The Grand Tour of India

The Grand Tour of India

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The Grand Tour of India

17 Days Starting in Amritsar, Punjab, India and ending in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

Visiting: India

Tour operator:

Cox & Kings

Group size:

0 - 18

Age range:

-99

Tour operated in:
English
Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

4WD, Walking

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Explore the diverse cultural influences that have created the fascinating heritage of India. This tour encompasses holy cities, the resplendent Taj Mahal, Jodhpur’s bluewashed houses, and the beautiful lakes and palaces of Udaipur. Go in search of the elusive Royal Bengal tiger and extend your journey in the idyllic backwaters of Kerala.

Highlights

  • Evening Palki Sahib ceremony at the Golden Temple, Amritsar

  • Dine in a regal palace

  • Explore Varanasi’s hidden alleys and markets

  • Take part in Holi celebrations at the Maharajah’s Palace, Udaipur

  • Stay in a former fort to explore rural Rajasthan

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Fly London To Amritsar Via Delhi

Fly from London (regional connections available) to Amritsar, via Delhi, with British Airways.

Meal basis: As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.

Day 2 : Amritsar

Accommodation Name: Taj Swarna, Amritsar

Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive in Amritsar and transfer to Taj Swarna for 2 nights. Visit the Golden Temple for the auspicious Palki Sahib night ceremony. A welcome dinner will be held this evening. (D)

Day 3 : Amritsar - Wagah

Accommodation Name: Taj Swarna, Amritsar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Morning visit to the Golden Temple and its vast community kitchen (langar). Weave your way through Qila Ahluwalia, a fort replete with colonial architectural features, before arriving at the Jalebiwala Chowk with its jalebi shop selling delicious sticky sweets. Late afternoon visit to Wagah, for the unmissable Changing of the Guard ceremony. (B)

Day 4 : Fly To Varanasi Via Delhi

Accommodation Name: Taj Ganges, Varanasi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Morning flight to Varanasi for an overnight stay at the Taj Ganges. This evening, visit the Dasaswamedh ghats (stepped wharfs) to witness the magical aarti ceremony from a boat on the Ganges. On the 12 November 2024 and 2 November 2025 departures, enjoy the Dev Diwali celebrations, when the steps of the ghats are lit with more than a million earthen lamps. (B)

Day 5 : Varanasi - Fly To Delhi

Accommodation Name: Taj Palace

Meals Included: Breakfast

Early morning sunrise boat ride on the Ganges. Walking tour of Varanasi’s hidden alleys, paan bazaar, craftsmen colony and the spice, jewellery and flower markets. Take an evening flight to Delhi for a 2-night stay at the Taj Palace. (B)

Day 6 : Old & New Dehli

Accommodation Name: Taj Palace

Meals Included: Breakfast

Morning tour of Old Delhi including a drive past the Red Fort, visit to the Jama Masjid mosque, and walking tour. Afternoon tour of New Delhi including a drive past India Gate and the viceregal residence, before visiting Qutb Minar and the tomb of Mughal Emperor, Humayun. (B)

Day 7 : Agra

Accommodation Name: Trident Hotel Agra

Meals Included: Breakfast

Take the Gatimaan Express train to Agra for an overnight stay at Trident Agra. Afternoon visit to the huge Agra Fort. This evening, visit the Taj Mahal bathed in golden light as the sun sets. (B)

Day 8 : Fatehpur Silkri - Rathambore

Accommodation Name: Dev Vilas

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit Mehtab Bagh Gardens to see the Taj Mahal in the golden hour of sunrise. Drive to Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted 16th-century sandstone city. Continue to Bharatpur for lunch at the regal Laxmi Vilas Palace before a train ride to Sawai Madhopur. Transfer to Dev Vilas for 2 nights. (B, L, D)

Day 9 : Ranthambore

Accommodation Name: Dev Vilas

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Early morning and late afternoon wildlife viewing on a 4x4 jeep safari. (B, L, D)

Day 10 : Jaipur

Accommodation Name: Devi Ratn

Meals Included: Breakfast

Morning drive to Jaipur to stay at the Devi Ratn Hotel for 2 nights. Based on the design of the famous Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory, Devi Ratn is a contemporary hotel with traditional Jaipuri features and beautiful views over the surrounidng Aravalli Hills. Afternoon at leisure. Evening aarti ceremony at a local Hindu temple. (B)

Day 11 : Jaipur

Accommodation Name: Devi Ratn

Meals Included: Breakfast

Morning tour of the ancient palace of Amber Fort. Afternoon visit to the City Palace and Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory. (B)

Day 12 : Jodhpur - Rohet

Accommodation Name: Rohet Garh

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Drive to Jodhpur. Visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort and wander through the streets of blue-washed Brahmin houses. Stay at Rohet Garh, a family-run former fort, for 2 nights. (B, D)

Day 13 : Rohet

Accommodation Name: Rohet Garh

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day at leisure. Optional 4x4 safari to visit the Bishnoi tribal village. (B, D)

Day 14 : Ranakpur - Udaipur

Accommodation Name: Trident Hotel Udaipur

Meals Included: Breakfast

Drive to the lake city of Udaipur, visiting the exquisite Jain temples at Ranakpur en route. Stay at the Trident Udaipur for 2 nights. (B)

Day 15 : Udaipur

Accommodation Name: Trident Hotel Udaipur

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Morning tour of the City Palace and a miniature painting studio. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure followed by a farewell dinner. Evening Bagore ki-Haveli cultural show. Holi festival departures will witness the celebrations at the Maharajah’s Palace. (B, D)

Day 16 : Fly To Delhi

Accommodation Name: Vivanta New Delhi Dwarka

Meals Included: Breakfast

Transfer to the airport and and fly to Delhi for an overnight stay and farewell drink at the Vivanta by Taj Dwarka. (B)

Day 17 : Fly From Delhi To London

Meals Included: Breakfast

Transfer to the airport for a direct flight to London with British Airways. (B)

What's Included

  • Small group size - average 12 people (max 18)

  • 4- & 5-star accommodation

  • Flexible - extensions, room & flight upgrades available

  • International flights with British Airways

  • Internal flights in India with 20kg luggage allowance

Check out our Q&As

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As Detailed in itinerary.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    4- & 5-star accommodation on this tour.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    The maximum average group size is 12 people.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, English speaking experienced local tour manager on this tour.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    Yes, Single supplement is available on request.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights with British Airways and Internal flights are included.

  • What is the difference between a 'single' supplement and 'sole' supplement?

    A 'single' traveller is someone occupying a single room while travelling with one or more other people, for example a single person travelling on a group tour. A 'sole' traveller is someone travelling on their own. As a single traveller on a group tour (except those in the SoloTravellers collection), please check the single supplement price. If you wish to add an extension to that tour, please th

  • When will I get my tickets?

    Travel documents will be sent approximately two weeks prior to departure (third party suppliers' policies may vary), unless your booking is made within six weeks of departure, in which case final documents will be sent as soon as possible.

  • When do I need to pay my final balance?

    Final payment must be made no less than 75 days before departure.

  • Why do I have to pay more for my holiday if I am a single traveller?

    Most hotels around the world charge more per person for a single occupancy room than for a shared twin room, because the cost of maintaining a room for one person can be almost as high as it is for two. In addition, many single occupancy rooms are the same as twin / double rooms. The Solo Travellers collection of small group tours is specially created to include accommodation based on single occu

  • Can Cox & Kings arrange my visa?

    We cannot arrange your visa but we can recommend a reputable visa assistance company who can help with your application. Please contact your tour consultant for details.

  • Do your prices include flights?

    All prices for Cox & Kings holidays include international flights, except where indicated. Australasia and Canada holidays do not include international flights so that you may benefit from the best prices at the time you choose to book, taking advantage of major seasonal variations and short term special offers. For all destinations, you may be able to arrange your own flights. If you wish to do

  • What is a non-exclusive escorted group tour?

    The vast majority of our group tours are exclusive to Cox & Kings clients. However, there are a few exceptions where holidaymakers who booked their tour with another travel company travel in the group.

  • When will I get a detailed itinerary?

    If you are travelling on a group tour, you will receive a detailed itinerary with your travel pack. If travelling on a private basis, you will receive your detailed itinerary with your confirmation invoice.

  • What are the four tour categories

    ***LUXURY These are our most comfortable tours and will usually feature 5-star deluxe accommodation throughout*** ***SUPERIOR Most Cox & Kings tours fall under this category and are based in 4- or 5-star accommodation where available, or the best alternative elsewhere*** ***STANDARD Simpler in emphasis, these itineraries typically feature 4-star or good 3-star accommodation throughout, or the best alternative elsewhere*** ***DISCOVERY Best suited to the hardier traveller, these tours typically include some quite basic accommodation, possibly longer and rougher road journeys and, in some cases, more strenuous activities, such as trekking***

  • Do I need inoculations?

    Many of our destinations have recommended health precautions, which you can read about in our regional documents and health pages. However, we recommend that you contact your doctor who will be able to give you professional advice, arrange any vaccinations and give advice on malaria protection. Alternatively, visit the NHS website for more information.

  • What happens if a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers? Will it be cancelled?

    If a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers, we will either offer for you to take your holiday on a private basis (which may involve a supplement), or you will be fully refunded.

Reviews of this Operator

Mark  

Very Good Experience

17-Apr-2022

This is the second trip we've booked with Cox & Kings and as with the first trip, the booking experience has been very good. We tried to do this trip in the autumn but were defeated by the ever-changing testing requirements. Cox & Kings quickly reconfirmed the itinerary when we revived the idea in the spring and kept us informed at every stage

Jessica  

Knowledgeable Staff and Excellent Service

01-Oct-2021

Knowledgeable staff and excellent service that 'goes the extra mile'. I have been on several holidays through Cox and Kings over the last 20 years and have always been more than satisfied

Haig  

Exceptional Service

02-Feb-2022

I have frequently used Cox and Kings and they never disappoint. They organise whatever I want and the great thing about their group tours is that they always include some free time. Other companies tend to pack far too much in to their schedules. I have found everyone I have ever dealt with keen to provide the best possible service.

Paul  

A Relaxed Way to Book a Holiday

13-Aug-2021

Sue and I have travelled with Cox & Kings a number of times and have always booked direct with them. For this latest trip, I again contacted them direct and spoke to their travel advisor for the chosen area for a tailor-made holiday. I found him empathetic, knowledgeable and understanding of my requirements. An initial itinerary was prepared which after due consideration and discussion was cheerfully amended and agreed on. There was no pressure put on me and I found it, as usual, a good experience. Holiday now booked and I am looking forward to the trip.

Susan  

Ultimate Professionals

27-Apr-2022

I've travelled with C&K before to Egypt and had a marvellous time so well looked after and wonderful hotel choices so I decided to book another trip for next year to Istanbul and Turkey now that we are able to travel. So looking forward to another adventure.

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Cox & Kings requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cox & kings charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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