Majestic India and Istanbul

Welcome to India! Delhi is a monumental city with a vibrant mix of old and new teeming bazaars, British boulevards, powerful Mughal palaces and forts, and intricate, ethereal towers, temples, and tombs. Upon arrival at Delhi International Airport, you will be met and assisted by our company representative and transferred to your hotel.




Overnight in Delhi

Today you will tour the old and new counterparts of Delhi. Get ready to visit Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhis serene and evocative cremation site, India Gate (the War Memorial) and the Presidents House (from the outside), and the Bahai Lotus Temple (closed on Mondays); this lotus-shaped marvel in marble is a symbol of peace. From there you will continue your tour to the Qutub Minar, a stunning 240-foot brick minaret, the tallest in the world surrounded by an elaborate complex built in the Indo-Islamic architectural tradition. Drive to the medieval city of Agra, home to the world-famous Taj Mahal. Agra is one of the prime tourist spots in India for this reason, although its attractions also extend to a wide range of other historical sights. The Taj, however, is in a league of its own and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 15th century as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is an architectural masterpiece of exquisite craftsmanship and perfect proportions. Enjoy your evening at leisure (no services offered). You may explore the citys hidden alleyways and lively spice markets, hop on a cycle rickshaw, and admire colorful Hindu temples and traditional mosques. Or you may visit a local restaurant to enjoy incredible Indian food.




Overnight in Agra

Visit the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). Considered the pinnacle of Mughal art in India, the Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. When declaring it a World Heritage Site, UNESCO described it as “the jewel of Muslim art in India”. Few words can describe the magnificence of this monument. Marvel over the transforming light and colors of this breathtaking monument in the beautiful dawn glow. Return to your hotel and later take a marble craftsmanship demonstration.




Overnight in Agra

Drive to Jaipur with an en-route visit to Fatehpur Sikri — an eerily abandoned capital from the Mughal Empire between 1570 and 1586. Akbar built this city to celebrate the birth of his son and future heir to the throne, Emperor Jahangir. While Akbar is believed to have been illiterate, he took great interest in the arts and architecture; Fatehpur Sikri is one of his famous works. Sadly, it served as the capital for little more than a decade and was eventually abandoned for a lack of access to water. Later, take a demonstration of gem-cutting and polishing. In the evening you will check in to the hotel upon arrival. Jaipur, Rajasthans capital is also known as the Pink City. The origin of this nickname will become immediately apparent as you enter the old city walls and greet the pink-colored buildings rising at every turn.




Overnight in Jaipur

Begin your day with an exhilarating excursion to Amber Fort. Perched on a hillside on the outskirts of town, the palace was constructed in the 1590s by Maharaja Man Singh, the commander of Akbars army, and was largely motivated by the highly defensible location. This is a beautiful and very well-preserved structure, built on four levels and surrounded by ruins, which served as the backdrop for the Mira Nair movie “Kama Sutra: A Tale of Love.” Spend your afternoon at leisure or perhaps join our optional tour.




Overnight in Jaipur

Before breakfast, join the optional tour of Hot Air Ballooning over Jaipur at sunrise. This morning you will drive to Pushkar, a sacred city for Hindus. Surrounded by hills on three sides and dunes on the fourth, Pushkar boasts a fascinating location and a befitting backdrop for the annual religious and cattle fair (held in November). As a quiet and secluded desert town for 51 weeks a year, for just a few days it transitions into an incredible and authentic extravaganza during the annual Pushkar Fair. Drawing people from all around the world, this is also possibly the largest camel and cattle-trading fair in the world. Upon arrival in Pushkar, you will check in to your hotel. Head on a walking tour of the holy city of the God, Brahma; visit the Pushkar Lake and the famous 8th century Brahma Temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe and the only bull temple in the world. Experience a special Pooja ceremony at a Ghat with a Hindu priest on the banks of Pushkar Lake.




Overnight in Pushkar

After breakfast, you will drive to Udaipur. Udaipur is a majestic city of lakes and palaces. Founded by Maharana Udai Singh in 1559 and fondly referred to as Rajasthans most romantic city, its rich history is matched by its picturesque setting among the Aravalli Mountains and three manmade lakes. Upon arrival in Udaipur, you will check in to your hotel. After a short period of rest, choose to explore the city on your own or join our optional tour.




Overnight in Udaipur

Your day will begin at the City Palace, overlooking the blue waters of Lake Pichola. Maharana Udai Singh initiated construction in 1559 A.D., which was subsequently expanded, with impressive uniformity, by several succeeding Maharanas. The palace boasts plenty of beautiful courtyards and gardens. The main hall has been converted into a museum, housing opulent artifacts and original works of art. Inside the complex you will find the exquisite crystal gallery, exhibiting 19th-century pieces including crystal chandeliers, tables, sofas, and beds. We will continue walking to the Jagdish Temple to study its many remarkable friezes. Lavishly built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh, it is easy to understand why Jagdish is the most respected Hindu temple in Udaipur. Afterward, we will explore the Old City, wandering through the bustling streets lined with art shops, spice vendors, tailors, and more.




Overnight in Udaipur

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Udaipur Airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon your arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.




Overnight in Delhi

After breakfast, you will be transferred to New Delhi International Airport for your flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival at Istanbul International Airport, make your own way to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure exploring the city where East meets West.




Overnight in Istanbul

Today after breakfast, you will explore the beautiful city of Istanbul. The landmarks of Istanbul reflect the citys rich history and architectural splendor. The Hippodrome of Constantinople, now Sultanahmet Square, was an ancient chariot racing stadium built by Emperor Septimius Severus and later expanded by Constantine I. Though most of its structure is gone, remnants like the Egyptian Obelisk and Serpent Column remain. The nearby Blue Mosque, built between 1609 and 1616, is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture, known for its stunning blue İznik tiles and grand design. Hagia Sophia, an engineering marvel constructed between 532 and 537, has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum, blending Christian and Islamic artistry. The Basilica Cistern, built during Emperor Justinian Is reign, is an underground marvel with 336 columns, some featuring Medusa heads. The Grand Bazaar, a vibrant market established in the 15th century, spans over 30,000 square meters and is a labyrinth of shops selling a variety of goods. Lastly, Topkapi Palace, built after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, served as the sultans residence and administrative center for centuries, showcasing Ottoman culture and housing significant treasures and sacred relics.Overnight in Istanbul

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and make your own way back to Istanbul International Airport for your flight back home.