For foreigners, India offers extraordinary landscapes whose images will remain etched forever. This gigantic, spectacular country will not leave you indifferent; all your senses will be at full capacity with an ancient, wide and spectacular land, full of people! It is sure that the memories from the country of hospitality, kindness, hope and pride, will remain in your mind and heart forever. India is a land where more than 1000 million people are divided and united by language, caste, religion and regional loyalties; the temples, tombs, forts, animals, colours, smiles, traditions and the great Taj Mahal will assure that you will live a great experience!
India is the country of spirituality and the adoption of the religions of Hinduism and Buddhism is widely spread. During this tour you will deeply feel the spirituality these religions and India is rich. Discover all the spiritual places India has to offer and experience the Hindu and Buddhist culture first hand! All the plans and the itineraries are flexible and can be easily modified according to your preferences
Important: Since it is a customized trip, the prices only give an approximate idea because they are based on seasons and promotions that are not available the whole year. Please contact us if you are willing to know the price on specific dates. If you want to travel on your own, we can also provide this tour individually, with an additional cost.
There are a limited number of licensed elephants in Amber Fort, and according to the current rules, an elephant cannot do more than 4 trails every morning and can only carry 2 passengers every time. Consequently, those willing to take the elephant ride must wake up early to arrive on time for queuing, since it is not possible to book an elephant ride. In case you cannot get an elephant on time, there are jeeps at your disposal.
Activities: NAMASTE! Arrive at the international airport of New Delhi. At the exit, you will be entitled to a traditional Indian welcome. First, as a foreigner, you will be hard to find your driver. Therefore, he will hold a sign with your name in the arrival hall. You will then be transferred to the hotel to do the Check-In. We are committed to providing any assistance during your stay and throughout your journey.
You will then have free time to rest. We suggest you go to see the Indian Gate in the evening. This famous memorial was built to commemorate the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died during the First World War and the Afghan War of 1919 and is located at the end of Rajpath. You cannot miss this huge arc of red sandstone measuring triumph over 48m high. The play of lights makes a visit to this site totally worth. Later return to the hotel to rest.
Overnight: Hotel in Delhi
Transport: International flight / Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: After breakfast, you will go visit the Birla Temple, which has been turned into the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. He used to stay here during his visits. Gandhi was killed here, on the way to his usual evening prayers.
Thereafter, you will visit the Lotus Temple also known as the “Temple Bahai” located in Kalkaji, south of Delhi. This architectural wonder is the newest and most extravagant. At the heart of the 27 petals of white marble, there is a large room especially composed texts of the Baha’i faith.
Then, you will see the beautiful Humayun Tomb, the fine monument believed to be the forerunner of Taj Mahal. Followed by visiting the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. This Sikh house of worship is widely known for its association with the eight Sikh Gurus and the holy pool inside the complex.
In the afternoon, you will head to India the highest minaret: Qutub Minar, 72.5 meters high and its base mosque. This magnificent structure, whose construction began in 1199 by the Muslim king Din Aiibak Outab (hence its name), and was completed by his heir IItutmish. Another mosque you’ll visit is one of the biggest in India and goes by name of Jama Masjid.
Finally, you will pass President House of Indian Parliament and the Secretariat building and the Red Fort for some photos. After a busy day, return to the hotel. Evening free to relax and rest
Overnight: Hotel in Delhi
Transport: Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: After breakfast, you will do the Check Out and head towards the airport for your flight towards Amritsar Upon your arrival you will be greeted by a representative of the company who will guide you to your hotel where you will do the check in.
We advise you to take a trip to Wagah, the border of Pakistan and India. Here you can attend a dance festival organised by the two countries. Don’t be scared by the military movements, since the tradition of demonstrating strength is an important one for both countries.
Overnight: Hotel in Amritsar
Transport: Domestic Flight & Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in The hotel
Activities: After breakfast, you will visit the Golden Temple, a symbol of the magnificence, equality and the humanity that the world contains. Besides being a fascinating monument, it is surrounded by pure, beautiful pools of water and large marble walls reflecting the light, offering an amazing scene. The temples’ fame is proportional to its beauty, which makes local and foreign tourists eager to visit this beautiful structure.
In the afternoon, visit Ram Bagh, a beautiful garden containing the palace of Maharana Ranjit Singh in the centre. Then, in the afternoon you will take the road towards your next destination: The beautiful and quiet hill town of McLeod Ganj. Where you will arrive late in the evening.
Ovenight: Hotel in McLeod Ganj
Transport:Private AC car
Where to eat:Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: After breakfast, you will have the time to enjoy McLeod Ganj. This small hill town is mainly composed of Tibetan bazaars and cafes where delicious Tibetan delicatessens are offered.
Then in the afternoon you will head towards the main city of the Kangra valley, Dharamshala. Here you will visit the temple and some monasteries devoted to the Dalai Lama.
In the evening you return to the hotel to rest.
Overnight:Hotel in McLeod Ganj
Transport:Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: After breakfast, you will do the check out and head towards Chandigarh. This modern town is famous for the remarkable speed it has been built at; it took the European architect less than 10 years to built it!
Upon your arrival in the afternoon, you will visit the Rock Garden; a garden of 12 hectares that is composed of nearly 1400 carved figures. Therefore it is considered the largest folk art environment in the world. Then you will return to your hotel for some rest.
Overnight: Hotel in Chandigarh
Transport: Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: After breakfast and the Check-Out you will head towards Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world. On route, you will make a stop in Haridwar, a village located on the banks of the Ganges. This town is an important place for Hindu pilgrims. Here, you will have time to visit various temples.
At night, you will witness a spectacular ceremony held at Har-ki-Pauri called ‘Aarti’. Har-ki-Pauri means Not God and is one of the most sacred Ghats. Then you will continue your journey to Rishikesh, which you will reach in 30 minutes.
Overnight: Hotel in Rishikesh
Transport: Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: After breakfast, you will head to the Ganges to do some rafting. The rough water of the Ganges makes this experience bit thrilling and exciting. Next, to this, the experience gains its popularity through its amazing scenery. Besides rafting, we also offer other adventurous options in Rishikesh such as canoeing, hiking, trailing, bungee jumping and cycling. In the afternoon you will have time to shop in neighbouring markets, followed by some moments of relaxation at the hotel.
One of the most spectacular things to do is attending the evening ceremonies of the Ganges named: Ganga Aarti. These ceremonies are performed simultaneously in all the temples, which makes the Ganges lit up by hundreds of floating lights. The spiritual feeling is unmatched and will stay with you far after your return at the hotel.
Overnight: Hotel in Rishikesh
Transport: Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: In the morning, after breakfast drive to your next destination, the City of Taj Mahal, Agra. Upon arrival in Agra, you will be checked in a Hotel.
Later visit the Red Fort, surrounded by a 26m wall, of Agra. After moving the capital to Agra, Sikandar Lodi was the first Sultan of Delhi to live in this fort in 1080.The Agra fort was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565. Evening free.
Furthermore, you can spend your time in the gardens of Mehtab for a unique view of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna river.
Overnight: Hotel in Agra
Transport: Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: Early morning you will visit the Taj Mahal, the most fascinating and magical masterpiece of India. The visit is much nicer in the morning because tourists are rare and you can quietly admire the first rays of sun on this glorious monument. You can also see the change in colour depending on the angle and position of the sun, which makes amazing photos. This experience is breath-taking.
By late morning, it will be time to take the road to Pushkar, a quiet town full of gentleness and tenderness It is home to temples, a sacred lake and great shopping bazaars that make you want to buy all its artisanal manufacturing, leather goods and other representative objects.
On the way, visit Fatehpur Sikri – the deserted red sandstone city built by Emperor Akbar in the sixteenth century. This capital of the great empire mysteriously abandoned 13 years later, but the building retains its charm.
When in the evening you arrive at Pushkar, you will have time to relax at the hotel and regain some energy for the next day.
Overnight: Hotel in Pushkar
Transport: Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: Ain the morning, after breakfast you will visit the Brahma temple, which is one of the few temples in India built for to honour the god of creation. Where after you have time to do visit the lake of Pushkar and do some shopping in the lovely streets of the town.
Then in the afternoon, you will take the car and head towards the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur. When you arrive at Jaipur, you will do the Check-In at the hotel and the rest of the day is free to explore the fabulous local markets and relax at the hotel.
* Optional (Entrance, Meals & Transport not included)
In the evening, we suggest a special meal at Choki Dhani, an ethnic restaurant where you can savour the flavour of Rajasthan kitchen enjoying folk dances. After this full-colour day, you return to the hotel to spend the night and rest.
Overnight: Hotel/Home in Jaipur
Transport: Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: This day will be entirely devoted to visiting Jaipur. First, Early morning, visit the in 1592 built Amber Fort. If you are sufficiently placed in the queue, you can climb the hill on an elephant its back, an amazing experience. Once on top, you walk in the vast complex through the corridors; many rooms are decorated with beautiful murals with precious stones and mirrors inlaid in the walls. Returning to the hotel, you can admire the first rays of sunlight touching the Jal Mahal palace that is located in the middle of a lake.
Later, you will drive to the centre commonly known as Pink City, to walk in the bazaars and stop at Hawa Mahal, the “Palace of Winds”, for some pictures.
Then in the afternoon, we visit the City Palace, where the royal family still lives in a part of the palace. This mixture of Mongol and Rajasthani architectural is very impressive. Next, to it, we can find Jantar Mantar, the ancient astronomical observatory built by Raja Jai Singh, whose passion for astronomy was more remarkable than his talent as a warrior.
Before this day of amazingly sightseeing comes to an end, you will visit the Birla Temple of Jaipur. A white Hindu temple, which looks stunning when lit by light.
By late afternoon, you will have the night free for leisure by your own. Then it will be time to go back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Overnight: Hotel/Home in Jaipur
Transport: Private AC car
Where to eat: Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: After breakfast, you will to the airport to take a flight to Varanasi. On arrival, a person of the company that will take you to your hotel will welcome you. After the Check In, you begin to explore Varanasi.
During the rest of the day, you will discover Varanasi and make an excursion to Sanarth. This village, just outside of Varanasi, was, roughly 2500 years ago, the birthplace of Buddhism. Here Buddha gave his first speech to his five disciples and nowadays you can still feel the spiritual atmosphere.
The evening before nightfall, you’ll return to Varanasi to attend the Aarti ceremony on the Ganges. After that you will take a boat ride on the Ganges to the Ganja Ghats (river port of entries) to discover the Indouiste ritual.
Overnight:Hotel in Varanassi
Transport:Domestic Flight & Private AC car
Where to eat:Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: Early morning you will enjoy a boat trip to admire a beautiful sunrise on the holy river. Afterwards an incredible scene containing a crowd of Hindus who come to pay homage to the sun god (Lord Shiva), can be seen. This view at dawn, from the middle of the river is a spiritually uplifting sight. The deep and mystical characteristics of the Hindu religion are constantly present.
Then, you will sail off to the sacred place where the local people burn the bodies of their dead relatives before pouring the ashes into the river. These special Ghats, where the cremation ceremony takes place, gave the name to their river.
Ending the morning, you will see hundreds of people take a dip in the holy water, wash their clothes, pray and meditate. After this morning full of spirituality, you will have the afternoon free to explore the rest of the city.
Next to being one of the holiest cities in India, Varanasi is also known as one of the most important places for pilgrimage. It has been known as the religious capital of Hinduism for ages. Located on the banks of the sacred Ganges, Varanasi has been a centre of learning and civilization for over 2000 years.
Then, before you will go to sleep, you will have time to relax at your hotel, or experience Varanassi and its culture a bit more.
Overnight:Hotel in Varanassi
Transport:Private AC car
Where to eat:Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: EAfter breakfast and the Check-Out from the Hotel, you will start the drive towards Bodhgaya, “The City of Lord Buddha´s Penance and Supreme Enlightenment.
In this city the traditional spiritual values can still be felt nowadays.
Once arrived, you will check-in at the hotel. In the afternoon, you will take a stroll alongside the river, in order to have a general understanding of the city.
Later visit the monastery of Sri Lankan and the Villa of Sujata, so-called because here a woman called Sujata gave some milk and rice to Lord Buddha during his trip.
Enjoy the city, and at the end of the day rest in the hotel
Overnight:Hotel in Bodhgaya
Transport:Private AC car
Where to eat:Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: In the early morning, before breakfast, you will visit the famous Mahabodhi Temple, famous for prayers and meditation near the Buddha tree. It was here that Buddha attained the total enlightenment. Afterwards, you will go back to the hotel to have breakfast and the, after the check-out, you will start your journey towards Patna.
On the way, visit Rajgir, which is a sacred place and with great significance for Buddhists. Gridhakuta Hill, at Rajgir, was the place where Buddha preached many sermons. It was in this place where Buddha’s writings were firstly remembered and written down.
You will also visit Nalanda, which literally means, the place where the lotus is offered. The lotus is a plant that represents the purity of body and soul according to Buddhist symbolism. It was one of the oldest universities in the world and a centre of great learning that reached its maximum splendour between the 5th and 12th century. You will visit quickly Karanda Tank – where Buddha used to bathe, then you will continue your drive towards Patna.
Once arrived in Patna, you will do the Check-In and take a deserved rest.
Overnight:Hotel in Patna
Transport:Private AC car
Where to eat:Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: After breakfast and the Check-Out from the hotel, you will drive towards Vaishali, which claim to have been the first republic of the world with a body of elected representatives, with special meanings for the devotees of Buddhism. Here Buddha preached his last speech before dying in 483.
Later on, you will continue your journey heading towards Kushinagar – where Buddha reached Mahaparinirvana (final nirvana after the death of the body). His tomb is still there. Kushinagar is one of the main centres of Buddhist pilgrimage.
You will then spend the night at the hotel in Kushinagar
Overnight:Hotel in Kushinagar
Transport:Private AC car
Where to eat:Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: After breakfast, have a morning tour through Kushinagar. Go for a walk to Rambahar Stupa and to the Mahaparinirvana temple, where you will see the Buddha statue in a reclining posture. After these visits you will be heading towards the direction of Lumbini – The birthplace of Gautama Buddha, founder of Buddhism. Lumbini is located on the border between India and Nepal. Even though in order to enter Lumbini, all the legal formalities must be completed, it is a place worth visiting. After the visit of this town, you will go back to Kushinagar, where you will spend the night.
Overnight:Hotel in Kushinagar
Transport:Private AC car
Where to eat:Breakfast in the hotel
Activities: After breakfast, you will start heading towards Shravasti. On the way, you will stop and visit Kapilvastu – the capital of the Sakya clan and one of the first republics. This village is also one of the most meaningful places for Buddhists since it was where Buddha spent his childhood. Gautama Buddha was a prince (Siddharth) of this city, but although he was living in luxury, here he felt sadness, pain and death. Later you will continue your journey to Shravasti, another holy city where Buddha passed the “Baisakh” of his life and his sermons.
Once you arrive, you will Check-In at the hotel and you will be able to visit the extensive ruins of the old city. Shravasti is composed by the two villages of Sahet and Mahet. This is the place where Buddha, sitting in a lotus flower, performed the famous miracle of multiplying the petals by a thousand.
In the evening you will return to the hotel and rest.
Overnight:Hotel in Shravasti
Transport:Private AC car
END OF OUR SERVICES
After breakfast, you will check out from the Hotel and drive to Lucknow. When you arrive in Lucknow, you will be transferred to the airport to take a flight with the destination of Delhi. Then it will be time to take your respective flight back home.
We hope you have enjoyed this incredible country and that you’ll have good memories of this trip for the rest of your life. You came to our country as a visitor and you will go back to your country as our dear friend. It will always be our pleasure to have you in our Incredible India!! Thank you for choosing us.
NAMASTE!
OneWorldHolidayz
In India there is no official classification for hotels, so this is why in this section we will try to explain you our opinion on them. We classify the hotels in the following categories:
3* Hotels: Basic but good hotels. This is our cheapest option. Each room has its own washroom. This option is similar to the 1 or 2 stars’ hotel in Europe.
4* Hotels: This is the recommended option for those who do not want to face any bad surprises and that would like to stay in a hotel which offers sufficient services and moderate luxury. This option is the equivalent to the 3* hotels in Europe.
5* Hotels: According to the European classification of hotels, these ones would correspond to the 4* hotels. We find these hotels very good for both the location and the quality/price ratio. These type of accommodation guarantee services and facilities more than appropriate.
Palace Hotels: Chains such as Taj (not available in all the cities) or Oberoi are the best examples belonging to this category. It entails a consistent economic difference compared to the 5* Hotels and in some cases they are situated quite far from the city-centres.
Nevertheless, if Luxury and Excellent Services is what you are looking for, these Hotels will definitely assure you comfort and Asian elegance.
Heritage: Belonging to this category are the hotels that will give you the experience of the real India. These hotels are decorated in a traditional Indian style. They exist in any kind of luxury and price range, for which you will generally pay more for the experience rather than the facilities and the services.
The heritage hotels can be divided into two categories: one more affordable and one more luxurious. The first type corresponds to the 4* hotels and the second one is closer to the palaces concerning the price and luxury.
Triple rooms in India are practically nonexistent. These type of rooms are the same size as the double ones with an extra bed. Hotels will not provide you any reduction or discount, so in some cases we recommend booking a double room plus one single room. Also, in some chains of hotels, mainly the 5 * and the Luxury ones do not have triple rooms.