India in style with Shimla

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Tour duration: 12 Nights / 13 Days
Places Covered: Delhi / Shimla / Agra / Jaipur / Udaipur / Mumbai

Tour Destination: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10 | Day 11 | Day 12 | Day 13

A two week holiday, that is a great option for those seeking to see “India in Style”, and also wanting a Himalayan experience. The trip covers some of India’s most important highlights, beginning in India’s capital city of Delhi, a bustling metropolis, often called a perfect mix of the ancient and the modern. The trip then takes you, to the Himalayan hill resort of Shimla, the summer capital of the British, followed by visits to the city of the Taj Mahal, Agra, the Pink city of Jaipur, , the Lake city of Udaipur, before ending in India’s commercial capital, Mumbai , also known for being the home of Bollywood. What makes this trip special, is that the accommodation used on this trip, is the finest available, you start the trip, at The Oberoi in New Delhi, one of Delhi’s finest hotels, then go on to the Oberoi Wildflower Hall in Shimla, a luxury resort, set an altitude of 8000 ft, then at the award winning, top of the line, Oberoi Vilas hotels, Agra, Jaipur and Udaipur, before ending in Mumbai, at the waterfront Four Seasons hotel.

Day 01 – Arrive Delhi

You will be met at the airport by Trans India Holidays representative and transferred to the hotel The Oberoi and assisted with check in formalities.

Delhi, India Tours with Shimla

Delhi is the capital of India, and its third largest city. Delhi consists of two parts – New Delhi, the city created in 1911 as the imperial capital of India by the British and the Old Delhi, the Muslim capital of India between the 17th and 19th centuries. In fact there have been at least eight cities on the site of modern Delhi – the earliest known settlement, Indraprastha, featured in the epic Mahabharata over 3000 years ago. Though not always the capital, Delhi has always been an important city of northern region of the subcontinent.

The Oberoi, New Delhi reflects the city’s spirit in a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary sophistication. Located close to the city center near business, commercial and shopping districts, the luxury hotel overlooks Delhi’s prestigious Golf Club on one side and the heritage site of Humayun’s Tomb on the other. Exquisite interiors, impeccable service and fine cuisine combine to make this the Capital’s most graceful and elegant hotel. The award winning hotel is ideal for business travel or holidays to explore the cultural wonders of Delhi

Overnight in Delhi

Day 02 – In Delhi

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:

Red Fort, India Tours with Shimla

Red Fort: Derived from a Hindi word Lal, which means red and Quila which means fort. It is laid out along the river Yamuna as an irregular octagon, surrounded by a wall of about 2.4 kms in circumference and is built of red sandstone. Shah Jahan started construction of the massive fort in 1638 and it was completed in 1648. The fort has two main entrances, the Delhi Gate and the Lahori Gate, which faces the famed Chandni Chowk market. The fort has Diwan – e – Am (hall for public audience); Diwan – e – Khas (hall for private audience); Rang Mahal (a water-cooled apartment of royal ladies); Pearl mosque, built of white marble.

Jama Masjid: In Old Delhi, an architectural extravaganza of Shah Jahan, is the country’s largest mosque where thousands of Muslims offers prayers even today. It was built in 1658. The flight of stairs and its large courtyard are marvels of architecture.

Chandni Chowk (Silver Street): It is the colourful main street and shopping bazaar of Old Delhi and is today one of the country’s best known wholesale market for textiles, electronic goods and watches. The entire area was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan’s favourite daughter and was then inhabited by the well-to-do families of the time. Around the area is the famed Paranthawale Gali, known for its delicious paranthas, Dariba Kalan, the gold market and well-known sweetmeats shops.

Raj Ghat : On the banks of river Yamuna, a simple square platform of black marble marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated following his assassination in 1948. A commemorative ceremony takes place each Friday, the day he was killed.

Birla Mandir: Close to Connaught Place, it was built by the industrialist Raja Baldev Birla in 1938. The temple is an important prayer site and contains idols of several deities.

India Gate, India Tours with Shimla

India Gate: This 42 meter high, free standing arch was built in 1931.It was originally called All India War Memorial in the memory of the 90,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died in World War I. The names of the soldiers are inscribed all along the walls of the arch. In 1971, the eternal flame was lit here to honour the Amar Jawan (Immortal Soldier).

Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House): It is the official residence of President of the country. Designed by Lutyens, it was the official residence of the Viceroy when the British ruled India.

Humayun’s Tomb: It was built by Haji Begum (widow of Humayun) in 1565 – 66, nine years after his death.

Qutub Minar: This magnificent structure in the southern part of the capital was built by the Muslim King; Qutab – ud – din Aibak in 1199 A.D. Minar (tower) is 72.5 meters high and has as its base a mosque.

Bahai’s Temple: It is a very recent architectural marvel of the Bahai faith and is visible from several spots in South Delhi. It is a lotus shaped and has rightly been given the name.

Overnight in Delhi

Day 03 - Train Delhi - Kalka & Drive Kalka – Shimla (100 kms/ 03.5 hrs)

After an early breakfast, you will be assisted with check-out formalities. You will then be transferred to New Delhi Railway station to board train “Kalka Shatabdi” at 0740 hrs. Arrive Kalka at 1200 hrs. Met on arrival at Kalka Railway Station and drive to Shimla.

India Tours with Shimla

Shimla -The British called Shimla the "Queen of Hill Stations" and it is surrounded by pine, deodar, oak and rhododendron forests. In spite of its modernization, it still retains a colonial flavour, and is one of Indian's most popular and biggest hill stations.

On arrival in Shimla, check in at hotel Oberoi Wildflower hall.

Oberoi Wild flower Hall- Located just 13 kilometers from Shimla city , at an altitude of 8,350 feet in the magnificent Himalayas, Wildflower Hall is a fairytale luxury resort set in 23 acres of virgin woods of pine and cedar. The former residence of Lord Kitchener, rebuilt to a new magnificence, Wildflower Hall recreates the grand style of the colonial era. Enjoy beautiful views of mountains and valleys from the rooms, restaurants, outdoor Jacuzzi and the heated swimming pool. Nature lovers can explore the Himalayas and enjoy adventure sports. For the ultimate in pampering our luxury spa pavilions are tranquil havens for revitalizing the body and soul.

Overnight in Shimla.

Day 04 – In Shimla

Day at leisure in Shimla, to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities and magnificent Himalayan views. You could also choose to visit the mall in Shimla, for a peek into Shimla’s colonial history, and to rummage in the local bazaars.

Overnight in Shimla.

Day 05 – In Shimla

Day 06 – Drive Shimla – Kalka (100 kms / 3.5 hrs) & Train Kalka – Delhi

After leisurely breakfast, check-out from the hotel and transferred to Kalka Railway station to board train “Kalka Shatabdi” for Delhi at 1730 hrs. Arrive Delhi at 2140 hrs

You will be met at New Delhi railway station by our representative and transferred to the hotel The Oberoi and assisted with check in formalities.
Overnight in Delhi.

Day 07 – Drive Delhi – Agra (220 kms/04 hrs)

After an early breakfast, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Agra.

Agra, situated on the bank of Yamuna River, is home to India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. Agra was the capital of Mughal Empire in the 16th & 17th centuries and its superb monuments date from this era

Oberoi Amarvilas, India Tours with Shimla

Oberoi Amarvilas, India Tours with Shimla

On arrival at Agra, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check in formalities at the hotel Oberoi Amar Vilas.

Oberoi Amarvilas- Located only 600 metres from the Taj Mahal this luxury resort has been designed to give guests uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal from all rooms and suites. The classical architecture of the hotel is enhanced by the elaborate gardens, terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions. The lobby, restaurants, bars and tea lounge also offer spectacular views of Agra’s world famous monument. The décor and service spell the ultimate in comfort and the luxurious spa offers non-clinical therapies.

Later in the afternoon, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Taj Mahal and Agra Fort

Taj Mahal, India Tours with Shimla

Taj Mahal- The Taj Mahal was constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaj Mahal who died during the birth of her child in 1631. The construction is said to have taken 22 years to complete, starting from 1631, with over 20,000 craftsmen working round the clock. Artisans and experts were brought from France and Italy and the main architect was from Iran.

Agra Fort- Construction of the massive red sandstone Agra Fort on the bank of Yamuna River was begun by Emperor Akbar in 1565 and it was to be predominantly a military structure until his grandson, Shah Jahan, added more palatial accommodations. There are a number of exquisite buildings within its portals such as Samman Burj, where Shah Jahan was held captive by his son, Moti Masjid, a white marble mosque, Diwan – e – Am, Diwan – e – Khas, Jahangir’s Palace, Khaas Mahal and Shish Mahal.

Overnight in Agra

Day 08 – Drive Agra – Jaipur (250 kms/05 hrs)

After leisurely breakfast at hotel, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Jaipur. Stop enroute at Fatehpur Sikri for guided tour of this ancient capital.

Fatehpur Sikri: the deserted capital of Emperor Akbar approximately 35 kms outside Agra. Built in the 16th century, this city was abandoned 12 years later due to a scarcity of water. The entire city of Red sand stone (sand stone palaces and temples) is virtually intact and a site worth seeing is the 54 m high main entrance - The Buland Darwaza, The gate of victory constructed to commemorate Akbar’s victory in Gujarat.

After the visit, continue your drive to Jaipur.

Jaipur - is the capital of Rajasthan, and known as the “Pink City” because of the pink colored buildings in its old city. It is situated on a dry lakebed in a somewhat arid landscape, surrounded by barren hills surmounted by forts and crenellated walls. Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, who was careful to cultivate good favour with the ruling Mughals, he laid out the city with rectangular blocks according to ancient Hindu architecture. It is a wonderful city for shopping.

hotel Oberoi Raj Vilas, India Tours with Shimla

hotel Oberoi Raj Vilas, India Tours with Shimla

On arrival in Jaipur, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check in formalities at the hotel Oberoi Raj Vilas.

Raj Vilas -Set in a princely oasis of thirty-two acres of beautiful gardens, pools and fountains, just a short distance from the city center of Rajasthan, The Oberoi Rajvilas is the perfect way to experience the palatial treasures of Jaipur. Each Deluxe room and villa features a regal teak four-poster bed and a sunken white Italian marble bathtub looking into its own private walled ornamental garden. Every conceivable modern comfort is provided – private bar, satellite TV and CD and DVD player, direct dial telephone, data-port, the same day laundry and dry cleaning, 24 hour in-room dining and butler services ensure that every need is catered for.

Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 09 – In Jaipur

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Jaipur and Amber. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:

Amber Fort: The Amber Fort is situated 11 kms away from Jaipur. Amber was once the ancient capital of Jaipur state. The Fort is a superb example of Rajput architecture, stunningly situated on a hillside and overlooking a lake, which reflects its terraces and ramparts. The climb to the fort is on gaily-bedecked elephants.

Hawa Mahal, India Tours with Shimla

Hawa Mahal (Palace of winds): Built by Maharaja Sawaj Pratap Singh in 1799, the Hawa Mahal is one of Jaipur’s major landmarks, the facade of which is all pink windows and filigree screens. It was originally built to enable ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life and processions of the city.

City Palace: It is still the home of the former royalty H.H Bhawani Singh Ji of Jaipur housing an extensive collection of art, carpets and old weapons.

Jantar Mantar (Observatory): It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728. At first glance, Jantar Mantar appears to be a curious collection of sculptures but in fact each construction has a specific purpose such as measuring the positions of stars, altitudes and azimuths, and calculating eclipses. The most striking instrument is the sundial with its 27 meter high gnomon. The shadow this casts moves up to 4 meter an hour.

Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 10 – Fly Jaipur - Udaipur

After breakfast at hotel, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. Then you will be transferred to airport in time to board flight for Udaipur.

Udaipur - Udaipur, the famed 'city of sunrise', was founded in 1567 by Maharana Udai Singh, a fearless Rajput king. This languid lake city with its fantasies in marble, picturesque hibiscus-covered gardens and elaborate fountain pavilions, embodies the glory of the Rajput era. Like many other cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is the legacy of an honour-bound race that loved the good things in life - and often gave up their lives defending them.
You will be met at the Udaipur airport by our representative and transferred to the hotel Oberoi Udaivilas and assisted with check in formalities.

Oberoi Udaivilas, India Tours with Shimla

Oberoi Udaivilas, India Tours with Shimla

Oberoi Udaivilas - the latest in the line of luxury hotels from the Oberoi Group. Udaivilas is a truly outstanding hotel overlooking the picturesque Lake Pichola and the City Palace. Conceived as a splendid palace, wonderfully recreating the romance of the past and representing the continuity of the grand traditions of Mewar, the hotel is completely in keeping with the 21st century. Spread over an expanse of 30 acres, its carefully planned and executed design has evolved as a seamless assimilation of spaces - courtyards and walkways, gently rippling water bodies fountains and reflecting pools all surrounded by exquisitely landscaped gardens and dotted with sculptures and frescoes, arches and domes, niches and alcoves. The building lends itself to discovery and continual surprise. Embellished by beautiful works of art and craft from in and around the region, Udaivilas is a vast canvas that changes with the light and seasons. The resort has specialty restaurants serving fine Indian and international cuisine. One of its special features is a world-class spa and wellness centre offering a wide range of rejuvenating and relaxing treatments.

Spend rest of the day enjoying the hotel facilities or exploring the city on your own.

Overnight in Udaipur.

Day 11 – In Udaipur

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Udaipur. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:

City Palace: The imposing City Palace, towering over the lake, is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. The main part of the palace is now preserved as a museum with a large and varied collection of glass, porcelain figures and miniature paintings.

Jagdish Temple: It is located only 150 mts from the city palace is the famous Jagdish Temple. This fine Indo-Aryan Temple was built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651 and enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu as Jagannath, Lord of the universe. A brass image of the Garuda is in a shrine in front of the temple.

Saheliyon ki bari: The Saheliyon ki bari or the garden of the Maids of Honour, is in the north of the city. It is a small ornamental garden with fountains, stone elephants and a delightful lotus pool.

Lake Pichola: Deriving its name from Pichali village, it is surrounded by hills, palaces, temples, bathing ghats and embankments. There are two island palaces, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir. The former was the summer residence of princes of Mewar and has now been converted into a hotel. Jag Mandir is built of red sandstone with a marble dome. Enjoy an evening boat cruise on Lake Pichola - the shimmering waters of the Lake combined with the City Palace in the background, serve as a magical way to end your day in Udaipur.

Overnight in Udaipur.

Day 12: Fly Udaipur – Mumbai

After early breakfast at hotel, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. You will then be transferred to airport in time to board flight for Mumbai.

Mumbai, India Tours with Shimla

Mumbai - Formerly known as Bombay, is the commercial capital of India. Known as the "city that never sleeps", Mumbai is a potpourri of cultures, customs and lifestyles. This is a city that thrives on commerce at every level during the day and lets its hair down unabashedly at night. Mumbai is also home to the largest film industry in the country. The city is dotted with a multitude of Victorian and Indian architectural landmarks that add to its charm.

You will be met at the Mumbai airport by our representative and transferred to the hotel Four Seasons and assisted with check in formalities

The Four Seasons, Mumbai is the latest addition to Mumbai’s Luxury hotels. Located on the Worli Sea face, this elegant luxury hotel overlooking the Arabian Sea offers impeccable service, understated luxury and excellent facilities including an exclusive spa and fitness center. It is the preferred hotel choice of discerning tourists and business travelers and the perfect gateway to India

Later in the afternoon, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Mumbai. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:

The Prince of Wales Museum: With its art, archeology & natural history sections, it is one of the best museums in the country

Victoria Terminus: One of the city's largest buildings with an elaborate Italian Gothic design, this terminus station of the Central Railway seldom slips out of travellers' eyes. The first train to steam out of this station, abbreviated as VT, to Thane was in 1853.

Gateway of India: A ceremonial arch built in 1927 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary is located in this southernmost peninsula of the city. Constructed in honey-colored basalt, the design of the gateway was inspired by 16th century Gujarati Architecture. The changing light of the rising and setting sun gives varied hues of gold, russet and pink to the imposing arch. The Gateway holds historical significance as the last of the British troops leaving Independent India by sea, marched through its portals.

Marine Drive: This sweeping Queen's Necklace, flickering with a thousand lights at night turns into the main thoroughfare linking Malabar Hill and the northern parts of the island to the southernmost points of Colaba, Cuffe Parade, Nariman Point and Fort.

Flora Fountain: It stands at a busy five-point intersection in the heart of the commercial Fort area. The beautifully sculptured fountain was erected in the memory of the Governor, Sir Henry Bartle Edward Frere, as a tribute for his contribution towards the building of Mumbai.

Malabar Hill: On the northern promontory of Back Bay is the expensive residential area of Malabar Hill, favoured for its cool breezes and fine views over Back Bay. The formal Hanging Gardens, known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, on top of the hill, Kamala Nehru Park, Parsi Towers of Silence and the temple of Walkeshwar, the Sand Lord, invite tourist attention here.

Overnight in Mumbai.

Day 13: Depart Mumbai

Morning at leisure. Later in the day you are met by our representative at your hotel and assisted with checkout formalities, followed by transfer to airport in time for your flight home.