Day 01 Arrive Delhi By Flight
Arrive Delhi meet-assist at airport with fresh flower garlands & transfer to hotel.
PM: Half day city tour of Delhi. Overnight in Delhi.

Delhi- India’s capital and a major gateway to the country. New Delhi also reflects the legacy the British left behind. The division between New & Old Delhi is the distinction between the capitals of the British & the Moghuls respectively.

Tourist Attractions: Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Built by Shah Jahan, Red Fort, which was also built by Shah Jehan. This massive fort was built from 1638 to 1648, Chandni Chowk and Rajghat – the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Witness the India Gate, The Presidents House & the Parliament, Qutab Minar.

Day 02 Delhi – Amritsar (By Train)
In the morning after breakfast, express train to Amritsar.
On arrival, meet assist and transfer to the hotel.
PM: Visit Amritsar. Overnight in Amritsar.

Amritsar: Popularly believed to have been laid in 1574, the city of Amritsar is one of the most traveled tourist destinations in India due to the existence of several religious sites. Golden Temple: Also called Sri Harmandir Sahib, the Golden Temple was laid by Guru Ram Das in the 14th century. Jalianwala Bagh: it bears testimony to the disaster called Jallianwala Bagh Massacre at the time of the rule of the British Raj. Wagah Border Literally defining the Indo-Pakistan border, Wagah is just 28 km from the main town of Amritsar

Wagah Border Literally defining the Indo-Pakistan border, Wagah is just 28 km from the main town of Amritsar

Day 03 Amritsar – Dharamshala (By Road) (200 Kms. / 4.5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast sightseeing of Amritsar.

Amritsar: Popularly believed to have been laid in 1574, the city of Amritsar is one of the most traveled tourist destinations in India due to the existence of several religious sites.

Golden Temple: Also called Sri Harmandir Sahib, the Golden Temple was laid by Guru Ram Das in the 14th century. It is acclaimed as one of the holiest sites of the Sikhs. Jalianwala Bagh:it bears testimony to the disaster called Jallianwala Bagh Massacre at the time of the rule of the British Raj.
Later leave by private car to Dharamsala, On arrival transfer to hotel.

Day 04 Dharamshala
After breakfast sightseeing of Dharamsala.

Dharamsala, popularly known as the ‘Queen of the Hills’, is divided into lower and upper towns with a difference of 457m1500ft. between them. The mountains enfold 3 sides of the town and the valley stretches to the south. Dharamsala is the headquarters of the Kangra district. It became the capital in 1852 and is 125 years old. An earthquake once wrecked Dharamsala in 1905. Since 1960, it became temporary headquarters of the Dalai Lama and has risen to international repute as “The little Lhasa in India”.

Day 05 Dharamshala – Shimla (By Road) (230 Kms. / 5.5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast leave by private car to Shimla.
On arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Evening, visit famous Mall road of Shimla. Overnight in Hotel.

Day 06 Shimla – Kullu – Manali (By Road) (240 Kms. / 6 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast sightseeing of Shimla.

Shimla- The British called Shimla the “Queen of Hill Stations.” Situated in the north-West Himalayas, Shimla the summer capital of India before independence is now the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla derives its name from “Shyamala”- the goddess Kali. The Mall is the main shopping centre of Shimla. It also has many restaurants, clubs, banks, bars, Post Offices and tourist offices. The Gaiety Theatre is also situated there. People walk up and down the Mall slowly, stopping to gossip, as it is the main meeting place for everyone.

Tourist Attractions:- The Mall, Christ Church, Jakhu Hill, Shimla State Museum, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Summer Hill, Annandale, Sankat Mochan Temple.

PM: Drive to Kullu – Manali. On arrival transfer to hotel and overnight at the hotel in Manali.

Day 07 Manali
After breakfast full day tour of Kullu and Manali. Overnight at the hotel in Manali.

Kullu:- Kullu was once known as Kulanthpitha, which means the end of the habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalayas, and by the banks of the shining river Beas, lay the fabled ‘Silver Valley’. Here is the core of an intricate web of numerous valleys – each of which is a visual delight and seems more beautiful than the other. The mountain scapes remain spectacular whether in brilliant sunshine or in the haze of the mist. The ‘Silver Valley’ has nature’s treasures that lie carelessly scattered as flowers on the high meadows.

Manali: The landscape here is breath taking. One sees well-defined snow capped peaks, the Beas River with its clear water meanders through the town. On the other side are deodar and pine trees, tiny fields and fruit orchards. It is an excellent place for a holiday, a favorite resort for trekkers to Lahaul, Spiti, Kinnaur, Leh and Zanskar regions in Kashmir valley. It is known as the SWITZERLAND OF INDIA.

Day 08 Manali – Keylong (By Road) (120 Kms. / 4.5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive by private vehicle to Keylong, overnight in tent.

PM – City Tour of Keylong

Keylong the capital village of this valley, Keylong is a bustling village & a very interesting market. Walk around Keylong & time permitting walk on the other side of the hill stands the most celebrated monastery of Lahaul called Khardung.

Day 09 Keylong – Sarchu (By Road) (250 Kms. / 5.5 hrs. appx.)
After breakfast drive by private vehicle to Sarchu. On arrival check into your respective hotel/tented accommodation, overnight at Sarchu.

Sarchu- is the border line between Jammu n Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh after 20 Kms drive we enter into Himachal Pradesh and we reach Baralachala pass 4883 Mtrs. here on the top there is a lake known as Surajtal and we will meet first village at Darcha after Rumtze.

Day 10 Sarchu – Lamayuru – Leh (By Road) (270 Kms. / 8 hrs. appx.)
In morning after breakfast, drive to Leh via visit Lamayuru.
On arrival, transfer to hotel. Evening for relax. Overnight at the hotel.

Lamayuru: Often called moonland, Lamayuru has some beautiful mountains capes formed by a drained lake that are unique to the place. The slopes with their soft and creamy appearance were once working as walls of the enormous lake. Lamayuru’s Yung-Drung Gompa stands precariously perched a little high up the village. Visit the gompa, its prayer hall and its monastic school where children study Tibetan scriptures. Lamayuru is also the starting point for the trek to Padum over Sengge La.

Day 11 Leh
After breakfast excursion to Phyang and Spituk overnight at hotel.

Phyang monastery: – It is about 17km. west of Leh is remarkably built on the hilltop, similar to the Likir monastery. This monastery belongs to the Degungpa Order. It was the first monastery, which introduced the Degungpa teaching of ‘Skyob Jigsten Gonbo’ in Ladakh that was founded by Chosje Danma Kunga, during the reign of King Jamyang Namgyal in the 16th Century A.D. It has about 50 monks in residence. Phyang also has a festival called ‘Phyang Tseruk’ on the 2nd & 3rd of the 6th month of Tibetan Calendar.

Spituk:- The gompa stands prominently on the top of a hillock,8 Kms.from Leh, and commands a panaoramic view of the Indus Valley for miles. Many icons of Buddha and five thankas are found in 15th century monastery.There is also a collection of ancient masks, antique arms, and an awe inspiring image of Mahakal.

Day 12 Leh
After breakfast morning drive to Pangong Lake.
PM: Return back from Pangong Lake. overnight at hotel.

More About Leh:- Leh is the fascinating capital of the Autonomous Hill Council of Ladakh, also known as Little Tibet. The important monasteries to visit in and around Leh are Shey, Thiksey, Hemis, Spituk, Samkhar as well as the Shanti Stupa, Stok Palace and main Bazaar. The Leh palace dominating the town was the former home of the Namgyal Dynasty. The monastic festivals are very popular and Hemis, Phyang and Lamayaro festivals in summer are visited by lot of tourists who throng to see the Cham Dances.

Day 13 Leh
After breakfast drive to Lamayuru enroute visit Likir and Alchi. In the evening return back to Leh. Overnight at the hotel in Leh.

The Likir Gompa is Located at a distance of approximately 62 km to the west of Leh, the Likir Monastery dates back to the year 1065. It was during the reign of the fifth king of Ladakh, Lhachen Gyalpo, that Lama Duwang Chosje was offered land for building a monastery. A great champion of meditation, the Lama blessed the site and the monastery was built. The name Likir means “The Naga – Encircled”. The Likir Gompa at Ladakh was so named, as it stands encircled by the bodies of the two great serpent spirits, the Naga-rajas, Nanda and Taksako.

Alchi -Gompa of Ladakh at a distance of 67 kms from Leh dates back to the year 1000 A.D. Built by Rinchen Zangpo, it consists of a number of temples including Rinchen Lhakhang at Lotsa Lhakhang. Alchi Gompa comprises of other temples such as Jamyang Lhakhang Manjusri temple and the Sumtsag Lhakhang. There are a number of Buddhists images and statues of their attendants too in the monastery.

After visit further drive to Lamayuru. On arrival check into your respective tent, overnight at tent.

Day 14 Leh – Delhi (By Flight)
After breakfast transfer to Leh airport for flight to Delhi. Arrive Delhi meet assist at airport and transfer to your respective hotel overnight at hotel.

PM – City Tour of Delhi

Delhi- India’s capital and a major gateway to the country. New Delhi also reflects the legacy the British left behind. The division between New & Old Delhi is the distinction between the capitals of the British & the Moghuls respectively. Tourist Attractions: Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Built by Shah Jahan, Red Fort, which was also built by Shah Jehan. This massive fort was built from 1638 to 1648, Chandni Chowk and Rajghat – the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Witness the India Gate, the Presidents House & the Parliament, Qutab Minar.

Day 15 Depart Delhi (By Flight)
Final departure transfer to Delhi international airport for flight back to home or next destination.

Day 01 Arrive Delhi (By Flight)
Arrival at Delhi airport, transfer to hotel.
Night at the hotel.

Day 02 Delhi – Chandigarh (By Road) (230 Kms. / 4H 30M appx.)
After breakfast, Flight to Chandigarh. Chandigarh, a city known worldwide for its architecture, whose name is still attached to Le Corbusier. He was appointed city architecture advisor in 1950 by the young government of Punjab the day after independence. Visit the famous Rock Garden which covers 12 ha and includes some 1,400 sculpted figures. It is one of the most visited sites in India. At sunset, boat ride on Lake Sukhna.
Night at the hotel.

Day 03 Chandigarh – Shimla (By Road) (110 Kms. / 3H 45M appx.)
After breakfast, Visit of the museum then overview of the buildings: the Secretariat, seat of the government of Punjab, the Assembly and the High Court of Justice these visits are subject to authorization. In the afternoon, drive to Shimla, the summer capital of the British Empire located at 2,130 m, formerly known as “queen of the altitude stations”. The city in Dayd‘hui, capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh, is dominated by forests of pines, oaks and rhododendrons. First stroll to discover the colonial buildings, the mall and the church famous for its stained glass windows built in 1857.
Overnight at the hotel.

Day 04 Shimla
After breakfast, Visit the viceroy’s residence, a beautiful building steeped in history located in a large garden, as well as the Jakhu temple, dedicated to the monkey king Hanuman, perched on the heights of the city. Discovery of the museum and its collection of sculptures.
Free afternoon in the shopping streets of the city.
Night at the hotel.

Day 05 Shimla – Manali (By Road) (250 Kms. / 5H 30M appx.)
After breakfast, In the morning departure to Manali by road, important city of Himachal Pradesh, on the banks of the Beas river, which includes three very distinct parts: the new shopping city, Vashisht and the old Manali, small harbors of peace preserved in wooden houses.
Night at the hotel.

Day 06 Manali
After breakfast, In the morning, visit the Hadimba Devi temples and the Tibetan monastery. In the afternoon, you will discover the Jagatsukh temple, built on a mountainside at an altitude of 1850 m, and Naggar, capital of the valley for 1,500 years. The old wooden houses with the slate-slate roof huddle against each other below the 500-year-old castle you are visiting.
Night at the hotel.

Day 07 Manali
After breakfast, Day of trekking walks around 4 hours in the ancient villages around Manali, the Jogini waterfalls and the village of Vashist known for its cashmere shawls and its temple. You discover around spectacular views of the valley and the city of Manali.
Night at the hotel.

Day 08 Manali – Mandi (By Road) (125 Kms. / 3H 10M appx.)
After breakfast, Road to Mandi, which still retains some beautiful ancient Hindu temples today. “End of the Living World,” which has attracted various populations of Tibetan nomads and refugees. The fertile mountain slopes are suitable for vegetable crops and sheep farming. On the way, stop at Ragunath temples and Basheshar Mahadev Stone Temple, the largest in Kullu Valley.
Continue to Mandi and walk to the bazaar.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 09 Mandi – Dharamsala (By Road) (150 Kms. / 4H 30M appx.)
After breakfast, En route to Dharamsala hanging on the hillside in the Kangra valley. You will discover along the way the green tea plantations of Palampur and splendid mountain landscapes. Further, stop at the temple dedicated to Shiva of Baijnath. Arrival in Dharamsala and first stroll in the village of Mcleodganj, current residence of the Dalai Lama where 10,000 Tibetan refugees live. Prayer wheels, colorful pennants, the presence of many monks make you enter another India, closer to Tibetan culture. In the evening, visit the temple of Bhagsu.
Night at the hotel.

Day 10 Dharamsala
After breakfast, Visit the Tsuglakhang temple where the Dalai Lama lives, a fine example of Tibetan architecture. It houses magnificent frescoes by Sâkyamuni and Bodhisattvas, as well as precious manuscripts. Discovery of the Norbulingka Institute which works to perpetuate Buddhist culture: paintings of tangkas, wood carvings closed on Sunday and 2nd Saturday of each month as well as for all Tibetan festivals … Discovery of Saint John Church, the Tibetan medical institute and library. For walkers, very nice walks on well-marked paths are possible from the city.
In the evening, stroll through the bazaar of Mcleodganj with numerous stalls.
Night at the hotel.

Day 11 Dharamsala – Amritsar (By Road) (200 Kms. / 4H 30M appx.)
After breakfast, Departure for Amritsar. At lunchtime, you can attend the community kitchen service in the temple: several thousand meals consisting of chapati and lentils are served every day for free to pilgrims. In the heart of the city, the golden domes of the most sacred of Sikh temples are reflected in the waters of the basin. It was the great and tolerant Mughal emperor Akbar who helped build this wonder from 1588 to 1601. The Adi Granth, the holy book of Sikhism, was deposited there shortly after. Since then, the priests have taken turns to chant their sacred texts continuously. At the end of the afternoon, you will attend with a large number of faithful the ceremony of the solemn deposit of the sacred book for the night. Music and songs accompany this highlight of temple life.
Night at the hotel.

Day 12 Amritsar
After breakfast, if you are early in the morning, sunrise at the Golden Temple. Discovery of Jallian Wala Bagh Park which commemorates the terrible Day of 1919 when 2,000 Indians were killed or wounded by the British. In the afternoon, transfer to the Pakistan border for the border closing ceremony. Indian and Pakistani soldiers meet each evening in front of their respective supporters for this event. With their torsos bulging, frowns and fists clenched, the soldiers execute an intimidating parade punctuated by the dry orders of the officers. For almost 40 minutes, they parade in full blows of boots and guards.
Night at the hotel.

Day 13 Amritsar – Delhi (By Flight)
After breakfast, Flight to Delhi. Visit the interesting museum of art and crafts which presents a fine collection of sculptures and textiles from all over India. Soothing stop at Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, the capital’s great Sikh temple. Shopping at the Dilli Haat market.
Night at the hotel.

Day 14 Depart Delhi (By Flight)
Departure transfer to Delhi International airport for flight to onward destination.

Day 01 Arrive Delhi (By Flight)
Arrive in Delhi.
Meet assist at the airport and transfer to the hotel.

This morning visit Old Delhi.
Begin your day with an exploration starting in Old Delhi, visiting the Jama Masjid, the royal mosque built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in 1656. It is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world and is constructed in red sandstone and white marble. The main prayer hall has a seating capacity of more than 20,000 worshippers.

Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, the spine of Old Delhi. Jahanara Begum, the daughter of Shah Jahan designed this commercial place in 1648. Drive past Red Fort, a UNESCO World heritage site.

Walk through the by-lanes of the wedding street and the jeweller’s lane to savour a 350 years old culture up-close.

Culminate the tour at the Spice Market also known as Khari Baoli. It is Asia’s largest wholesale spice market. At present, the street is a congested and busy market with shops on both sides selling spices, nuts and herbs. You will have a unique experience here viewing the whole process of loading, carrying or unloading of huge sacks of items from manual trolleys, shopkeepers busy dealing with the customers, customers selecting large quantities of items and weary labourers resting and chatting aloud. The overall appearance seems to be very chaotic but in reality it is very well managed! There will be great photo opportunities here!!!

Thereafter visit Chor Bizarre restaurant for lunch. Savour ‘Wazwan’ cuisine, from Kashmir. The restaurant has a unique concept and all kinds of wares find their way here (with or without the consent of the owners!).

The traditional Wazwan consist of thirty-six courses! Each dish has its own tradition and brings to mind memories of events such as festivals and wedding feasts. Other than on special occasions, it is very seldom that all thirty-six courses are laid out, but eating twenty odd courses on a regular basis is quite common. The attendants pass around ‘Tasha-t-Nair’ so that you can wash your hands. It would be sacrilege to use anything but your fingers to eat this meal. People sit in fours (considered auspicious) to share sustenance with dear ones over a ‘Tarami’ (large plate). The Tarami arrives with rice and the first few courses. Each successive course follows separately to allow you to savour its distinct flavour. At the end ‘Kahwah’ is served, the aroma of which leaves you with the lingering memories of ‘Wazwan’

Afternoon Drive past the Rashtrapati Bhawan (Presidential Palace) where the Viceroy once lived but now it is the official residence of the President of India.

Next on the itinerary visit Qutab Minar – a UNESCO World heritage site, a soaring tower of victory, 72.5meter high with five distinct stories. The construction of this minaret commenced in 1193 and was completed in 1368.

Culminate the tour at Humayun’s Tomb – a UNESCO World heritage site, the first great example of Mughal architecture in India, it developed to become the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.

Day 02 Delhi – Amritsar (By Flight)
Arrive at Amritsar International airport. Our representative along with your English speaking tour escorts will meet you outside the customs gate and escort you to your hotel in an air-conditioned Deluxe Large Bus. (Approximately 30 minutes drive to the hotel).
Amritsar – is the second largest town in the state of Punjab. It is known to be as a cultural and spiritual centre for Sikh religion. It was founded in year 1574 by Guru Ram Das – the fourth guru of the Sikhs. The city is named after the sacred pool around the Golden Temple- Amritsar meaning ‘Pool of Nectar’. People from all over the world come to pay their reverence to Guru Granth Sahib and take a dip in the holy water for spiritual purification.
Hotel check-in time is 12:00 noon. Rooms will be pre-assigned with VIP amenities. At the hotel you are welcomed with a traditional Indian welcome of Aarti- tikka- garland. Afterwards relax with Champagne welcome drink.

Set in the heart of this historic city, close to the Golden Temple, Illuminated by the speckle of lights and incandescent candles, the atmosphere is best absorbed in tranquility. The haveli, like ‘the breath’ which inspires the name ‘svaasá’, breathes in life; perfect for those seeking exclusiveness spiced by the signature SVAASÁ touch.
Light snacks or dinner at the hotel depending on the arrival time.

Day 03 Amritsar
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a city orientation tour of Amritsar.

Begin your tour with a visit to the Golden Temple. Located in the heart of the city, it is of the holiest religious shrine of Sikh Religion. Characterized by its four entrance doors in all four directions and tastefully decorated shrine, the Golden Temple welcomes everyone regardless of their religion or faith. The stunning sanctum, shimmering in the water of the holy tank, flanked by spotlessly clean marble walkways and pavements makes it breathtakingly beautiful.

A private audience with the chief priest will be arranged (subject to his prior commitments).
Visit the Community Kitchen where food is served free of cost all day and night to thousands of people!! Enjoy a volunteer

experience in the community kitchen. Prepare and serve a meal for people from all walks of ontinue to Jallianwalah Bagh, a historical monument of national importance which immortalizes the massacre of innocent women and children on 13th April 1919. Visit the Martyr’s Gallery to pay homage to those who lost their lives in one of the worst carnages of its times.

Enjoy a street cuisine experience near the Temple. The walled city around the Golden Temple, the oldest part of Amritsar, is a heaven for food lovers!

Recommended: A lunch of chole kulche transformed to a gourmet meal AT Kanhaiya Dhaba and the very special local dish-GHUR KA HALVA.

Late afternoon leave for an excursion to Wagah border (India-Pakistan Border) to witness the “Change of Guard” ceremony (45 minutes drive). Indian and Pakistani soldiers march to a very enthusiastic crowd and the flags are lowered with great skill and precision. Dinner will be at Surjeet, mentioned in Lonely Planet and a favourite with Bollywood stars. Instead of the small fish shop that he started out with near the railway station, there is now a new “restaurant”, air-conditioned, where you can sample Surjeet Singh’s delicacies.

Day 04 Amritsar–Delhi (By Flight)/Delhi–Panipat–Delhi (3 Hours – One Way)
Optional:- activity: Early morning revisit the Golden Temple to witness the opening prayer ceremony which begins at approximately 4:30am!
Later transfer to the domestic airport for your flight to Delhi.

Upon arrival you will be met by our representative who will escort you directly to Panipat-a thriving town in bordering Haryana State and a three hours drive, depending on road conditions.

In Panipat you will visit Bal Vikas, a local school that runs a dedicated program for underprivileged children of the town. This program is run under the umbrella of The Raj Charitable Trust funded entirely by the Nath family – one of the prominent industrialists of Panipat. Vikram has taken up the challenge of further helping the school in its efforts to provide the children with sustainable life skills by developing a dedicated “cooking program” which will prepare the children for jobs in the restaurant and hospitality sectors, enhancing their lives with opportunities for a brighter future and a way out of poverty.

You will meet with local organizers and administrators of this program as well as the children who will benefit by your donations and Vikram’s initiative. The first donation will be made here today at a small ceremony. Enjoy lunch with children, their teachers and Mrs. Vasundhara Nath, the driving force behind this extraordinary school. Return to Delhi late in the evening.

Day 05 Delhi – Lucknow (By Flight)
This morning transfer to domestic airport in time for your flight to Lucknow.
Lucknow is a 2500 year-old city with magnificent gardens, crumbling mausoleums, “imambaras” (tombs of Muslim priests) and ruins of what were once regal residences. The legacy of the imperial splendour of Lucknow has always fascinated people all over the world. The ambience of Awadh is commonly associated with leisurely habits, etiquette, architecture, food and refinement – all a legacy of Nawabi culture. Over the years the city has preserved this spirit of the bygone era.

Enjoy an exclusive cooking session with the hotel chef who would give you an insight into Awadhi Cuisine. You would have an opportunity to indulge in a cooking class and learn the art of making fine kababs!
Lunch will be at the hotel. Sample the recipes demonstrated by the Chef.

Remainder of the afternoon will be at leisure. A shopping tour for local chikan fabrics and dresses will be arranged for those who wish to explore the markets.

Evening (1800 hrs), proceed for a Street Cuisine Tour of Lucknow to indulge pampering of taste buds. Start with Shri Lassi and move to Kaleji Kabab, Rahim’s Kulche Nihari, Mobeen’s Pasanda Kabab, and Tunde’s Gilawat Kabab and finally to sweeten the mouth with the Silver foiled Malai Gilori at Radhey’s. End this meal with local “Paan” Betel leaf with areca nut. Paan is chewed as a palate cleanser and a breath freshener. It is offered to guests and visitors as a sign of hospitality and at the beginning of social events. It has a symbolic value at ceremonies and cultural events in India.
Return to hotel.

Day 06 Lucknow
This morning visit the architectural marvel La Martiniere School that was designed by the Frenchman Major-General Claude Martin as a palatial home. Also visit Dilkusha Palace and gardens -built by Sadat Ali Khan as his hunting lodge and a summer retreat. This place also witnessed some very crucial moments in 1857 uprising.

Continue to Lucknow Residency a place where speechless walls are known to speak the gruesome tale of the 1857 mutiny. The sprawling British campus witnessed nothing less than 3000 deaths to keep the Union Jack flying. Yet the British could not defend their domain and the buildings were lost to the high spirited and enthusiastic Indians who fought till their last breath.

The trees, bullet sprinkled walls, unusable canons, worn out firearms all mourn lives lost here. We also visit the graveyard to pay homage to named and unnamed soldiers who gave up their lives in the defence of The Residency.

Today lunch will be at a nice local Restaurant Royal Cafe. Your host for today will be a well known localite. He or she will share his or her rich experiences and explain the history of Lucknow.

Post lunch continue sightseeing tour of Lucknow visiting Bara Imambara. This monument was built as a relief measure for a devastating famine, in order to provide employment to the subjects of the state by Nawab Asif-ud-Daula. This is the world’s biggest hall measuring 8500 sq. ft, with a 50-foot high ceiling, and does not have a single beam to support it. It is known for its simplicity of style, sheer proportion, symmetry and unique acoustic qualities. Also see the ‘Rumi Darwaza’ or the Turkish Gate and the Asfi Mosque.

Tongas (horse driven passenger carriages) wait to welcome you on board when you come out of this grand complex. On the bumpy ride of this transport system of yesteryears you reach the Husainabad Complex – The Clock Tower is the highest Clock Tower in Asia and in some ways superior to its counterpart, ‘Big Ben’. Visit the Husainabad Imambara, known for its beauty and pieces of décor. It was built in 1840 by Mohammad Ali Shah and is still considered to be a sacred address by the natives. The interior is lavishly decorated with huge chandeliers, gilded mirrors, colourful stucco and Tazias in sandalwood, wax and zari.
Today dinner will be at the residence of the Nawab of Lucknow.

Awadhi Cuisine” is famous world over for its Kababs, breads and rich cuisine. “Kacche Keeme ke Kababs” (Raw meat of Lamb finely ground and then fried) and “Biryani” (rice preparation) along with the Galauati and Kakori Kababs are the favorite dishes of Lucknowites.

The Nawab of Lucknow would welcome you to his family home and museum that houses antiques and artifacts. After the customary greetings – ‘Aadab’, the guests are seated in his decked-up family museum that houses antiques and artifacts inherited by him. After a short introduction to his family guests are served with a soft beverage called ‘Sharbet’ (herbal or fruit preparation made differently in different seasons). Later we get into an informal chat with the host and his family, talking to them on diverse topics ranging from art, culture, cuisine, craft, architecture and history.

We then move to the kitchen to learn some secret recipes from the Awadhi menu and finally to the dining hall where our host himself serves us with Awadhi delicacies on the floor setting called ‘Dastarkhwan’. Try out different Kebabs, Korma, Saalan, Pulao, Biryani, Sheermal, Rumali Roti, Roghni, Shahi Tuqda and Phirni. The meal here ends with ‘Paan’ and a lot of knowledge about cooking, serving and eating these exotic preparations.

Day 07 Lucknow – Varanasi (By Flight)
Morning transfer to domestic airport in time for your flight to Varanasi.
Meet & greet by our representative and transfer to your hotel.

Varanasi -The antiquity of Varanasi is veiled in immortal times and has been the centre of religion, learning and civilization since ages. The city gets its inherent charm from the location as it’s situated on the west side of the Holy Ganges. The principal attraction are the bathing Ghats which are always, bustling with life at any given time of the day.

In the afternoon visit Sarnath, a major Buddhist centre in the world. After achieving enlightenment at Bodhgaya, Buddha, the ‘Awakened One’, delivered his first sermon here. It was 6th century then, when he also set in motion the wheel of law, the Dharmachakra by initiating his first five disciples into Buddhist monkshood.

Dhamekh Stupa at Sarnath is an imposing cylindrical structure (43.5m high) of the Gupta age, partly built of stone and partly of brick. Its stone basement has eight projecting faces with large niches for statuary and is further adorned with delicately carved floral and geometrical patterns. Also visit the archaeological museum at Sarnath.

Time permitting experience a special meeting with the monks and take part in a Buddhist meditation session.

A spiritual discourse on Hinduism and the sacred river Ganges will be arranged. Later visit the ghats (bathing steps) of the Ganges by candle-lit boats and witness the intriguing ‘Aarti’ Ceremony (collective prayer). Observe the mystical scene of Ghats lit with oil-lamp lights, Brahmans chanting the hymns and numerous floating oil lamps.
Return to hotel.
Dinner will be at the hotel.

Day 08 Varanasi
Early morning, enjoy boat cruise on the river Ganges. This time to see thousands of pilgrims and devotees worshipping the rising sun! At sunrise, the scene of pilgrims doing their rituals and paying offerings to the River Ganges, set against the back drop of the centuries old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world.

It is a centuries old tradition and belief that by dying in Varanasi or by immersing the mortal remains in the Holy Ganges, it clears one from the birth circle and you are incarnated to human life in the next birth. Sail past all the ghats and stop at the important ones. The riverfront, as seen from a boat, early in the morning, is a spiritually uplifting sight.

Optional activity: stop at one of the Ghats for an early morning session of Yoga with a leading exponent
Return to hotel for breakfast.

Enjoy an unusual walking tour through the old town of Benaras with its centuries old temples, The Well of Knowledge, it maze of little lanes with teeming bazaars selling flowers, brocade and other temple offerings.

Discover the finger licking delicacies that Varanasi is renowned for. After an early morning dip pilgrims congregate in the lanes of Varanasi to enjoy their favourite dishes. In this experience you will follow in the footsteps of these pilgrims with an expert.

You will visit traditional food stalls and at each stop you will unravel the history, traditions, and culture behind the “house specialties”.

Highlights
– Kachauri Gali with its sweet and savory fried delicacies
– Wholesale condensed milk market of Khoa Gali
– Milk and yogurt based drinks
– Paan, a traditional digestive and a local specialty

Return to hotel for lunch.
Late afternoon experience the multi-hued arts and crafts of Varanasi. Accompanied with an expert you will visit the weaver colony and the wholesale sari market to observe the influence the local culture and religion has had on the life and work of the craftsmen. You will meet toy makers; see badges and epaulettes being stitched using traditional zari (gold and silver thread) work, and brass utensils being made.
Return to hotel for dinner.

Vegetarian dinner at Amrit Rao Peshwa Haveli.
Disembark at the Rajghat for a splendid evening with the theme “Relive Benares” at Amrit Rao Peshwa Haveli – a heritage mansion built in 1807 as a Brahmin refectory to feed the Brahmins (priests). The entire Haveli with the adjoining temple complex is illuminated and aesthetically decorated all around with lights, flowers and earthen diyas (oil-lamps). Thousands of diyas are set afloat on the river. Enjoy the special evening with Vedic chants by priests and a classical dance performance. A magical and once in a lifetime experience of spiritual & traditional Varanasi!

Day 09 Varanasi – Kolkata (By Flight)
This morning enjoy a temple tour visiting the Kashi-Vishwanath Temple, the most sacred of all shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of the city. More than the Ghats and even the Ganga, the Shivalinga installed in the temple remains the devotional focus of Varanasi. It is open only to Hindus. Continue to the Bharat Mata Mandir, opened by Mahatma Gandhi and dedicated to ‘Mother India’. This simple temple has a perfect relief map of India carved out of marble instead of gods and goddesses.

The tour culminates at Beanaras Hindu University. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the peaceful and beautiful campus of the largest residential university in Asia. Here interesting buildings, lush green grounds, and massive old mango tree lined roads await you. Your expert will introduce you to the basic tenants of Hinduism at the new Vishwanath temple and help you explore the art and archaeological collection of the Bharat Kala Bhavan, the university’s museum.

Post lunch, our local representative will escort you to domestic airport for your flight to Kolkata.

Dominique Lapierre’s ‘City of Joy,’ the city of Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta is more than 300 years old. This span has witnessed its development into one of the world’s most densely peopled metropolises.
It still retains the aura of days long gone, weaving the past and the present, the intense and the fun loving into a charming fabric. Home to four Nobel laureates – Ronald Ross, Rabindranath Tagore, Mother Teresa and Amartya Sen. There is something undoubtedly special about Calcutta. It amalgamates the traditional and the modern, and brings the intense and the frivolous together. At one level Calcutta is always in transition, and at another, it is firmly anchored to a tradition and culture quite uniquely its own. The city is a noted cultural centre, famed for its cinema, poetry, music, art and cinema. Kolkata offers some wonderful memorabilia of the British Raj.

Meet & greet on arrival by our representative who will escort you to your hotel-

This heritage combines classic architecture and charm with state of the art amenities and facilities, offering guests an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city. The hotel features elegantly appointed rooms, equipped with all modern facilities blending uniquely with the colonial architecture.

On arrival, check in to your rooms.
Dinner will be at the hotel.
A special guest will be your host today (member of a local prominent family) who will give you an insight about the local customs, culture and traditions.

Day 10 Kolkata
Morning visit the famous flower market on the banks of River Hoogly. Also visit to the spice / masala market, wholesale fruit market at Machua, and finally the Burra Bazar. This market feeds the entire eastern part of the country (All the markets are closed on Sunday).

Later enjoy a heritage walk around the Dalhousie Square. Beginning at the imposing Kolkata High Court Building, the Government House (Raj Bhawan) – it was once the residence of the British Viceroy in India. Not far away are other fine examples of Raj architecture: the Town Hall, Writers’ Building (the old East India Company office) and St. John’s Church.

Later visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, the most important church of the city was constructed by Bishop Wilson in 1847 and is the first Episcopal Church of the East.

Further continue to Victoria Memorial. Built by the British in 1921, it is a treasure trove of Raj Relics, offers tree-lined walks in splendid parks, ”lakes” and houses a number of statues and busts of eminent people including that of Queen Victoria. The exhibits include paintings, manuscripts, firearms, statues, lithographs and furniture (Closed on Monday & all national holidays).

Culminate the tour at Indian Museum – one of the finest museums in Asia; it has an excellent collection of art, as well as fossils and meteorites. It was established in 1814, the building has beautiful structure. The oldest museum in India, it has one of the rarest collections of archaeological importance. Some of the coins in the collection are about 2400 years old (Closed on Monday & all national holidays).

Lunch will be at the famous local restaurant – Aaheli.
Continue further on a street cuisine experience in new market area.

To the casual palate, Bengali food is synonymous with rice and fish, both available in abundance in this large monsoon drenched eastern state. What Bengal has in common with her west coast cousins is the use of coconut and coconut milk, but unlike in other coastal kitchens the preferred cooking medium is mustard oil, not coconut oil.

The food is delicately flavoured, spiced and inventive, rounded off with the famous Bengali Mithai (sweets). Some well known dishes include Kosher Mangsho (delicately spiced, slow cooked lamb curry accompanied by luchi – a most delicious fluffy bread), Prawn Malai curry (creamy spiced prawn curry), smoked boneless river fish (hilsa) and bekti (a larger riverfish) mustard curry and the wonderful mishti dahi (a creamy sweet caramel yoghurt prepared in individual clay pots). The hidden secrets that can be found in Calcutta are the highlights of a visit to this city – particularly in the company of those who ‘know’!
Special Indian Cuisine Dinner with a local family

This is a distinct cuisine pioneered by the Indian community (people with mixed British and Indian ancestry). It represents a delicious blend of East and West where traditional British dishes are fused with Indian flavours. In this experience you will work with a culinary expert to learn to cook some of the dishes that have come to define this cuisine. During the course of the evening, you will gain hands on experience with the cooking implements, techniques, and ingredients used in an Indian kitchen. You will get to appreciate Anglo Indian cuisine like never before and enjoy all that is best about Indian hospitality.

Day 11 Kolkata–Bagdogra (By Flight)/Bagdogra–Darjeeling (95 Km/3H 50M)
This morning enjoy a specially customized cultural tour.

We start with the visit to the Kali Temple, then move on to the College Street Book Market (Asia’s largest Book Market) with a visit to the Coffee Shop (built during the British Raj) to see the young Turks, artists gossiping. Later move on to Kumartully (Potters village) to see the artist making the idols of Gods.
Later, our representative will escort you to domestic airport for your flight to Baghdogra.

Darjeeling conjures visions of serenity, of vibrant green hills steeped in splendour, a land of breathtaking beauty crowned by the majestic Himalayas. It is one of the most magnificent hill resorts in the world. This heavenly retreat is bathed in hues of every shade. The flaming red rhododendrons, the sparkling white magnolias, the miles of undulating hillsides covered with emerald green tea bushes, the exotic forests of silver fir – all under the blanket of a brilliant azure sky dappled with specks of clouds, compellingly crowns Darjeeling as the Queen of Hill Stations.
Arrive in Darjeeling and check in to your hotel.

Day 12 Darjeeling
Early morning enjoy an excursion to Tiger Hill and Ghoom Monastery.

Tiger Hill: – Located 13 kms from Darjeeling and one can see beautiful sunrise and Himalayan Range like Kanchandzonga, Mount Everest etc. One can see the horizon changing colors just before sunrise and then the entire Himalayan range turn golden. It is truly a majestic sight.

Ghoom Monastery: – This is oldest Monastery in the area which was built in 1875 and one can see the image of Mythey Buddha 15ft. height on the way back from Tiger Hill.

Return to hotel for breakfast.
Later leave for a Toy Train experience to Kurseong.
The Darjeeling Toy Train – a UNESCO World heritage site

The spectacular landscape unfolds as the 2-foot gauge Darjeeling Himalayan railway, opened in 1881, labours at about 10 mph criss-crossing the road. It has tiny 4-wheel locomotives (some over 100 years old) like living legends. One can experience the sound, smell and romance of a bygone era. DHR is a work of genius and technological achievement of 1881. It has social and cultural importance. It is beautiful and has outstanding universal appeal. Based on its unique features, it is considered to be of lasting significance to mankind.
Arrive Kurseong and drive to Goomtee Tea Estate for Lunch.

Goomtee Tea Estate: – Teas grown on the misty heights of Darjeeling, popularly known as the ‘Champagne of Tea’ are famous world over for their exquisite taste. The premium Darjeeling teas are mild in character and have distinctive natural fruity flavours. The different steps in Tea manufacture can be seen in the factory of Gomtee Tea Estate.
Later visit the factory followed by a tea tasting session.

Dinner will be at the hotel. A prominent local personality will be your host who will share his experiences on the local history and culture during dinner.

Day 13 Darjeeling
After breakfast continue your city tour as you visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park – (Closed on Thursdays).

The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was started in Darjeeling when Tenzing Norgay climbed Everest to give mountaineering training and to learn other adventure sports related to mountaineering. Here you will see equipment used by Mr. Tenzing Norgay. The Everest Museum provides details on the famous Everest Peak and is attached to institute. Visit Himalayan Zoological Park where one can see Himalayan animals like Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolf, Tibetan Yak, Himalayan Black Bear and several varieties of birds.

Continue to Tibetan Self- Help Centre Or Refugee Centre: – (Closed on Sundays). This institute is run by Tibetan Refugees to preserve their handicrafts and one can see making of Tibetan Carpets, Leather work, Paintings and Wooden work etc

Today lunch will be at The Glengarry’s, a famous local restaurant.

Afternoon visit the local markets to experience some interesting street cuisine including Momos at Penangs – Penangs is highly acclaimed for its momos and even features in the lonely planet guide.
Return to the hotel for the evening tea.

Dinner will be with a local family – Authentic Nepalese cuisine. It will be an idle opportunity for the guests to interact with locals and know about their beliefs, traditions, family values, myths and realism of the life!

Day 14 Darjeeling–Bagdogra (95 Km/3H 50M) / Bagdogra–Delhi (By Flight)
This morning return to Bagdogra for your afternoon flight to Delhi.
On arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Delhi.

Day 15 Depart Delhi 
Departure transfer to Delhi international airport for flight to onward destination.

Day 01 Arrive Delhi (By Flight)
Arrive in Delhi.
Meet assist at the airport and transfer to the hotel.

This morning visit Old Delhi.
Begin your day with an exploration starting in Old Delhi, visiting the Jama Masjid, the royal mosque built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in 1656. It is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world and is constructed in red sandstone and white marble. The main prayer hall has a seating capacity of more than 20,000 worshippers.

Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, the spine of Old Delhi. Jahanara Begum, the daughter of Shah Jahan designed this commercial place in 1648. Drive past Red Fort, a UNESCO World heritage site.

Walk through the by-lanes of the wedding street and the jeweller’s lane to savour a 350 years old culture up-close.

Culminate the tour at the Spice Market also known as Khari Baoli. It is Asia’s largest wholesale spice market. At present, the street is a congested and busy market with shops on both sides selling spices, nuts and herbs. You will have a unique experience here viewing the whole process of loading, carrying or unloading of huge sacks of items from manual trolleys, shopkeepers busy dealing with the customers, customers selecting large quantities of items and weary labourers resting and chatting aloud. The overall appearance seems to be very chaotic but in reality it is very well managed! There will be great photo opportunities here!!!

Thereafter visit Chor Bizarre restaurant for lunch. Savour ‘Wazwan’ cuisine, from Kashmir. The restaurant has a unique concept and all kinds of wares find their way here (with or without the consent of the owners!).

The traditional Wazwan consist of thirty-six courses! Each dish has its own tradition and brings to mind memories of events such as festivals and wedding feasts. Other than on special occasions, it is very seldom that all thirty-six courses are laid out, but eating twenty odd courses on a regular basis is quite common. The attendants pass around ‘Tasha-t-Nair’ so that you can wash your hands. It would be sacrilege to use anything but your fingers to eat this meal. People sit in fours (considered auspicious) to share sustenance with dear ones over a ‘Tarami’ (large plate). The Tarami arrives with rice and the first few courses. Each successive course follows separately to allow you to savour its distinct flavour. At the end ‘Kahwah’ is served, the aroma of which leaves you with the lingering memories of ‘Wazwan’

Afternoon Drive past the Rashtrapati Bhawan (Presidential Palace) where the Viceroy once lived but now it is the official residence of the President of India.

Next on the itinerary visit Qutab Minar – a UNESCO World heritage site, a soaring tower of victory, 72.5meter high with five distinct stories. The construction of this minaret commenced in 1193 and was completed in 1368.

Culminate the tour at Humayun’s Tomb – a UNESCO World heritage site, the first great example of Mughal architecture in India, it developed to become the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.

Day 02 Delhi – Ahmedabad (By Flight)
Spend today at leisure. The Imperial is centrally located meaning that many of Delhi’s sites are a walk or short taxi ride away. Later today you will be transferred from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Ahmedabad.

Day 03 Ahmedabad
Without question, Ahmedabad is the best city to start your culinary journey. Visit Gandhi Ashram and Hathising Jain Temple in the morning and the Utensils Museum in the afternoon and get a demonstration of Gujarati Snacks. Thaali dinner at Agashiye.

Day 04 Ahmedabad
Drive to Modhera Sun Temple en route to Patan and the Patan Rani ni Vav. Drive back to Ahmedabad. Enjoy dinner at Navrangpura, followed by an evening street food tour.

Day 05 Ahmedabad – Delhi (By Flight)
After breakfast, Heritage walk in the Old City in the morning.
Take an afternoon flight to Delhi.
Have dinner at Indian Accent restaurant in The Manor Hotel Delhi.

Day 06 Delhi – Amritsar (By Flight)
Take an early morning flight to Amritsar.
Morning visit to the Golden Temple followed by an afternoon visit to an organic farm, have a tandoor demonstration, and end with a visit to the India – Pakistan border. On the way back to the city, stop at a restaurant for dinner near the border and watch the making of various kinds of kebabs in the traditional tandoor.

Day 07 Amritsar 
Take a village excursion to get an experience of rural India.
Visit a Papad making unit.
Overnight in Amritsar.

Day 08 Amritsar – Kolkata (By Flight)
After breakfast you will get your flight to Calcutta via Delhi. This evening enjoy dinner at a traditional Bengali home.

Day 09 Kolkata
Breakfast at Flury’s, a tearoom which transports you back to the 1930s British India in a heartbeat. Have a photo walk in Dalhousie Square and lunch in a Chinese restaurant; the Chinese community are an important part of Calcutta’s past and present. Enjoy an afternoon private boat cruise on the River Hoogly.

Day 10 Kolkata
Enjoy a morning food walk tour in a traditional bazaar followed by an introduction to the story of tea in India with an optional visit to Kumartuli / shopping in the afternoon. Tonight, have a formal dinner at the Bengal Club.

Day 11 Kolkata – Hyderabad (By Flight)
Fly to Hyderabad and check in a the Taj Falaknuma Palace. Have lunch at a local restaurant to experience three regions on a plate.
Downtime and optional shopping in the afternoon.

Day 12 Hyderabad
This morning take a food walk of the Old City, followed by ‘The Biryani Tour’. In the afternoon take a Palace Tour and take High Tea at your hotel, the majestic Taj Falaknuma Palace.

Day 13 Hyderabad
A la Carte Cooking Lessons in the morning. Next, visit a beautiful home in the heart of the Old City where you will learn about the concept of fasting vs feasting while sampling dishes. Over cups of hot masala tea, the hostess will describe the role of women during festivals and the food traditions associated with them. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before a special farewell dinner.

Day 14 Depart Hyderabad (By Flight)
Departure transfer to Delhi international airport for flight to onward destination.