Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai & Varanasi

Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai & Varanasi

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14 Days From

$5172

$4734

Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai & Varanasi

14 Days Starting in Mumbai, India and ending in Delhi, India

Visiting: Mumbai, Varanasi, Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur, Asia

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

ODQ4-2025

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours, Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $5172 $4734 Barrhead discount: -$439

NB: Prices correct on 23-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through India with the "Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai & Varanasi" tour. Begin in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, exploring iconic sites like Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Fly to the sacred city of Varanasi, then on to Delhi to see the Red Fort and India Gate. Experience the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal at sunrise and the historic Agra Fort. Discover the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri and enjoy thrilling game drives in Ranthambore National Park. Conclude your adventure in the vibrant "Pink City" of Jaipur, before returning to Delhi. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural landmarks, wildlife encounters, and historical wonders, all while staying in luxurious accommodations and enjoying guided tours and delicious meals.

Highlights

  • Explore the vibrant history of Mumbai, India's premier seaport and home to the "Bollywood" movie industry.

  • Visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, the Gateway of India, and witness Mumbai's tiffin lunch box delivery system.

  • Fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities.

  • See the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace in Delhi, and take a rickshaw ride through a local bazaar.

  • Visit Qutub Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret, and Humayun's Tomb in Delhi.

  • Experience a sunrise visit to the captivating Taj Mahal and explore Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Stop at Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore Ranthambore National Park on game drives.

  • Travel to Jaipur, known as the "Pink City," and explore its rich history and culture.

Places You'll See

Trident, Nariman Point

Taj Ganges, Varanasi

Le Meridien New Delhi

Trident, Agra

Ranthambhore Kothi

Jaipur Marriott Hotel

Novotel New Delhi Aerocity

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Mumbai,India

Location: Mumbai

Accommodation Name: Trident, Nariman Point

Welcome to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a vibrant history—now India’s premier seaport and home to the “Bollywood” movie industry.

Day 2: Mumbai

Location: Mumbai

Accommodation Name: Trident, Nariman Point

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Join your Local Guide for an orientation of some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Please note: You will meet your Tour Director on day 5 in Delhi.MUMBAI Magical Mumbai Join your Local Guide for an orientation of some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. (B,L) Please note: You will meet your Tour Director on day 5 in Delhi.

Day 3: Mumbai,Varanasi

Location: Varanasi

Accommodation Name: Taj Ganges, Varanasi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities.

Day 4: Varanasi

Location: Varanasi

Accommodation Name: Taj Ganges, Varanasi

Meals Included: Breakfast

VARANASI Sacred Rituals Near dawn, join your Local Guide and board a boat and watch a meaningful religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. You’ll observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, practicing yoga or meditation. Return to your hotel for breakfast and time at leisure. Early this evening, witness the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT FIRE & WATER Witness the light of ancient tradition as night descends on the Ganges River in Varanasi. Witness the devotional offerings made to the Goddess Ganga in the aarti performed at the river’s edge as it has been done throughout the ages. A ritual of fire, faithful Hindus float “diyas” (small candle and flowers) on the waters of the Ganges River, while praying for the blessing of Maa Ganga.

Day 5: Varanasi,Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation Name: Le Meridien New Delhi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, fly to Delhi, capital of India.

Day 6: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation Name: Le Meridien New Delhi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s sightseeing starts with an orientation to see the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Then, visit Jama Masjid and take a [LF] rickshaw ride through a local bazaar. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of free time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner that includes a cooking demonstration and talk on Indian cuisine with a local chef.

Day 7: Delhi,Agra

Location: Delhi

Accommodation Name: Trident, Agra

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, visit Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in for the evening.

Day 8: Agra

Location: Agra

Accommodation Name: Trident, Agra

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start your day with a sunrise visit to the captivating Taj Mahal. After a bit of down time, travel to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces.

Day 9: Agra,Fatehpur Sikri,Ranthambore National Park Area

Location: Ranthambore National Park

Accommodation Name: Ranthambhore Kothi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, stop at Fatehpur Sikri (the City of Victory), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century it was the capital of the Mughal Empire for merely 10 years before it was completely abandoned due to the lack of adequate water. After lunch in Bharatpur, board a train bound for Sawai Madhopur, gateway to Ranthambore National Park, one of the best places in India to spot the elusive Bengal tiger!

Day 10: Ranthambore Area

Location: Ranthambore National Park

Accommodation Name: Ranthambhore Kothi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, explore Ranthambore National Park on morning and afternoon game drives in an open-air safari vehicle. Between game drives, enjoy free time to relax.

Day 11: Ranthambore Area,Jaipur

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation Name: Jaipur Marriott Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, travel to Jaipur. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and known as the “Pink City” ever since.

Day 12: Jaipur

Location: Jaipur

Accommodation Name: Jaipur Marriott Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Jaipur,Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation Name: Novotel New Delhi Aerocity

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fly back to Delhi this morning and prepare for your journey home.

Day 14: Delhi

Location: Delhi

Accommodation Name: Novotel New Delhi Aerocity

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.

What's Included

  • Flights

    The tour includes flights between Mumbai, Varanasi, and Delhi.

  • Train Journey

    The tour includes a train journey to Sawai Madhopur for Ranthambore National Park.

  • Ground Transportation

    Ground transportation is provided by coach for other segments of the tour.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided at the following hotels: Trident, Nariman Point in Mumbai; Taj Ganges, Varanasi; Le Meridien New Delhi; Trident, Agra; Ranthambhore Kothi; Jaipur Marriott Hotel; and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity.

  • Meals

    The tour includes breakfast daily, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours are included for various sites such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, the Gateway of India, and more.

  • Game Drives

    The tour includes morning and afternoon game drives in Ranthambore National Park.

  • UNESCO Sites

    Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Agra Fort, Amber Fort, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Fatehpur Sikri, and Jaipur Walled City are included.

  • Small Group Discoveries

    The tour offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • Gratuities

    Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees and processing are not included.

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from India are not included.

Meals

Breakfast daily, 6 lunches, 5 dinners

Small Group

Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.

UNESCO Sites

Agra Fort|Amber Fort|Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus|Fatehpur Sikri|Jaipur Walled City

Accommodation

Mumbai: Trident, Nariman Point; Varanasi: Taj Ganges, Varanasi; Delhi: Le Meridien New Delhi; Agra: Trident, Agra; Ranthambore National Park: Ranthambhore Kothi; Jaipur: Jaipur Marriott Hotel; Delhi: Novotel New Delhi Aerocity.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes flights between Mumbai, Varanasi, and Delhi, as well as a train journey to Sawai Madhopur for Ranthambore National Park. Ground transportation is provided by coach for other segments of the tour.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes flights between Mumbai, Varanasi, and Delhi, as well as a train journey to Sawai Madhopur for Ranthambore National Park. Ground transportation is provided by coach for other segments of the tour.

  • What types of meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes breakfast daily, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    Accommodation is provided at the following hotels: Trident, Nariman Point in Mumbai; Taj Ganges, Varanasi; Le Meridien New Delhi; Trident, Agra; Ranthambhore Kothi; Jaipur Marriott Hotel; and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity.

  • Are guided tours included in the itinerary?

    Yes, guided tours are included for various sites such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, the Gateway of India, and more.

  • Will there be opportunities to see wildlife during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes morning and afternoon game drives in Ranthambore National Park, which is one of the best places in India to spot the elusive Bengal tiger.

  • Are visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites included?

    Yes, visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Agra Fort, Amber Fort, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Fatehpur Sikri, and Jaipur Walled City are included.

  • What is the group size for this tour?

    The tour offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure.

  • Are personal expenses covered in the tour package?

    No, personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    No, travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.

  • Are gratuities included in the tour package?

    No, gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

  • Are international flights included in the tour package?

    No, international flights to and from India are not included.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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