Grand tour of India – IGT

This 24-day tour offers a rich and varied introduction to India’s extraordinary diversity, from the vibrant energy of Delhi to the royal heritage of Rajasthan, the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal, and the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi.

You will enjoy experiences that reflect the warmth, colour, and depth of the Indian cultures while travelling in comfort and confidence. Our carefully paced itinerary is designed to be inclusive, accessible but safe, and enjoyable for travellers.

A highlight of the journey is a 7 day Brahmaputra River cruise through Assam, offering a peaceful and immersive way to explore one of India’s most unspoilt
regions. You’ll also discover the remarkable wildlife of Kaziranga National Park, explore ancient temples, glide through desert landscapes by camel, and savour regional cuisine selected to showcase authentic local flavours.

With expert guidance, comfortable accommodation, and a considered pace throughout, this journey is designed to feel enriching rather than rushed — allowing space for discovery, reflection, and enjoyment, and we invite you to join us.

Itinerary

24 Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive Delhi

On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy time to unwind after your journey. Delhi is a captivating blend of old and new, where magnificent Mughal monuments stand alongside the grand boulevards and impressive architecture of modern India.

Day 2 – Discover Delhi

Today introduces you to the contrasting worlds of Old and New Delhi. Drive past the historic Red Fort and Raj Ghat before enjoying a traditional rickshaw ride through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk. Visit the welcoming Sikh temple of Bangla Sahib, where all visitors are warmly received regardless of faith. After lunch, explore the elegant avenues of New Delhi, viewing India Gate, Parliament House and the Presidential Estate before visiting the beautiful Humayun’s Tomb. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for our included Welcome Dinner. B,D

Day 3 – Delhi to Jamba

Grand tour of India. Culture amazing sights and rivers IGTITIN 010126 Fly to Jodhpur this morning before travelling into Rajasthan’s desert landscape to Jamba. Your destination is the unique Dera Dunes Retreat, spectacularly situated atop one of the region’s highest sand dunes. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and experience a side of India few visitors encounter. B,D

Day 4 – Desert Villages and Camel Safari

Experience the rich traditions of rural Rajasthan during a leisurely jeep safari through desert communities. Visit the Bishnoi people, renowned for their deep respect for nature and wildlife, and meet local carpet weavers and members of the Raika community. As the day cools, enjoy a memorable (optional) camel safari across the dunes while watching the sun set over the desert landscape. B,D

Day 5 – Jamba to Jodhpur

Travel to the enchanting Blue City of Jodhpur, stopping at Kheechan where thousands of migratory Demoiselle Cranes gather during the season. This afternoon, explore the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s most impressive hilltop citadels, offering superb views across the blue-painted houses below. B,D

Day 6 – Jodhpur to Udaipur

Journey through the scenic countryside of Rajasthan towards Udaipur. Along the way, visit the extraordinary Jain temples of Ranakpur, renowned for their intricate marble carvings and remarkable architecture. Arrive in Udaipur, often regarded as India’s most romantic city. B,D

Day 7 – Udaipur

Enjoy a full day discovering the charms of Udaipur. Visit the beautiful Jagdish Temple, stroll through the tranquil Garden of the Maidens and explore the splendid City Palace. As evening approaches, cruise on picturesque Lake Pichola, admiring the city’s palaces and lakeside setting from the water. B,D

Day 8 – Udaipur to Jaipur

Travel to Jaipur, the colourful capital of Rajasthan, with time to relax on arrival.  This evening is one of the tour’s special highlights as you join a local family in their home to experience the warmth, traditions and celebrations of Diwali, India’s Festival of Lights.
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Day 9 – Jaipur

Discover the grandeur of Jaipur, beginning with the impressive Amber Fort. Later, stop at the iconic Palace of Winds before lunch. This afternoon, explore the City Palace, still home to Jaipur’s royal family, and admire its collections of textiles, costumes, manuscripts and artworks. B,D

Day 10 – Jaipur to Agra

Travel towards Agra, stopping to visit the remarkable Chand Baori stepwell, one of India’s most extraordinary hidden architectural treasures. After lunch, visit Mehtab Bagh, a peaceful riverside garden offering beautiful views towards the Taj Mahal. B,D

Day 11 – Agra

This morning rewards you with one of the world’s great travel experiences — witnessing the Taj Mahal in the soft morning light. After breakfast, visit Agra Fort before enjoying a special home-hosted lunch with a local family. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax and absorb the atmosphere of this historic city. B,D

Day 12 – Agra to Varanasi

Travel by first class train to Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. En route, settle back and enjoy the changing scenery. On arrival, visit Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, before checking into your hotel. B,D

Day 13 – Varanasi

This morning we depart for a memorable boat cruise on the sacred Ganges River as pilgrims gather along the ghats in the soft light of dawn. Later, enjoy a private performance by a renowned sitar musician. As evening falls, return to the river to witness the mesmerising Aarti Ceremony, a deeply spiritual ritual of light, music and devotion. B,D

Day 14 – Varanasi to Kolkata

Fly to Kolkata today. On arrival, transfer to your hotel to enjoy a leisurely evening. B

Day 15 – Kolkata to Jorhat – Embark Brahmaputra Cruise

Fly to Jorhat and board the elegant MV Mahabaahu for your seven-night Brahmaputra River cruise. Following a welcome lunch, settle into your comfortable surroundings before joining fellow travellers for a traditional toast to the Brahmaputra and Dinner. B,D

Day 16 – Sibsagar

Explore historic Sibsagar, once the capital of the Ahom Kingdom. Visit ancient monuments and temples before enjoying a special home-hosted lunch at a tea estate family residence. Return to the ship by sunset. B,D

Day 17 – Majuli Island and Mishing Village

Cruise to Majuli Island, the cultural heartland of Assam’s Vaishnav traditions. Visit a traditional Mishing village where houses are built on raised platforms beside the river. Browse colourful handwoven textiles before enjoying dinner beneath the stars. B,D

Day 18 – Wildlife Safari on the Brahmaputra

This morning, venture out on a boat safari in search of wildlife. Depending on conditions, sightings may include elephants, buffalo, otters and an impressive variety of birdlife. Later, enjoy a cooking demonstration and a relaxed evening aboard ship. B,D

Day 19 – Silghat and Tea Country

Visit riverside villages and gain insight into everyday life in Assam. Meet local artisans and observe traditional weaving techniques before cruising onward to Silghat. Tour a tea estate and factory to learn about the production of Assam’s famous tea, followed by a cultural performance this evening. B,D

Day 20 – Kaziranga National Park

One of the tour’s wildlife highlights awaits today as you explore Kaziranga National Park, home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Enjoy a safari through this remarkable reserve, where elephants, deer, buffalo and an abundance of birdlife may also be seen. B,D

Day 21 – Cruising to Peacock Island

Enjoy a leisurely morning aboard as the ship continues downstream. Attend an engaging presentation on local culture and mythology before gathering for a special Farewell Dinner to celebrate your Brahmaputra adventure. B,D

Day 22 – Guwahati to Kolkata

Disembark this morning and fly to Kolkata. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore at your own pace. B,D

Day 23 – Kolkata

Today’s sightseeing includes a visit to Mother Teresa’s House, where her humanitarian legacy continues today. Later, discover the artisan district of Kumartuli before enjoying an amazing evening cruise on the Hooghly River. This evening, celebrate your journey with our included Farewell Dinner. B,D

Day 24 – Kolkata

Visit Kolkata’s vibrant flower market, one of the largest in eastern India, followed by the magnificent Victoria Memorial. The afternoon is free to relax before transferring to the airport for your onward travel. B