We will wake up early and officially start our tour of Delhi! First we will go to Jama Masjid mosque for some photos, and then brave the bustling Chandi Chawk Market!

We will take a rickshaw through the crazy market streets, and then have some free time to shop in the area that sells the fabulous shoes, bangles, and sarees. You will be split into smaller groups depending on your shopping goals, and accompanied by someone from our team to ensure your safety...and fair bargaining prices!

All that shopping is going to make us famished, so we'll head to a quick lunch of local cuisine, and then around 3-4pm, we will board our bus and drive to Agra (4 hours).

Overnight in Agra: Jaypee Agra or similar

This morning we will visit the Agra Fort; a UNESCO World Heritage site which is a beautiful, imposing structure on the banks of the river Yamuna. It is replete with priceless examples of craftsmanship in the Mughal period and blends the Hindu and central Asian architectural styles very  beautifully. Built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of courtyards, mosques and private chambers of the fort echo the story of the Mughal Empire.

You will get your first view of the Taj Mahal here! And we'll also tell you the story about how the emperor ended up imprisoned in his own palace, by his own son, to prevent him from building a second Taj Mahal for himself!

Afterwards we will head back to the hotel for lunch, so that you also have time to enjoy the beautiful hotel and pool, and rest up a bit!

Later we will do a sunset visit to Mehtab Bagh for splendid views of Taj Mahal.

One of the most magical views of the Taj Mahal can be found at the gorgeous Mehtab Bagh which stands for “moonlit pleasure garden” in Urdu. This gorgeous historic pleasure garden is a great way to see the Taj Mahal without all the crowds.

It is also where said second Taj Mahal was supposed to be built...

Afterwards we will head back to the hotel for our saree wrapping demonstration, where we will help you pin your saree in place so it's ready to go in the morning. Then everyone will get a henna design on their hand or foot, and have dinner at your leisure so that we can get to bed early, and prepare for one of the main events!

Overnight in Agra: Jaypee Palace Agra or similar

The moment you've all been waiting for! We'll use Alyssa's proven strategy of waking up at 4am to get dressed in our sarees (optional) and head to the Taj Mahal, in order to be first in line when it opens at sunrise. This will ensure that we get the token photos with no people in them, and trust us, it's worth it!

We'll quickly get our shots in front of the Taj Mahal, then you will have free time to wander, take more photos, and visit the inside of the Taj Mahal where the actual tombs are. We will fully brief you on where to find the best photo angles, and about how to hire a local person (AKA DON!) to assist you with photos if you'd like.

We will spend just 1.5 hours there, and will leave just as the crowds arrive.

More info about the Taj Mahal: it is allegedly the epitome of love, and stands on the banks of the river Yamuna, built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan for his favorite of seven wives. The Taj attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. To experience the beauty of this architectural marvel, it needs to be viewed at different times of the day and year. The white marble building changes its hue with the variations in the daylight. Made entirely of white marble and decorated with exquisite pietra dura (stone inlay) work, different types of precious and semi-precious stones were used in the intricate inlay work done on the interiors. This magnificent monument is built around a Charbagh or ’four garden’ plan, split by watercourses— reflects the influence of Persian architectural style.

You'll also get a different view of this "love story" from Alyssa...who believes the Taj Mahal is basically the opposite of a love story, however it's still one of her favorite World Wonders to see!

We will then go back to hotel for breakfast and packing if you haven't already (and possibly a quick nap if you already packed), and later we'll drive to Jaipur with an en-route visit of Abaneri Step well and the Patrika Gate! (Note, if we arrive after sunset we will wait to do Patrika Gate until the next day)

Then we're sure you're going to absolutely love the extensive options of international cuisine at the Marriott Hotel! Especially if you're starting to get Indian fooded-out!

Overnight in Jaipur at Jaipur Marriott Hotel or similar

After an early breakfast we will go to Amber Fort, the ancient

capital of Rajasthan and the majestic palace complex to witness a unique system of air-conditioning of 17thcentury (which clearly doesn't work since it's a bit hot there). 

It's a beautiful sprawling complex of Palaces, halls, pavilions, gardens and temples, and it still stands in a magnificent state. The red sandstone and white Marble palace has some very interesting apartments as well, like the Diwan-I-Am, Ganesh Pol, Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Niwas, Jai Mandir, Man Singh Palace and Shila Devi Temple.

Please be patient today as we opt to brave the traffic in jeeps to get up to the fort, rather than participate in elephant riding! We will also teach you how to use "hawker-blockers" (decorative umbrellas) to avoid the many men trying to sell souvenirs here...

By the way, this fort is where you can see the stone-lattice windows, in case anyone is hoping to get a photo at one!

If time permits, we will also sneak in another beautiful step-well visit, and this one actually let's you sit on the top step (the majority of stepwells don't even allow this anymore due to people falling down the steps or into the well trying to take photos...)

Next we will stop for lunch, and then head to the City Palace for some beautiful architectural views! If there's time, and if you'd like, you can go to the many shops that are walking distance from the City Palace before dinner.

*Note: for those who might be wondering about the famous blue room at the City Palace -- it is around $200 to enter!

Overnight in Jaipur at Marriott Hotel or similar

Get ready to experience Holi in India in the most fabulous, breathtaking, exciting way possible! We are hoping to confirm our favorite rooftop overlooking the Wind Palace again, but in the event that they're unable to open on the holiday again, we will still have a similar view and the same festivities!

Professional event decorators will transform the rooftop into something magical, you'll feel like your life's a travel movie! ;) Holi powder, flower petals, live music, and lunch are included, as well as two beers each. If you'd like to bring your own wine or alcohol, feel free! We will do pre-orders and get it for you in advance.

We'll spend a few hours partying and playing Holi, then go back to the hotel to shower and rest for a bit before dinner!

For those who still have some energy, we'll have a fun little impromptu pool partay!

Overnight in Jaipur at Marriott Hotel or similar

You'll be able to sleep in for once, and then after breakfast you'll start the long drive back to Delhi (between 5-6 hours). There aren't many restaurants along the way, so we'll likely stop at an Indian McDonald's where you can try some unique items like paneer burgers! There's also Subway, Dominos, and local food options. It might not sound exciting now, but we guarantee you that everyone will be STOKED for the fast food by this last day!

If you're feeling up to it, when you get back to Delhi, you can take an uber to go back to Kahn Market or one of the other markets we suggested, but please note that we will be unable to accompany you unless you book one of the guides to take you.

Sadly this is the last night together, so enjoy one last dinner before packing up and getting ready to head out!

Overnight at Vivanta by Taj or similar

Sadly it's time to head back home, or to your next adventure! Transfers are included and will be arranged according to your flight, no matter how early it is!

Days are subject to change depending on those who book. We may be able to make this add on prior too the 7 day Holi trip, or after. This itinerary is based on after, just as an example. 

Day 1 of Add On (Day 08 of entire trip): Delhi – Mumbai By: Flight 

Morning-transfer to Delhi airport to board the flight to Mumbai. 

Mumbai – it is the city that never sleeps! Pulsating, Alive and on the move, Vibrant and Fun. Over the years, as colonialism gave way to independence, Mumbai has transformed itself into an entity with thriving markets, businesses, houses and many different communities reflecting a cosmopolitan and trendy atmosphere rarely seen elsewhere. On the surface, it represents the ever-changing face of today's India -- the old coupled with the dynamic new, and yet at its very core, the heart of the city is steeped in Indian customs and values. Evening free for leisure.  

Day 2 of add on (Day 09 of entire trip): Mumbai 

-Post breakfast proceed for city tour of Mumbai. The tour starts from the Gateway of India. Gateway of India is the landmark of Bombay, which, was before the advent of air travel, the only gateway to India. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George and Queen Mary to India in 1911. You will be then driven along Marine Drive, the sea - front Boulevard. It is also known as the Queen’s Necklace as in the evening, the breeze from the Arabian Sea comes over Marine Drive and as the streetlights on this U-shaped road light up, the view from south Bombay’s skyscrapers or from the exclusive residential area, is that of a Queen’s Necklace. Your first stop will be the Jain Temples, built of marble and dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankara. From the temples you will be driven along Malabar Hill via the Tower of Silence - a round stone construction on which Parsis place their dead to be eaten by the vultures and Hanging Gardens which is built over Bombay’s reservoir. From here one can get a panoramic view of picturesque Marine Drive.  From Malabar Hill you will be driven to the Dhobi Ghats (IF THE TIME PERMITS) a huge open-air laundry, which makes an interesting viewing. Rest of the day is at leisure. 

Day 3 of Add On (Day 10 of entire trip): Mumbai 

-Morning: The Mumbai Dreams, Bollywood Tour

India is still the largest film producer of the world, producing an average of 1000 films a year. Since 1931, when the talkies were introduced, India has produced more than 67,000 films in more than 30 languages. Today Bollywood - the Hindi cinema counterpart of Hollywood - is no longer catering to a limited audience, it has gathered a large worldwide audience, especially among the NRI's through its international quality along with the blending of east and west. Bollywood has come a long way since 1896 when soundless movies made its advent into India with the Lumiere Brothers. The Mumbai Dreams offers a look into the magical world of the Indian entertainment industry. Experience Bollywood and the TV industry of India. The tour offers products that are exciting, entertaining and engaging. Clients will also have the opportunity to watch a live TV shoot. While driving to the various locations, you will be updated with the latest trivia, gossips, trends and fads of the industry by your effervescent host. 

Day 4 of Add On (Day 11 of entire trip): Depart Mumbai 

-Today you will be met and transferred to Mumbai international airport to board your flight back home. 

Cost Per Person 

Option 1 – Deluxe Hotels – 4 Star 

Option 2 – Superior  Hotels – 5 Star 

Per Person cost based on 2 Adults Traveling together 

Option 1 - USD 825 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis 

Option 2 - USD 968 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis 

Airfare for sector Delhi – Mumbai in Economy class Subject to change at the time of booking USD 85 Per Person  Note: - At all hotels base category room is included in pricing.   

Hotels:  Day City Deluxe – 4 Star Superior – 5 Star Day 08-11 (03 Nights) Mumbai Fariyas / The Gordon House Trident Nariman Point Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast  

Trip Includes:

-Accommodation: As specified in the itinerary on a twin share basis for: 3 nights 

-Meals: 4 Breakfasts at the hotels mentioned above  

-Transport: All transfers (arrival/departure), sightseeing tours & inter-city drives will be provided by air-conditioned Innova or Similar for upto 4 Pax. 

-Foxplore Travels Tours representative for all arrival / departure transfers at the airports.  

-Guides: A local English speaking guide for the sightseeing tour of Mumbai  Monument:  

- All monument entrances as mentioned in the itinerary for 1 time visit (Camera fee charges not included) 

-Bollywood City Tour  Other inclusions: 5% GST Daily & 2 water bottles per person while traveling  

The Above Cost Does Not Include:  

-Optional Excursions / activities mentioned or not mentioned in the itinerary; 

-Lunch or Dinner Tips of personal nature and other incidental expenses; Camera Charges; Porterages & Visa Fee, Any airfare Tips ,Insurance fee , laundry and phone calls and Any other costs incurred due to unforeseen circumstances / natural disasters..

This Extension is taking Place After the Main India Trip:

Goa, A kaleidoscopic blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, sweetened with sun, sea, sand, seafood, susegad and spirituality. Goa is India's pocket-sized paradise. The golden sandy beaches with the fusion of Indian and European cultures define the smallest Indian state of Goa. It is one of the alluring tourist destinations that offer a relaxed and fun-filled vacation by the sea. Delightful Goa Vacations are about beautiful beaches, happening parties, laid-back life, and delicious food. 

Goa Extension Day 1 (Day 8 of India Trip)

Delhi – Goa By Flight 

Fly from Delhi to Goa. On arrival in Goa you will be met and transferred to your hotel. 

Evening free for leisure. Overnight in Goa.  

Goa Extension Day 2 (Day 9 of India Trip)

Full day combined city tour of North & South Goa including visits to Calangute beach, Anjuna beach, Candolim beach, Fort Aguada area, Old city of Goa, Basilica of Bom Jesus Church, Museum of Christian art, Chapora fort, Maragoa, Menezes Braganza mansion, Mangueshi temple, Panaji city etc. Evening return back to hotel.  

Goa Extension Day 3 (Day 10 of India Trip)

leisure Day. Relax on beaches 

Goa Extension Day 4 (Day 11 of India Trip)

Depart Goa Today: You will be met and transferred to Mumbai or Delhi international airport to board the connecting flights back home. 

Hotels:  Day City Deluxe 5 Star Premium 5 Star-Day 8 – 11 (3 Nights) 

Deluxe 5 Star Options: Novotel Goa Resort & Spa / Holiday Inn Candolim / The O 

Premium 5 Star Options:  Hyatt Goa / Taj Fort Aguada Resort & SpaGrand 

Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast  

Our quote includes:  

-Accommodation:  As specified in the itinerary on twin share basis for 3 nights 

-Meals:  3 Breakfasts at the hotels mentioned above   

-Transport: All transfers (arrival/departure), sightseeing tours & inter-city drives will be provided by air-conditioned Innova or Similar for upto 4 Pax. 

-Foxplore Travels Tours representative for all arrival / departure transfers at the airports.   

-Guides: A local English speaking guide for the sightseeing tour of Goa Monument:  -All monument entrances as mentioned in the itinerary for 1 time visit (Camera fee   charges not included)  

-Other inclusions: 5% GST Daily 2 water bottles per person while traveling  

The Above Cost Does Not Include: 

Optional Excursions / activities mentioned or not mentioned in the itinerary; Lunch or Dinner, Tips of personal nature and other incidental expenses; Camera Charges; Porterages & Visa Fee, Any airfare Tips ,Insurance fee , laundry and phone call and Any other cost incurred due to unforeseen circumstances / natural disasters..

Costs:

Option 1 – 5 Star Deluxe Hotels: Per Person cost based on 2 Adults Traveling together  $752 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis 

Option 2 – 5 Star Premium  Hotels: $1065 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis

Day 1 (Day 8 of the total India trip)

Delhi to Dehradun- By Flight35 Kms / 1 Hour approx 

Dehradun to Rishikesh:

-In the morning fly to Dehradun. On arrival you will be met and driven to Rishikesh. Check in at your hotel. 

Rishikesh, the 'place of sages' is a celebrated spiritual town on the bank of Ganga and is surrounded by Shivalik range of the Himalayas on three sides. It is an ideal destination not only for pilgrims but also for those who want to delve deeper into meditation, yoga and other aspects of Hinduism. Rishikesh is also called the ‘Yoga capital of the world’. Evening free for leisure.  

Day 2 (Day 9 of the total India trip)

In the morning you'll visit: Laxman Jhula: One of the most prominent places in Rishikesh, Laxman Jhula is a 450-feet long suspension bridge at the height of 70 feet from the river. Built in the year 1939, the bridge is an important attraction as it is believed that it is the same place where Lord Laxman crossed the Ganga River on a jute rope. Ram Jhula: A few miles downstream from Laxman Jhula is the Ram Jhula. As you cross this bridge, you will witness the Himalayas peeking out of clouds on clear days and the Ganga River gushing down in full flow. It does make for a scenic vista which you don’t want to mis s when in Rishikesh. The bridge is also renowned for linking two popular ashrams of the town – Swarg Ashram on one end and the Sivananda Ashram on the other. About 450 feet long, this bridge offers breath-taking views of valleys and the temples around. Walk slowly if you want to take it all in. Parmarth Niketan Ashram: Parmarth Niketan is among the top places to visit in Rishikesh if you are an ardent Yoga follower. Established in the year 1942, this ashram has grown into one of the biggest spiritual places in the country. Triveni Ghat: It is one of the most famous ghats in Rishikesh and makes for a beautiful place to watch the evening Ganga Aarti. The sanctity of the Ghat comes from the legend that it sees the confluence of three major rivers – Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. The ghat is considered sacred and if Hindu mythology is to be believed, it is said that a dip in the holy water of Ganga near the ghat can purge all your sins. After all, this ghat has been mentioned in both our epics – Ramayana and Mahabharata. At sunset witness the famous ‘Ganga Aarti ‘performed by young Hindu monks at Parmarth Ashram. Every evening, as dusk descends, the banks of the river Ganges in the holy city of Rishikesh, light up with oil lamps breaking the darkness of the night and the resonating sounds of the hymns breaking the silence of the surroundings. Held at a picturesque location of the bank of the river at Parmarth Niketan Ashram, in front of a huge Shiva statue built on the river, the aarti here is performed not by Pandits but by resident children of the ashram, dressed in their saffron robes, who gather together each evening along with an intimate gathering of devotees to offer their prayers to the holy Ganga. As the sun sets the Shiva statue is lighted up and the ceremony commences with the singing of devotional songs, followed by ‘hawan’-offerrings to the fire god and culminates with the Aarti with lamps passed on from people to people and the children singing along with the spiritual head of the ashram in sweet melodious voices. The glowing oil lamps, the ringing temple bells, the brightly dressed little monks and the chanting of hymns is a truly serene and divine experience that stays with you for a long long time. 

Day 3 (Day 10 of the total India trip)

Rishikesh-is at leisure to enjoy on your own (Vehicle on your disposal for local use). Optional Tour: Visit to The Beatles Ashram (19 Kms from Rishikesh) After the Beatles visited the ashram to do transcendental meditation, the outlook on Indian spirituality changed the world over. The time the Beatles spent at the ashram is touted as one of their most productive periods where they wrote plenty of songs. If you are a Beatles fan, you have to visit the ashram and soak in its tranquility. The place is not maintained properly but still, the ruins look beautiful. Just find a spot inside the ashram and spend some time meditating. 

Day 4 (Day 11 of the total India trip)

Rishikesh – Dehradun By Car – 1 Hour 

Dehradun – Delhi By Flight 

Transfer to Dehradun airport to board the flight back to Delhi. Arrive in Delhi and make your way to your International flight from the same terminal. 

Cost Per Person: 

Option 1 – Deluxe Hotels 

Option 2 – Superior  Hotels Per Person 

Option 1 - Per Person cost based on 2 Adults Traveling together is $768 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis 

Option 2- $876 Per Person on Twin Sharing basis 

Airfare for sector Delhi-Dehradun-Delhi in economy class Subject to change $125 Per Person 

Note: - At all hotels base category room is included in pricing.  

Day 8 – 11 (3 Nights) 

Delux Options: Rishikesh Summit on the Ganges or Similar 

Superior Options: Neemrana Glassshouse on the Ganges / Aloha on the Ganges / Raga on the Ganges 

Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast  

Includes:  

-Accommodation: As specified in the itinerary on twin share basis for 3 nights 

-Meals: 3 Breakfasts at the hotels mentioned above  

-Transport: All transfers (arrival/departure), sightseeing tours & inter-city drives will be provided by air-conditioned Innova or Similar for up to 4 Pax. 

-Foxplore Travels Tour representative for all arrival / departure transfers at the airports.  

-Guides:  A local English speaking guide for the sightseeing tour of Rishikesh -Experiences: Ganga Aarti ceremony 

-Monument:  All monument entrances as mentioned in the itinerary for 1 time visit (Camera fee charges not included)  

-Other inclusions:  5% GST & Daily 2 water bottles per person while traveling  

The Above Cost Does Not Include:  

Optional Excursions / activities mentioned or not mentioned in the itinerary;  Lunch or Dinner Tips of personal nature and other incidental expenses; Camera Charges; Porterages & Visa Fee, Any airfare, Tips ,Insurance fee , laundry and phone calls. Any other cost incurred due to unforeseen circumstances / natural disasters..

Tour Highlights:  

-Witness the oldest form of dance i.e. Kathakali. 

-Enjoy overnight stay on the world famous backwater’s of Alleppey 

-Enjoy spice plantations tour in Thekkady 

-Periyar Lake boat ride 

Day 1 -(Day 8 of the full India Trip): 

Delhi - Cochin By: Flight  

Cochin-Thekkady By: Car – 140 Kms/3 Hours approx 

In the morning fly to Cochin. On arrival you will be met by a Foxplore Travels representative and transfered to Thekkady. On arrival check in at your hotel. Evening enjoy a boat ride at Lake Periyar.  Overnight at Cochin  

Day 2-(Day 9 of the full India Trip): 

Thekkady - Alleppey By: Car – 130 Kms / 3 Hours approx 

Post breakfast, proceed for the visit to Spice Plantation. Spice Plantation Visit at Periyar – The spice plantations in Kerala are captivating farms to wander in, since different spices are cultivated in different sections of each plantation. Visitors can gain rich knowledge about Ayurvedic cure, spice extracts, wood crafting etc. Visitors can be familiar with the various operations in spice growing and processing like planting, harvesting, drying, preparing spice extracts etc. 

Later you will be driven to Alleppey where you'll board your houseboat comprising of fully furnished bedrooms, a sundeck, an open lounge and a full crew. Fringing the coast of Kerala and winding far inland is a vast network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals. You'll enjoy a leisurely exploration cruise of the Kerala Backwaters, floating through these placid waters passing palm fringed canals, lakes and villages as you observe the locals going about their daily lives. Have lunch and dinner on board.

Day 3 (Overnight on board houseboat Day 10 of Full India Trip): 

Alleppey-Cochin By: Surface – 130 Kms / 3 Hours approx 

Disembark the houseboat and drive to Cochin. Known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea", Cochin was an important spice trading centre on India's West Coast from the 14th Century and remained the centre of India's worldwide spice trade for many centuries to come. Later proceed for a tour of the Fort Cochin area during which you see the famous Chinese fishing nets and may also encounter the day's catch being auctioned on the beach. You'll walk through the Old Town around Mattancherry Jetty, you'll visit St Francis Church of Cochin and tour the Mattancherry Palace (also known as the "Dutch Palace"). You'll then stroll through Jew Town where the oldest synagogue in India is located. This evening you are taken out to experience a Kathakali Dance performance, having originated in the state of Kerala during the 17th Century. Kathakali is a stylised classical Indian synthesis of dance, drama and music which will amaze you with its colour and grace.

Day 4-(Overnight at Cochin Day 11 of full India Trip): Cochin-Cochin airport drop (By Car – 1½ hours drive) After breakfast you will be transferred to Cochin airport to board the flight back to home.  

Hotels: 

Option 1 Deluxe Hotel – 4 Star: Cardamom County / Greenwoods Resort, Deluxe Houseboat, Radisson Blu / The Gateway Marine Drive

Option 2 Superior –5 Star Hotel: Poetree Sarovar Portico / Cardamom County, Superior Houseboat, Cochin  Old Harbor / Eighth Bastion / Le Meridian

Option 1 Price based on 2 people traveling together: $853 

Per Person on Twin Sharing basis

Option 2 Price based on 2 people traveling together: $935

Per Person on Twin Sharing basis

Meal Plan: 

Bed & Breakfast at all hotels except during stay at Houseboat where all 3 meals are included  

Our quote includes:  

Accommodation: As specified in the itinerary on twin share basis for 3 nights 

Meals:  4 Breakfasts at the hotels mentioned above : All 3 meals whilst stay at Houseboat   

Transport: All transfers (arrival/departure), sightseeing tours & inter-city drives will be provided by air-conditioned Innova or Similar for upto 4 Pax. 

Foxplore Travels Tours representative for all arrival / departure transfers at the airports.  

Guides & Entrances: 

A local English speaking guide for the sightseeing tours and excursions as per program

All monument entrances + Boat Ride at Lake Periyar included 

Spice Plantations tour in Thekkady Monument

All monument entrances as mentioned in the itinerary for 1 time visit (Camera fee charges not included)  

Other inclusions: 5% GST Daily 2 water bottles per person while traveling 

Imp Note: Dutch Palace is closed on Fridays & National Holidays and Jewish Synagogue is closed on Fridays, Saturday and Jewish holidays  

The Above Cost Does Not Include:  

Optional Excursions / activities mentioned or not mentioned in the itinerary; Lunch or Dinner Tips of personal nature and other incidental expenses; Camera Charges; Porterages & Visa Fee, Any airfare Tips ,Insurance fee , laundry and phone calls, Any other cost incurred due to unforeseen circumstances / natural disasters..