14 Nights - Luxury India Tour with Abercrombie & Kent Featuring Diwali

Day 1

10 Oct 2025

Arrive New Delhi

The Leela Palace New Delhi Grande Deluxe Room - Double 2-Nights

Arrive in Delhi by this evening.

Upon arrival our representative meets you at the aerobridge and escort you through the immigration, baggage collection and customs formalities. Following this you will be introduced to an Abercrombie & Kent representative, as you EXIT the arrival terminal building who escorts to your hotel. (please note standard check in time is 1400 hours).

Delhi is a city built and re-built seven times over several centuries. The capital city today marries the quaint and unique elements of different historical eras with the pace of the bustling, growing economy. At every turn of the road, the past and the present coexist.


Your stay in the city has been arranged at The Leela Palace New Delhi.

The Leela Palace in New Delhi is located in the capital' s posh Diplomatic Enclave. Stay in one of the rooms or suites that are pristine and exude warmth aplenty. You can choose from dining options - The Qube, Jamavar, Le Cirque, and Megu - each with exquisite offerings from various regions around the world. Feel relaxed and rejuvenated after a therapeutic session at the hotel's ESPA or after a swim session in the Infinity Swimming Pool.

Day 2

11 Oct 2025

New Delhi

The Leela Palace New Delhi Grande Deluxe Room - Double (B-L)

After breakfast, please meet the Abercrombie & Kent guide in the reception area of the hotel for your half day sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi.

We start our journey with the old part of the town, with the Jama Masjid as the first stop. The Jama Masjid - The World-reflecting Mosque - is the largest mosque in India and has been standing tall for more than 350 years, commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the builder of the Taj Mahal. Take a short ride on a cycle rickshaw through the shopping district of Chandni Chowk before boarding the bus.

Thereafter drive past the Red Fort, the residence of the Mughal Emperors and the seat of the Mughal capital till 1857. The ramparts of the Red Fort bear witness to some of the best cultural and historical events of India. History truly comes alive at the Red Fort in the evening with the 'Sound and Light Show', a multimedia extravaganza recounting the history of Delhi. The old city tour winds up at Raj Ghat, the final resting place of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. The Raj Ghat immediately centers your thoughts with its peaceful, green landscape, complete with sprawling lawns and overhanging trees.

After the morning's exploration, stop for lunch at local restaurant to refuel for the next set of adventures.

We now head to the newer parts of the city, but which still hide historical wonders in its folds. The first stop, Humayun's Tomb, is the first Persian-style garden-tomb to be built in India. The structure, seen as a marvel of Mughal architecture, set the tone for future leaps in architecture, which peaked with the Taj Mahal.

We now move to the area where modern India's seeds were first sown. A drive down the Raj Path (the royal path) takes you to the India Gate, a majestic monument commemorating the contribution of Indian soldiers who laid down their lives for the British Empire's army fighting in World War I. At the farther end of the Raj Path sits the sprawling residence of India's President, located on Raisina hill.

The President's Residence (Rashtrapati Bhavan) is a mansion with 360 rooms. The residence's premises also house the Mughal Gardens, which has a wide variety of flowers and interesting landscaping. The North and South Block, which fall close to the Parliament, the seat of the largest democracy in the world, and the President's House, and have in them the highest offices of the Indian Government and its ministries.

Day 3

12 Oct 2025

New Delhi - Varanasi

Taj Ganges Varanasi Deluxe Room - Double (B) 2-Nights

After breakfast, please meet the Abercrombie & Kent representative in the reception area of your hotel for your transfer to the Delhi Airport.

Depart: Delhi Airport at 10:55 on Sunday, 12 October 2025 on Indigo Airlines Flight # 6E 2361
Arrive: Varanasi Airport, Varanasi at 12:15 on Sunday, 12 October 2025

Upon arrival at the Varanasi Airport, an Abercrombie & Kent representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

Dating back to more than 3000 years, Varanasi is said to be the oldest city of the world. There are temples at every few steps here giving it the sobriquet, ‘city of temples’. In Hinduism it is believed that those who breathe their last in this city attain nirvana and get an instant gateway to liberation from the cycle of births and re-births.

Your stay in the city has been arranged at Taj Ganges Varanasi.
Taj Ganges in Varanasi is a confluence of redefined hospitality and local essence. This will be reflected during your stay in one of the 130 rooms and suites. Meals at the hotels are inspired by regional and international cuisines which you will be served at Chowk and Bhojan. Take care of your health at the hotel's pool and Fitness Centre.

Later in the evening proceed to witness the Aarti ceremony at the bank of river Ganges.
We walk through the narrow alleys where we share space with cows, scooters, cycle rickshaws, shops and people to the banks of the Ganges. Here we board a boat, which takes us mid-stream to witness the evening “aarti” ceremony. This is the evening service performed by a priest on the banks of the river. Accompanied by the hypnotic beat of drums and bells and the chanting of prayers, the whole ceremony is mesmerizing ending with the release of hundreds of lamps into waters of the river.

Day 4

13 Oct 2025

Varanasi

Taj Ganges Varanasi Deluxe Room - Double (B) 2-Nights

Early this morning please meet your Abercrombie & Kent guide in the reception area of the hotel and proceed for boat ride on river Ganges.

A visit to Varanasi is incomplete without a tour of the ghats at sunrise. This is the most auspicious moment in Hinduism and people flock to the river to greet the rising sun. Watch the activity from a boat, and as you drift down river you will see a panorama of life in a pilgrim town. People take dips in the holy river, yogis practice their art along the steps, mud wrestlers, women doing laundry and washing vessels, pilgrims worshipping at shrine - and in the background the constant sound of temple bells and chanting.

Return to your hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast please meet your Abercrombie & Kent guide at the reception area of the hotel and proceed for your visit to Sarnath.

Sarnath which lies a short distance from the main city, is the place where the Buddha came in 500 BC to give his first sermon after gaining enlightenment. Other than the archeological park which has the remains of the monastery that developed here, of interest is the fairly new Buddhist temple. On the walls are paintings depicting the most significant episodes from the birth of Buddha as Prince Siddhartha, to the time he gained enlightenment and became The Buddha.

Also visit the local Hindu temples of Varanasi.

Day 5

14 Oct 2025

Varanasi - Agra

Tajview Agra - IHCL Selections Deluxe Room - Double (B-L) 2-Nights

Early this morning, please meet the Abercrombie & Kent representative in the reception area of your hotel for your transfer to Varanasi Airport.

Depart: Varanasi Airport at 10:35 on Tuesday, 14 October 2025 on Indigo Airlines Flight # 6E 6326
Arrive: Delhi Airport at 12:05 on Tuesday, 14 October 2025

Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be received and driven for approx. four hours to Agra.

Akbarabad, as Agra was known during the Mughal era, is home to some of the most magnificent Mughal architectures. Situated on the banks of river Yamuna, the monumental beauty of Agra has inspired countless people around the world. This third largest city of the state of Uttar Pradesh is home to three UNESCO world heritage sites.

Your stay in the city has been arranged at Tajview Agra - IHCL Seleqtions.
Tajview Agra, a distinguished property in the heart of the city, exudes an aura of sophistication and timeless elegance. With its elegantly appointed rooms, an array of fine dining options, and an unwavering commitment to impeccable service, it epitomizes modern luxury. Nestled amidst the historical grandeur of Agra, the hotel provides a serene retreat for discerning travelers. Tajview Agra seamlessly marries contemporary opulence with the enduring charm of Indian hospitality, offering an extraordinary and upmarket experience in the iconic city of Agra.

Day 6

15 Oct 2025

Agra

Tajview Agra - IHCL Selections Deluxe Room - Double (B)

Early morning you will enjoy Taj Mahal during Sunrise

At sunrise, when it is bathed in the pinkish glow of the rising sun, the Taj Mahal holds your gaze. It is also a great time to take some unforgettable pictures.

Return back to the hotel for breakfast.

Later you will visit Agra Fort & Itmad-ud-Daulah.

Situated on the right bank of river Yamuna, the Agra Fort is one of the most important and robustly built stronghold of the Mughals, embellished with a number of beautifully decorated buildings bringing forth the Mughal style of art and architecture. This fabulous monument was once home to the Kohi-noor diamond. Not only that, this fort is witness to Akbar’s great rule, Aurangzeb’s tyranny and India’s first fight for freedom, the revolt of 1857.

It is believed that the glorious Taj Mahal was also probably inspired from another monument in Agra called the Itmad-ud-Daulah. And so, this Mughal mausoleum is also called the ‘Baby Taj’. This beautiful tomb definitely calls for a visit. The tomb, built between 1622 and 1628 has walls made of white marble from Rajasthan, encrusted with semi-precious stone decorations.

Later return to your hotel and enjoy the hotel amenities.

Today get your hand painted with Henna for ladies and for gentleman we will have the meeting with Astrologer.

This evening, please meet your Abercrombie & Kent guide in the reception area of the hotel and proceed to visit Taj Mahal by sunset.

Later proceed for the visit of Taj Mahal, it is perhaps the world’s most perfectly proportioned monument. This stunning mausoleum immortalized the name of Shah Jahan’s last wife Mumtaz Mahal, “light of the palace”. Built by Indian artisans and artisans from neighbouring Islamic countries, it is aptly described by the poet laureate Tagore as “A tear on the face of eternity”.

Day 7

16 Oct 2025

Agra - Jaipur

Taj Amer Luxury Room - Double (B-L) 2-Nights

After breakfast you will be driven for approx. six hours to Jaipur.

Enroute your first stop will be at Fatehpur Sikri followed by Lunch stop at Kadam Kunj.

A visit to the Fatehpur Sikri, now a UNESCO world heritage site, brings alive the early days of Emperor Akbar and resonates the music of the legendary musician Tansen all over again. Fatehpur Sikri was Akbar's capital for approximately 12 years. The finest monuments within Fatehpur Sikri are the Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, Panch Mahal, Buland Darwaza and the tomb of Saint Sheikh Salim Chishti, and the Jama Masjid (one of the largest mosques In India).

Later stop for the lunch at Kadam Kunj.

Later continue your drive to Jaipur and upon arrival check in at the hotel.

Beautiful palaces, forts and colourful bazaars speak of the pink city’s glorious regal past. Modernity walks hand-in-hand with history in Jaipur. This largest city of Rajasthan, founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, is famous for its magnanimous hospitality.

Your stay in the city has been arranged at Taj Amer.

Taj Amer, an epitome of grandeur, is perched majestically on the Aravalli hills overlooking the serene Maota Lake in Jaipur. This architectural marvel seamlessly blends the rich history of Rajasthan with luxurious modern amenities. The palace, with its intricate marble and sandstone carvings, narrates tales of royalty and valor. Each opulent room and suite offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, providing a regal experience for guests. The lavish courtyards, Mughal gardens, and the reflective pool enhance the regal ambiance. Taj Amer is not just a hotel; it's a captivating journey through time and heritage in the heart of the Pink City.

Day 8

17 Oct 2025

Jaipur

Taj Amer Luxury Room - Double (B-L)

This morning, please meet your guide at the reception area of your hotel and proceed for the city tour of Jaipur.

Amber Fort: 11 Kms north of Jaipur Amber was the ancient capital of Kachhwaha Rajput’s from 1037 until Sawai Jai Singh II moved to a newly created Jaipur. The architecture shows distinct Mughal influence. The building of the fort was begin by Raja Man Singh a noted Rajput general of Akbar’s army in 1600 and was later added to by successive rulers.

Later proceed to the local restaurant for lunch.

Post lunch enjoy the city tour of Jaipur visiting.

City Palace: as described by some writers “spectacular synthesis of Rajput and Mughal architecture”. The city palace occupies the center of Jaipur, covers one seventh of its area and is surrounded by high wall.

Jantar Mantar Observatory: the Jantar Mantar built between 1728 and 1734 houses precise instruments for measuring “the harmony of heavens” each instrument serves a particular function and gives an accurate reading. Noteworthy instruments worth visiting are the Samrat Yantra (sun dial), Dhruva Yantra (locates the position of the Pole star and the twelve Zodiac sings), Nari Valya Yantra (Sun dial for Southern hemisphere), Raj Yantra (used once a year to calculate the Hindu calendar) and observers seat.

Hawa Mahal (Photo stop only): perhaps Jaipur most famous building; the Hawa Mahal is the pink sandstone façade of a palace built for the ladies of the harem by Sawai Pratap Singh. The façade contains 953 small casements under a huge curve, each with a balcony and crowning arch. The windows enable cool air (hawa) to circulate and the zenana to watch processions below without being seen.

Day 9

18 Oct 2025

Jaipur - Jodhpur

Ajit Bhawan Palace Vintage Suite - Double (B) 2-Nights

This morning, please meet the Abercrombie & Kent representative in the reception area of your hotel for your transfer to Jaipur Airport.

Depart: Jaipur Airport at 09:45 on Saturday, 18 October 2025 on Indigo Airlines Flight # 6E 7405
Arrive: Jodhpur Airport at 10:40 on Saturday, 18 October 2025

Upon arrival at Jodhpur airport you will be received and transferred to the hotel.

The second largest city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, a Rajput chief belonging to the Rathore clan. Jodhpur is also known as the "Sun City" for the bright, sunny weather it enjoys all year and the "Blue City" because most of its houses in the old city are painted indigo.

Your stay in the city has been arranged at Ajit Bhawan Palace.

Ajit Bhawan, India's First Heritage Hotel, situated in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, was the former residence of Maharaj Dhiraj Sir Ajit Singh Ji. The hotel still bears obvious stamps of royalty which is echoed in its avant-garde designs, regal furnishings, artefacts and accoutrements from the Maharaja's personal collection. Here, enjoy a stay a la royalty; take your pick from Deluxe Rooms, Luxury Tents, the exclusive Vintage Suite, the tastefully furnished Ajit Suite and the majestic Presidential Suite. Enjoy the hotel's delectable offerings in the multi-cuisine Jodhpur Cafe that has exquisite vegan options, Garden Restaurant that serves recipes from the royal kitchen, and Dhani that serves delightful culinary options interspersed with local Rajasthani flavours.

This afternoon please meet your Abercrombie & Kent guide in the reception area of the hotel and proceed for the city tour of Jodhpur.
Begin your tour with one of the largest forts of the country, the majestic Mehrangarh fort. The fort is famous for its expansive courtyards, intricate carvings and multi-storeyed palaces. Built on a high rocky cliff, the views from the fort stretch all across the plains as far as the Mewari fort at Kumbalgarh. Almost impregnable, the fort is entered through seven fortified gateways. Beside the last gate, the 15th century Loha Pol, or Iron Gate are the handprints of 15 royal sati Jodhpur queens who immolated themselves on the funeral pyres of their husbands. The fort is divided into three sections – the public areas, the Maharajas palaces, and the zenana, or queen palaces. The zenana is decorated with exquisite sandstone filigree work. Within the fort is the museum which among its varied exhibits has an excellent collection of royal palanquins and the howdah section which has perhaps the finest collection of old ornate elephant howdahs in the world.

Your next stop is near the fort, on the banks of a lake, the Jaswant Thada. This is the memorial of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Made of gleaming white marble on a platform of red sandstone this monument is worth a visit.

Day 10

19 Oct 2025

Jodhpur

Ajit Bhawan Palace Vintage Suite - Double (B)

This morning, please meet your Abercrombie & Kent guide in the reception area of the hotel and proceed for your tour to the Bishnoi villages.

Travel 45 minutes out of Jodhpur to visit a traditional Bishnoi village on the outskirts of Jodhpur. Here you learn about the principles of the ecology of these villages. They were created centuries ago by a survivor, known as Jambeshwar or Jambhoji, of the great famine of 1485. He observed that the famine was the result of deforestation in the region and created a list of 29 rules. Bish-noi means ‘29’ in the Hindi Language and rules included not cutting down green trees and only taking what you need from the fields. Notice the buffaloes, sheep and goats kept by the villagers - but not for meat as they are all vegetarians - only for milk, wool and manure. Learn how they use the manure for fuel as well as constructing houses.

You will also have chance to witness the opium ceremony and interact with potter community.

Later return to your hotel.

This evening you will visit the local market with your guide and also enjoy the tuk-tuk ride.

Day 11

20 Oct 2025

Jodhpur - Udaipur

Taj Aravali Resort & Spa Udaipur Deluxe Room w/ Garden View and Balcony - Double (B-L) 3-Nights

After breakfast please meet your Abercrombie & Kent representative in the reception area of the hotel for your transfer to Udaipur.

Today you are driven for six hours to Udaipur. En-route stop at the famous Ranakpur Jain Temples.
Ranakpur is primarily famous for the Jain Temple. Surrounded by the Aravalli hills and located on the banks of 'Magai' river this grand and gigantic four-facet structure was built between the late 14th to mid-15th centuries. The present structure of the temple came into being after 50 years of hard work by various artisans and sculptors. The temple is dedicated to 'Lord Adinath'. Light colour marble has been used for the construction of this grand temple which rises majestically from the slope of a hill with its distinctive domes. The temple has over 1444 marble pillars, carved in exquisite detail and no two pillars in the temple are the same. It is also said that it is impossible to count the pillars. So with countless pillars and each different from one another, you are bound to be baffled by the beauty of this unique temple.

Later stop for lunch at the Mountbatten Lodge near Ranakpur.

Post lunch continue your drive to Udaipur.

Udaipur, also known as the City of Lakes is like the oasis of the Thar desert. The many lakes in the city have lent it the name of ‘Venice of the East’. The royal palaces and forts add to beauty of the historic city of Udaipur founded in 1559.
Your stay in the city has been arranged at Taj Aravali Resort & Spa Udaipur.

Nestled amidst the serene Aravalli hills, Taj Aravali Resort & Spa in Udaipur is a harmonious blend of luxury and natural beauty. This five-star resort, surrounded by lush landscapes, offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. Modern and elegant, the resort's architecture complements the picturesque surroundings. Guests are welcomed to stylish accommodations with contemporary design and panoramic views. Taj Aravali boasts world-class amenities, including a rejuvenating spa, multiple dining options, and outdoor activities. The resort's commitment to sustainable practices further enhances its appeal. A stay at Taj Aravali Resort & Spa promises a rejuvenating retreat, celebrating the rich heritage and scenic beauty of Udaipur.

Day 12

21 Oct 2025

Udaipur

Taj Aravali Resort & Spa Udaipur Deluxe Room w/ Garden View and Balcony - Double (B)

Please meet the Abercrombie & Kent guide at the reception area of the hotel and proceed for the sightseeing tour of Udaipur.

After breakfast you will start at the City Palace. Home of the Maharanas of Udaipur who claim descendence from the Sun, the whole complex appropriately faces east. This sprawling palace was built over three centuries and is a series of four interconnecting palaces, illustrative of various architectural styles. In the main it is a blend of Rajput military architecture and lavish Mughal inspired decorative art on the inside. In terms of an exemplary eye to detail and craftsmanship, few palaces match the artwork in this palace. Extravagantly decorated in mosaic, mirror and tile work, the palace somewhat bizarrely also has a whole porcelain painted Gallery decorated in striking blue Dutch inlaid tile work, one of them unexpectedly showing Joseph and Mary on their flight to Egypt with the infant Jesus. Also of particular note here is the exquisite collection of priceless Rajput Miniature paintings done in the Mewari tradition. You walk through the Crystal Gallery which has a rather eclectic collection of Crystal Object d’art and furniture including a complete bedroom set, discovered recently in a store room in the palace. After this royal treat, our next stop is the 18th century garden, ‘Saheliyon ki bari’. With lush green lawns, marble fountains and beautifully carved pavilions, it makes for the most beautiful garden.

This evening visit the local family to enjoy the Festival of light “Diwali”.

Diwali, or Dipawali, is the festival of light and gets its name from the row (avali) of clay lamps (deepa) that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects from spiritual darkness. It symbolises the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance"

Day 13

22 Oct 2025

Udaipur

Taj Aravali Resort & Spa Udaipur Deluxe Room w/ Garden View and Balcony - Double (B)

This morning, you embark on a half-day tour revealing the distinctive temple complexes of Eklingji and the historic ruins of Nagda.

After an hour’s drive from Udaipur, arrive in the village of Kailashpuri, home to the 108 temples of the Eklingji complex. The stunning main temple fronts a small lake bounded by hills beyond. Dedicated to Shiva, this white marble temple boasts a breathtaking interior of finely crafted silver doorways, screens and lamps. While the temples draw many pilgrims, they are often overlooked by tourists. Continue on to explore the ruins of Nagda, the historic capital of Mewar. Now deserted, this archaeological site bears the scars of centuries of warfare, juxtaposed by tranquil fields and a serene lotus pond.

Later return to your hotel.

In the evening, board a motor launch for a 30- to 60-minute, private cruise of Lake Pichola, revealing a picture postcard of mirror-flat waters reflecting stately island palaces and looming mountains beyond. Watch as the city of Udaipur rises majestically above the lake, the island-bound Jag Mandir Palace drifting lazily past. This Mughal gem’s domes, pillars, fountains and bold statuary are said to have inspired some of the Taj Mahal's iconic architectural flourishes.

Day 14

23 Oct 2025

Udaipur - Gurugram /Delhi

The Oberoi Gurgaon Deluxe Room - Double (B-D)

Morning will be at leisure.

Later this afternoon, please meet the Abercrombie & Kent representative in the reception area of your hotel for your transfer to Udaipur Airport.

Depart: Udaipur Airport at 13:05 on Thursday, 23 October 2025 on Air Vistara Flight # UK 636
Arrive: Delhi Airport at 14:40 on Thursday, 23 October 2025

Upon arrival you will be received and transferred to the hotel.

Gurugram, often referred to as Gurgaon, is a bustling city in Haryana, India, located southwest of New Delhi. Renowned as the "Millennium City," it has rapidly grown into a major business and tech hub. The city boasts modern infrastructure, upscale shopping centers, and a thriving culinary scene. Popular attractions include Cyber Hub, DLF Cybercity, and the Kingdom of Dreams. Gurugram's dynamic blend of business and leisure makes it a sought-after destination for professionals and travelers.

Your stay in the city has been arranged at The Oberoi Gurgaon.

Strategically located at a mere 15 minutes drive from the domestic and the international airport of New Delhi, The Oberoi in Gurgaon is an award-winning hotel and is one of the hotel chain's newest offerings. Stay in one of the rooms or suites that is beautifully decorated with black and white photography representing India's diversity as a nation. Threesixtyone Degree and Amaranta are the two restaurants of the hotel; they have one of the best culinary creations in the city here. Indulge in revitalising treatments at the hotel's Spa or perhaps enjoy swims at the temperature-controlled pool.

Day 15

24 Oct 2025

Depart Gurugram /Delhi

(B)

Morning you will be transferred to Delhi International Airport to board flight for onward destination (Flight details to be advised)

Room will be available till 12 Noon.