air transportation from listed cities; all flights within India
  • 15 nights’ accommodations in Deluxe, Superior First Class, First Class, and unrated hotels
  • 32 meals: 14 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 10 dinners
  • Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
  • Services of an Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director
  • Private motorcoach transportation throughout your trip
  • Luggage handling for one bag per person
  • Gratuities for local guides, dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers
  • $100 frequent traveler credit towards your next Odysseys Unlimited tour ($200 after 3 tours; $300 after 10 tours)

Average Daily High by Month (°F )

  Jan Feb Mar Apr Oct Nov Dec
Delhi 70 75 83 97 89 82 73
Agra 72 77 88 96 91 85 75

Average Temperature (°F )

  Jan Feb Mar Apr Oct Nov Dec
Delhi 70 75 83 97 89 82 73
Agra 72 77 88 96 91 85 75

Dates & Prices

Please wait while we retrieve this information.

Post-Tour Extension

Nepal

6 days, 4 nights
From
$1,495
+ $375 Single Supplement

Nepal

6 days, 4 nights
From
$1,495
+ $375 Single Supplement

Absorb the beauty of the Himalayan kingdom –­ ­and the warmth of its people – on this special journey featuring sacred shrines, royal cities, and indigenous lifestyles.

Post-Tour Extension Price Includes

  • Round-trip air transportation Delhi/Kathmandu, inclusive of airline taxes and fees
  • 4 nights’ accommodations: 2 nights in Nagarkot at Club Himalaya Nagarkot (Superior First Class); 2 nights in Kathmandu at The Soaltee Kathmandu (Superior First Class); day room in Delhi
  • 8 meals: 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
  • Extensive sightseeing, including Pashupatinath shrine (UNESCO site); Boudhanath monument; colorful Bhaktapur, “City of Devotees;” Swayambhunath Temple; royal city of Patan; and Kathmandu and environs
  • Services of an Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director
  • Private motorcoach transportation
  • Gratuities for dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers

Pricing: $1,495 in 2024; $1,595 in 2025. Single Supplement: $375 all dates.

A visa is required for this post-tour extension. Odysseys Unlimited will provide information about entry requirements upon reservation.

Accommodations

Tour Directors

Sanjay Nepal

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“Very personable – enjoyed his humor & describing customs of Nepal – excellent guide.”

Nancy Whitfield
Hobart, WI

Ritu Sharma

“Ritu is [wonderful]… She is very knowledgeable about India and made India come alive for us. She is very attentive to everyone’s specific needs. Ritu is fun-loving and flexible.”

Patricia Murphy
Danville, CA

Shailesh Chauhan

“Great guy and tour director. Very kind and helpful in all situations. So knowledgeable and shared great information and insights.”

Dedee & Irv Cygler
Charlotte, NC

Girish Bakshi

“Charming, knowledgeable, and attentive to each person’s needs. Couldn’t have a better guide than Girish.”

Lois & Joel Seiden
Sarasota, FL

Dheerendra Singh Nathawat

“Singh was over-the-top amazing in every way – his knowledge of India was simply incredibly – no question went unanswered. Fabulous personality!”

Carol Caswell
Philadelphia, PA

Niraj Maharjan

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“Both guides [were] very professional. Gave us a sense of comfort that wouldn’t have been possible without them.”

Clete Willems
Bonita Springs, FL

Rajir Shrestha

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“[They were both] exceptionally committed to the individual needs of the travelers; really seemed to care about us.”

Elaine Bohlmeyer
Forest Grove, OR

Ramesh Acharya

Tour Director - Nepal Extension

 

Rashid Latif

“Rashid was professional, personable, and most accommodating to our wants – a perfect representative of Odysseys’ high standard for tour guides.”

Walter J. Novak
Tolland, CT

Anup Shrestha

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“Anup Shrestha was also very kind and knowledgeable. I was the only guest on the Nepal Extension tour, so he offered to customize my experience to include more hiking (as I had hoped).”

Valerie Wagner
New York, NY

Binaya Rana

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“Calm, kind, adventurous, supremely helpful.”

Carol Morganski
Columbus, OH

Padmaja Bharti

"Padmaja was bright, knowledgeable, helpful, fun, and always available for whatever we needed. She knows so much about her country…She's the best tour guide I've ever had."

Nancy Kiskis
Wayzata, MN

Suresh Shrestha

Tour Director - Nepal Extension

“Certainly one of the best tour directors that I have had.”

Delores Nance
Tempe, AZ

Tour Directors

Shailesh Chauhan

“Great guy and tour director. Very kind and helpful in all situations. So knowledgeable and shared great information and insights.”

Dedee & Irv Cygler
Charlotte, NC

Binaya Rana

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“Calm, kind, adventurous, supremely helpful.”

Carol Morganski
Columbus, OH

Sanjay Nepal

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“Very personable – enjoyed his humor & describing customs of Nepal – excellent guide.”

Nancy Whitfield
Hobart, WI

Suresh Shrestha

Tour Director - Nepal Extension

“Certainly one of the best tour directors that I have had.”

Delores Nance
Tempe, AZ

Niraj Maharjan

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“Both guides [were] very professional. Gave us a sense of comfort that wouldn’t have been possible without them.”

Clete Willems
Bonita Springs, FL

Girish Bakshi

“Charming, knowledgeable, and attentive to each person’s needs. Couldn’t have a better guide than Girish.”

Lois & Joel Seiden
Sarasota, FL

Ramesh Acharya

Tour Director - Nepal Extension

 

Rajir Shrestha

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“[They were both] exceptionally committed to the individual needs of the travelers; really seemed to care about us.”

Elaine Bohlmeyer
Forest Grove, OR

Anup Shrestha

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“Anup Shrestha was also very kind and knowledgeable. I was the only guest on the Nepal Extension tour, so he offered to customize my experience to include more hiking (as I had hoped).”

Valerie Wagner
New York, NY

Rashid Latif

“Rashid was professional, personable, and most accommodating to our wants – a perfect representative of Odysseys’ high standard for tour guides.”

Walter J. Novak
Tolland, CT

Dheerendra Singh Nathawat

“Singh was over-the-top amazing in every way – his knowledge of India was simply incredibly – no question went unanswered. Fabulous personality!”

Carol Caswell
Philadelphia, PA

Padmaja Bharti

"Padmaja was bright, knowledgeable, helpful, fun, and always available for whatever we needed. She knows so much about her country…She's the best tour guide I've ever had."

Nancy Kiskis
Wayzata, MN

Ritu Sharma

“Ritu is [wonderful]… She is very knowledgeable about India and made India come alive for us. She is very attentive to everyone’s specific needs. Ritu is fun-loving and flexible.”

Patricia Murphy
Danville, CA

Destination Insights

Exploring...

Recommended Books & Films

Exploring...

Guest Photos & Testimonials

This was our third trip with Odysseys. You have thought of everything and you are a five-star organization.
Dr. David Fixler & Susan Fixler
Dallas , TX
I have been on many tours, eight tours with Odysseys alone. [This] turned out to be my favorite tour I’ve ever taken . . . I was, in the words of my grandsons, completely ‘blown away’ by every aspect of the tour!
Dr. Dennis Nappen & Dr. Holly Nappen
Coronado, CA
India was one of the most unique trips we have undertaken . . . Hands-on personalized experiences with local people; great historic hotels; unusual, adventurous opportunities . . . Odysseys has become our preferred travel company.
Roy & Deirdre Spann
Houston, TX
This was our third trip with Odysseys. You have thought of everything and you are a five-star organization.
Dr. David Fixler & Susan Fixler
Dallas , TX
I have been on many tours, eight tours with Odysseys alone. [This] turned out to be my favorite tour I’ve ever taken . . . I was, in the words of my grandsons, completely ‘blown away’ by every aspect of the tour!
Dr. Dennis Nappen & Dr. Holly Nappen
Coronado, CA
India was one of the most unique trips we have undertaken . . . Hands-on personalized experiences with local people; great historic hotels; unusual, adventurous opportunities . . . Odysseys has become our preferred travel company.
Roy & Deirdre Spann
Houston, TX
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