Compare Great India by Indus Travels vs Inspirational India, a Wander Women Journey, Summer 2022 by Insight Vacations

Make your way to your gateway airport to board your flight to India. Enjoy in-flight meals and services. Overnight onboard the flight

Evening: Welcome to Delhi, India! A monumental city with a vibrant mix of old and new teeming bazaars, stately British boulevards, powerful Mughal palaces and forts, and intricate, ethereal towers, temples and tombs. On arrival at Delhi International Airport you will be met and assisted by our company executive and transferred to your hotel. 
Accommodation: Overnight in Delhi

Breakfast: At hotel 
Morning: Tour Old and New Delhi visiting Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s serene and evocative cremation site, India Gate (the War Memorial) and the Presidents House (from the outside), the Baha’i Lotus Temple (closed on Mondays) - this distinctive lotus shaped marvel in marble is a symbol of peace, the Qutub Minar a stunning 
240-foot minaret, the tallest in the world surrounded by an elaborate complex built in the Indo-Islamic architectural tradition.
Afternoon: Drive to Agra. On arrival check in to the hotel
Evening: At leisure
Accommodation: Overnight in Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast

Early Morning: Visit Taj Mahal a sunrise (closed on Fridays). Often considered the pinnacle of Mughal art in India, the Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. When declaring it a world heritage site, UNESCO described it as “the jewel of Muslim art in India”. There are few words that can describe the magnificence of this monument. Marvel as light and colors transform this stunning monument in the beautiful dawn glow. Return back to the hotel
Breakfast: At hotel 

Afternoon: Later take a Marble craftsmanship demonstration

Later we will discover the Agra Fort, another UNESO heritage site built and added to between the 16th and 17th centuries by successive rulers of the Mughal Dynasty. The fort was built primarily as a military structure, but Shah Jahan upgraded it to a palace and later it became his gilded prison for 8 years after his son Aurangzeb seized power. The elegant building inside reflects an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles.
Evening: Accommodation: Overnight in Agra

Breakfast: At hotel
Morning: Drive to Jaipur, en-route visit Fatehpur Sikri -an eerily abandoned capital from the Mughal Empire between 1570 and 1586. Akbar built this city to celebrate the birth of his son and future heir to the throne, Emperor Jahangir. While Akbar is believed to have been illiterate, he took great interest in the arts and architecture; Fatehpur Sikri is one of his masterworks. Sadly, it served as capital for little more than a decade, eventually abandoned for lack of accessible water.
Afternoon: Demonstration of gem-cutting & polishing
Evening: On arrival check in to the hotel. Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital is also known as the Pink City. The origin of this nickname becomes immediately apparent as you enter the old city walls and greet the pink-colored buildings that rise at every turn.

Accommodation: Overnight in Jaipur
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At hotel
Morning: Start with an exhilarating excursion to Amber Fort perched on top of a hill. A royal ride on elephant (subject to availability) up the hill like the Maharajas of past times and visit the Jagmandir (the hall of victory). Perched on a hillside on the outskirts of town, the palace was constructed in the 1590s by Maharaja Man Singh, the commander of Akbar’s army, and was largely motivated by the highly defensible location. This is a beautiful and very well preserved structure, built on four levels and surrounded by ruins, which served as the backdrop for the Mira Nair movie “Kama Sutra: A Tale of Love.”

Afternoon: At leisure or Join the Jaipur City optional tour
Accommodation: Overnight in Jaipur
Meals Included: Breakfast
 

Breakfast: At hotel
Morning: Drive to Pushkar a sacred city for Hindus. Surrounded by hills on three sides and sand dunes on the fourth, Pushkar forms a fascinating location and a befitting backdrop for the annual religious and cattle fair (held in November). A quiet, secluded desert town for 51 weeks a year, for just a few days it becomes an absolutely incredible and authentic extravaganza during the annual Pushkar Fair. Drawing people from all around the globe, it is also quite possibly the largest camel and cattle-trading fair in the world.
Afternoon: Arrive in Pushkar; check in to the hotel. Enjoy a walking tour of the holy city of the God, Brahma; visit the holy Pushkar Lake and the famous 8th century Brahma Temple dedicated to Lord Brahma the creator of the universe and the only Bull temple in the world. Experience a special Pooja ceremony at a Ghat with a Hindu priest on the banks of Pushkar Lake
Accommodation: Overnight in Pushkar (Special Deluxe Tents during the Pushkar Camel Fair)
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At hotel
Morning: After breakfast drive to Udaipur. Udaipur is the majestic city of lakes and palaces. Founded by Maharana Udai Singh in 1559 and fondly referred to as Rajasthan’s most romantic city, its rich history is matched by its picturesque setting among the Aravalli Mountains and three manmade lakes.

Afternoon: On arrival in Udaipur; check in to the hotel.

Accommodation: Overnight in Udaipur
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At hotel
Morning: Begin our day at the City Palace, overlooking the blue waters of Lake Pichola. Maharana Udai Singh initiated construction in 1559 A.D. and it was subsequently expanded, with impressive uniformity, by several succeeding Maharanas. The palace consists of a number of beautiful courtyards and gardens. The main hall has been converted into a museum, housing opulent artifacts and original works of art. Inside the complex we will find the exquisite crystal gallery, exhibiting 19th century pieces including crystal chandeliers, tables, sofas and beds. We will continue walking towards the Jagdish Temple to study its many remarkable friezes. Lavishly built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh, it is easy to understand why Jagdish is the most venerated Hindu temple in Udaipur. Afterwards we will explore the Old City, wandering through its bustling streets lined with art shops, spice vendors, tailors and more.

Accommodation: Overnight in Udaipur
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At hotel
Morning: Drive to Jodhpur, en-route visit Ranakpur Temple built in the 15th century and located in a valley on the western side of the Aravali Range. Ranakpur is considered one of the five holiest sites of the Jain community and is exceptionally beautiful. Over 1444 marble pillars, each differently carved in exquisite detail; support the temple although legend has it that it is really impossible to count the pillars. Not to be missed in the temple is one carving out of a single stone with 108 heads of snakes and numerous tails. 
Afternoon: Upon arrival check in to the hotel
Evening At leisure
Accommodation: Overnight in Jodhpur
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At hotel 
Morning: Visit Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada. Later drive to Jaisalmer founded by Prince Jaisal in 1156. Jaisalmer was a major staging post on the trade route across the forbidding Thar Desert. The first glimpse of the honey colored walls of the fort, rising out of the hot and barren desert is magical. Untouched by time, Jaisalmer, with its golden crenulated walls, narrow streets lined with exquisite havelis, has a medieval ambience.
Afternoon: Arrive in Jaisalmer; check in to the hotel
Evening: At leisure
Accommodation: Overnight in Jaisalmer
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At hotel
Morning: Tour Jaisalmer; the fort, often referred to as the Golden Fort because of the color of the stone, encloses palaces decorated with delicate jali or lattice worked screens, carved doors and floral carvings and elaborately carved 12th to 16th century Jain temples. The havelis in both the fort and the town are exceptional, similar in style to the homes of Venetian merchants; the havelis were the mansions of wealthy traders. The houses are decorated with beautifully carved facades, screens and windows. Each haveli has an inner courtyard surrounded by richly decorated apartments. Walk through the narrow streets of the fort to see the Nathmalji-ki-Haveli with its beautiful arched roof with carved brackets in the form of peacocks; Patwon-ki-Haveli the most elaborate and magnificent haveli and best known for its latticed façade and Salim Singh 
ki Haveli. Outside the walls of the fortified town is the small oasis of Gadi Sagar, which led Prince Jaisal to found his city.

Accommodation: Overnight in Jaisalmer
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At hotel
Morning: After breakfast drive to Bikaner
Afternoon: Arrive in Bikaner; check in to the hotel. Day at leisure.
Accommodation: Overnight in Bikaner
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At hotel
Morning: Visit Junagarh Fort, begun by Raja Rai Singh in the 16th century, but was added on over the next three centuries. The outer wall, built of light red sandstone is surrounded by a moat, and within are beautifully designed palaces with balconies, kiosks, fine jali or lattice work screens with richly decorated interiors. The Badal Mahal in the fort has walls covered with stories from Krishna’s life, whilst the walls of the oldest palace, the Lal Niwas, are elaborately decorated in red and gold. Drive to Mandawa
Afternoon: Arrive at Mandawa; check in to the hotel. Enjoy a walking tour of Mandawa dominated by a painted arched gateway adorned with Lord Krishna and his cows. Visit Chokhani and Ladia Havelis and the street with Saraf Havelis
Accommodation: Overnight in Mandawa
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At the hotel 
Morning: Depart back to Delhi 
Afternoon: Transfer to Delhi airport to board a flight to Chennai. Welcome to Chennai! On arrival at Chennai International Airport you will be met and assisted by our company executive and transferred to Mamallapuram with its picturesque location on a rocky outcrop between the beach and a lagoon. Mamallapuram is referred to as an ‘open-air museum’. The name Mamallapuram is believed to have been given after the Pallava King Narasimhavarman I, who took on the epithet Maha-malla (great wrestler), as the favourite sport of the Pallavas was wrestling. It has various historic monuments built largely between the 7th and the 9th centuries, and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Accommodation: Overnight in Mamallapuram
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At the hotel
Morning: At leisure. You may relax by the beach. The spectacular Mahabalipuram beach is shored by the Bay of Bengal with the dreamy rock cut sculptures astonishing to the eyes. The ancient port city of the Pandavas full of activities on the sea side, it still breathes with the pallava art forms.

Evening: At leisure
Accommodation: Overnight in Mamallapuram
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At the hotel
Morning: Depart for Pondicherry attractively set on the Bay of Bengal with delightful unspoiled beaches. This surprising town is a throwback to colonial times when it was a French enclave, but is now richly blended with Tamil culture. Those used to British colonial architecture will enjoy the Gallic imprint with the profusion of Catholic churches 
and distinctly French buildings and excellent French restaurants. En-route visit Auroville, the French village inspired by the Mother as a place where people can come together, regardless of nationality, belief or colour, to live a meaningful life. Experimental buildings combining Western and Indian elements are located along the narrow rural road shaded by lush greenery. This utopia supports itself through agriculture, handicrafts and alternative technology. Well known for the Shri Aurobindo Ashram that was set up by one of his disciples, a Parisian known as The Mother, in his memory and is one of the most active ashrams in India. 
Afternoon: Check-in to the hotel 
Evening: At leisure
Accommodation: Overnight in Pondicherry
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At the hotel
Morning: Drive to Tanjore a bustling market town in one of the main rice-growing regions of Tamil Nadu, Tanjore was once the capital of the Chola Empire and, although many buildings from that period no longer survive, the town is still full of lovely temples. En-route you may stop at Dharasuram Temple built in memory of the White elephant; Airavath from the god’s family, the temple’s original name was “Airavatheshwar.”
Late Afternoon: Check-in to the hotel 
Accommodation: Overnight in Tanjore
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At the hotel
Morning: Explore Tanjore; visit Brihadeshvara Temple. This magnificent temple, over 1000 years old and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, evokes the power of the Chola kings as it towers over the town. Study the detailed inscriptions which depict temple life and the dancers, musicians, potters, goldsmiths and astrologers who lived there. With a history of traditional bronze casting here you will have the opportunity to view the masters at work using the lost-wax method. This method, used to create sacred temple bronzes during the Chola period, is still practiced today and is being passed down through the generations to ensure that bronze casting continues to thrive also.
Afternoon: Continue on to Madurai, a vast, pulsating city, one of the oldest cities in South India, dating back 2500 years, sprawls along the banks of the River Vaigai. Wander through the fun, packed streets which are full of pilgrims, wandering cows, open-air kitchens and colourful bazaars.
Evening: Upon arrival check in to the hotel. 
Accommodation: Overnight in Madurai
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At the hotel
Morning: At leisure

Accommodation: Overnight in Madurai
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At the hotel
Morning: Drive to Peiryar, also known as Thekkady, a breathtakingly beautiful sanctuary located nearly 1800 m above sea level in the dense semi and evergreen deciduous forests of Idukki district. Thekkady is a landlocked home for its myriad fauna and flora as well as for the Mannans, Palians and Ooralie tribes who still continue their ancient methods of herding and bee keeping. Check-in to the hotel. 
Visit the Spice Plantation. Renowned for their spice plantations, the Cardamom Hills are the ideal location to explore a garden where spices and other aromatic plants are grown. Learn about their use in the preparation of local cuisine and their medicinal properties and you may also enjoy an optional short ride on an elephant (supplement cost applicable) to get the best view of the stunning scenery.
Accommodation: Overnight in Periyar
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day at leisure or join the below optional tour
Breakfast: At the hotel
Afternoon: Depart for Kumarakom a cluster of tiny islands almost impossibly beautiful, surrounded by a labyrinth of tropical waterways. Kumarakom is the jumping off point to join a boat to explore the Kerala backwaters.

Accommodation: Overnight in Kumarakom
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At the hotel
Morning: Spend your time at leisure at this tranquil resort. 
Evening: At leisure
Accommodation: Overnight in Kumarakom
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At the hotel
Morning: Drive to Cochin where European influences are instantly apparent in this charming town picturesquely located on a number of islands squeezed between the Arabian Sea and the Kerala backwaters. The maritime history of Cochin is reflected in its blend of Dutch, Portuguese and British architecture. 
Afternoon: At leisure
Accommodation: Overnight in Cochin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast: At the hotel
Today: Today you will be transferred to Cochin International Airport for your onward flight.

Arrive back in USA

Day 1: Welcome to Delhi

After your arrival at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Airport, you are greeted with the traditional floral garland and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow female travellers for a welcome drink, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: The hustle and bustle of Old Delhi Relaxed Start

Dive into Old Delhi’s symphony of sounds, smells, tastes and colours as you wander down beautiful narrow lanes and taste authentic Delhi street food. Visit an elegant haveli, an old private mansion and enjoy a delicious lunch with a local family.This afternoon, visit the Sikh temple Bangla Sahib Gurdwara and take a walk through their community kitchen where you witness the practice of langar: serving food free of charge to anyone who is hungry. This beautiful act promoting equality also involves the Sikh women who help with the preparation of the meals.

Day 3: Exploring New Delhi

Today explore New Delhi, largely built by the British in the early 20th century. Drive along the Rajpath to see the war memorial India Gate and the colonnaded Parliament House. Visit the 16th century Tomb of Emperor Humayun. This marvelous example of Mughal architecture went on to inspire the design of the Taj Mahal. Continue your exploration of Delhi with Insight Choice. Choose to get creative and hands on as you take part in a jewelery making class. Alternatively, enjoy abhyangam, an Aryuveda massage practice whereby oil is applied to your body by two skilled therapists.

Day 4: Delhi to Agra

Journey to Agra and visit its historical fort complex resembling a walled city. The Agra fort is made up of a series of impressive buildings including the Sheesh Mahal or “glass palace” and the The Muthamman Burj. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Sheroes Café and meet the inspiring women behind it who are survivors of acid attacks. Be encouraged by their resilience and enjoy this opportunity to chat to them about their stories and support their cause in raising awareness.

Day 5: The unmatched beauty of the Taj Mahal

Put on a traditional saree in preparation for your visit to the Taj Mahal, a true highlight of your journey. Following the death of his wife, Emperor Shahjahan vowed to honor her with a memorial of unmatched beauty. He commissioned the world's best craftsmen and 20,000 workers to build this mausoleum. You can’t help but be awestruck by this delicately carved white marble jewel. Later, enjoy lunch on your way to Jaipur, the stunning capital city of Rajasthan state. In the evening visit the local market and shop for a traditional Indian dress for the upcoming Diwali celebrations.

Day 6: Jaipur through the locals’ eyes

On your city tour see the Hawa Maha, the Palace of the Winds. Its stunning lace-like facadehas 953 windows. Visit the Jantar Mantar Royal Observatory, and the neighbouring City Palace, housing a fabulous collection of Rajasthani and Mughal art.  Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet the ladies of the Pink City Rickshaw Company, dedicated to empowering women from low-income households. Continue your exploration of Jaipur with Insight Choice. Choose to take part in a demonstration of the art of Mehndi, the traditional henna body painting. Alternatively, learn a few new moves at an energetic Bollywood dance class.  Tonight, join a local family to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Get involved in the preparations for Lakshmi Puja by lighting oil lamps around the house, to invite the goddess Lakshmi to come home. Learn how to prepare traditional meals by watching a cooking demonstration before feasting on a delicious dinner.

Day 7: The Pink City

Start your day with a yoga session led by a female guru and explore the deeper meaning of yoga postures, breathing techniques, and the importance of harmony between body, mind and spirit. Explore Jaipur with Insight Choice. Choose to go on a walking tour in the bazaars where you will meet the colourful characters involved in gem-polishing, tie die or bangle-making as well as the world-renowned pickle makers. Alternatively, visit a Blue Pottery workshop and see how this characteristic local pottery is made. In the late afternoon, ascend the hilltop Amber Fort by jeep and experience India’s spiritual majesty with a special Hindu blessing ceremony. Feel like royalty as you dine at the opulent 1135 AD Restaurant and savour mouthwatering Rajasthani cuisine accompanied by impeccable service.

Day 8: Chandelao and the Blue City of Jodhpur

Meet the female artisans of the Sunder Rang Arts and Crafts Project in Chandelao village, producing traditional Rajasthani textiles and handicrafts. The workshop enables and empowers women to earn a fair living through developing their craft skills and providing a sustainable income. After your lunch, continue to the Blue City of Johdpur and tonight take a stroll through the Ghanta Ghar, the clock tower market. Perhaps pick up some Mathania chilis or flavoured teas and try some lassi.

Day 9: Exploring Jodhpur

This morning, venture to a nearby village and meet the Bishnoi people, who for 500 years have protected nature to ensure the survival of endangered species like the majestic black buck antelope. On your return to Jodhpur, visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort and see the marble cenotaph of Jaswant Thada. In the afternoon, meet an astrologer and learn about the importance of the influence of planets. Indulge in a Highlight Dinner at Khaas Bagh, a worthy tribute to the legendary lifestyle of princely India surrounded by handpicked memorabilia of the Raj Period that include a fleet of dazzling vintage cars.

Day 10: Ranakpur And Udaipur

Travel to Ranakpur to explore the elaborate carvings and classic architecture of the Jain Temples before meeting a priest and attending a special prayer ceremony. Enjoy an al fresco lunch served under a 300-year-old banyan tree at Mountbatten Lodge, a unique boutique hotel in the wilderness. Continue to Udaipur. Founded in the 16th century, the city is set around a series of artificial lakes and surrounded by the ridges of the Aravalli Hills.

Day 11: Explore Udaipur Relaxed Start

Explore the City Palace complex, visit the Jagdish Temple and explore the Garden of the Maids of the Honour. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Seva Mandir Organization, working to empower women by building stronger and more ethical communities. Wander through the bazaars to see the spice and textile markets and later cruise the serene waters of Lake Pichola. Tonight, experience Bedla hospitality at your Celebration Dinner. The Bedla Family had the distinction of serving their cuisine to Queen Elizabeth II, Jacqueline Kennedy and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Hear their fascinating stories and enjoy excellent entertainment while dining on superb culinary delights and toasting to your journey in incredible India.

Day 12: Fly to Delhi

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before you fly to Delhi and your journey comes to an end. For your onward travels please schedule your flight after 21:00 from Delhi.