Grand Tour of India

Tour Highlights

Delhi

Varanasi

Agra

Kerala

Delhi

Discover architectural masterpieces in Delhi, Old and New

Varanasi

Take a cruise on India’s holiest river, the Ganges

Agra

Watch a spectacular sunrise over India's most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal

Kerala

Relax as you cruise through the stillness of these tranquil backwaters

Authentic Experiences

Our Grand Tour of India Tour has been thoughtfully designed and thoroughly researched to bring you a range of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, many of which are entirely exclusive to us.

• Kathkali Dance Performance

  Witness an exuberant performance of the traditional dance-drama that is Kathakali. Kerala's best-known performing art, it is an extravagant retelling of Hindu epics complete with colourful costumes and elaborate make up.

• Thar Desert Camel Tour

  Embark on a camel cart ride out into the starkly beautiful landscapes of the Thar Desert – though it may appear barren, you’ll find the desert is surprisingly full of things to see.

• Ajanta and Ellora Caves

  Surprisingly little known outside of India, discover the magnificent artistic treasures of the Ajanta and Ellora caves, a series of caverns full of intricate frescoes and carvings created by Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monks

Tour Dates & Prices

All of our tour departures include international flights and taxes in the price. If the dates we have available for this tour don't suit your needs, or you are not sure travelling as part of a group is for you, maybe a Private Tour would be more ideal. If your tour departs in less than 30 days, please call our travel experts to book.

Our Price Match Promise

Find a tour with the same inclusion cheaper and we will match it AND give you a reward. We will match the price of any Wendy Wu Tour quoted elsewhere. The price of your tour will never rise after you've paid. See full terms and conditions.

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Additional Price Information

Based on London Heathrow departures

Flight upgrades available on request

Land only from ￡5190 (Delhi - Trivandrum)

Single room from ￡1190

Tipping paid locally USD$180

Price listed is based on new bookings only

Grand Tour of India - Tour Itinerary

Days 1-2: Fly to Delhi

Fly overnight to Delhi. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours at leisure.

Days 3: Explore Delhi

Explore Old Delhi; see the Red Fort and walk to Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. After lunch, view India Gate and Parliament House before exploring Gandhi Smriti and Qutub Minar.

Days 4-5: Discover Varanasi

Fly to the ancient city of Varanasi. Head just out of town to the fascinating Buddhist site of Sarnath, where Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon. The next day, rise early to cruise on the Ganges and explore the city. Later take a rickshaw to the ghats and witness a puja ceremony.

Day 6: Explore Khajuraho's Temples

Transfer to the airport to fly to Khajuraho to see the exquisite temples and their intricately carved, erotic imagery. This evening enjoy a cultural dance display

Day 7: Train to Agra

Travel to the 16th-century city of Orchha and then on to Jhansi where you’ll board a Shatabdi Express train to Agra.

Day 8: The Taj Mahal

Watch the sun rise over the Taj Mahal which is often swathed in mist and tinged pink – a magical experience. This afternoon visit a marble inlay workshop and the colossal 16th-century Agra Fort.

Days 9-10: Ranthambore

Visit the ghost city of Fatephur Sikri on the way to Ranthambore National Park, home to many animals such as leopards, hyena, bears and tigers. The next day enjoy both an early morning and afternoon safari.

Day 11-12: Jaipur

Journey to the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur for a two-night stay. Visit the Maharaja's City Palace and Jantar Mantar Observatory on the day you arrive. The following day, make a brief stop at the Hawa Mahal - the ‘Palace of the Winds’- before admiring the majestic Amber Fort.

Day 13-14: Pushkar and Khimsar

Travel to Pushkar, a sacred pilgrimage destination for Hindus. This afternoon visit its sacred lake, ghats and the Temple of Lord Brahma followed by a camel cart ride in the desert. The next day visit Khimsar, perched on the edge on the great Thar Desert. Stay overnight at a 15th Century fortress - now a heritage hotel.

Days 15-16: Discover Jaisalmer

Rising from the sandy plains of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is known as the ‘Golden City’. Head to Sunset Point to enjoy the views. The next day head to the magnificent Jaisalmer fort, Badal Vilas Palace and the extravagant Patwon Ki Haveli mansion. Round off the day with a memorable visit to the Sam Sand Dunes in the Thar Desert.

Days 17-18: Jodhpur and surrounds

Travel to Jodhpur and tour the city, exploring the magnificence of Mehrangarh Fort, visiting the museum of Umaid Bhawan Palace and the spice market. The next day drive through the desert by jeep to Bishnoi village.

Days 19-20: Romantic Udaipur

Drive to Udaipur via the Jain temple complex of Ranakpur and Surya Temple as well as other Jain Temples. The next day explore the city, driving around Fateh Sagar Lake with stops at the Folk Museum, Mewar Art Gallery and Sahelion Ki Bari Garden. Later visit the ornate City Palace and take a cruise on the shimmering Lake Pichola.

Days 21: Aurangabad

This morning you will fly to Aurangabad, where you will spend the next 2 nights.

Day 22-23: Ajanta & Ellora Caves

Visit the incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ajanta and Ellora Caves and discover the beautiful murals and exquisite carvings of Buddhist, Hindu and Jain imagery. Fly to Mumbai.

Days 24: Discover Mumbai

Tour cosmopolitan Mumbai, India’s economic powerhouse. View the Gateway to India, wander along Marine Drive and visit Chowpatty Beach, Mani Bhavan, Dhobi Ghat, Crawford Market and Flora Fountain. Transfer to the airport this evening for your flight to the relaxing Keralan city of Kochi.

Day 25: Explore Kochi

Fascinating Kochi is strung across the islands and peninsulas of the Malabar coast. Visit the Dutch Palace and Fort Kochi before seeing the famous Chinese fishing nets and strolling through colourful markets. This evening enjoy an exuberant Kathakali dance performance.

Day 26: Kerala's Backwaters

Visit Kochi’s synagogue, before heading out of the city to Nedumudy to board your houseboat. On this converted rice barge or ‘kettuvallam’ you will drift along the peaceful backwaters. Lunch and dinner are served onboard and you will stay overnight here too.

Day 27: Travel to Kovalam

Enjoy breakfast as you cruise into Alleppey, then travel to the beach resort of Kovalam.

Day 28: Visit Trivandrum

Explore Kerala’s capital Trivandrum, with visits to Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the Zoological Gardens, Sri Chitra Art Gallery, the Observatory and Kanakakunnu Palace. Return to Kovalam for your final night stay.

Day 29: Fly from Trivandrum to UK

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

Weather Information

Useful Information

Visas

A visa is required by all nationalities. A single entry visa should be arranged in advance of travel. Unlike many other tour operators, we include your entry visas in the price of our tour. We handle the entire visa process – all you need to do is fill out the form and send your passport to us. We are always on hand to help you with any questions or queries you might have when completing the form.

Food

The cost of all meals is included in your group tour cost. Breakfast is served in the hotel and usually includes western dishes. We aim to cater to the tastes of the majority of people and so the food is not too spicy or unusual in taste. Any food/diet requests MUST be specified at the time of booking and you should mention it again to the National Escort/ Local Guides when you meet them – they will do their utmost to cater for any special requests, such as vegetarian meals or food to be avoided in case of allergies.

Tipping

Tipping is an expected element in the tourism industry today and India is no exception. We have established a tipping system whereby every passenger gives a set amount to the National Escort who will distribute the amount appropriately. On multi-country tips, this amount will be paid in stages on arrival in each country. If there is no National Escort, you will need to give your money to your Local Guides and tipping amounts for each city will be shown in your final itinerary. The amount is calculated for each tour. We will indicate the tipping amounts in your final documents for guidance.

Communication

To call the UK the international access code is 0044 then the number. To call Wendy Wu Tours it is 00 44 207 403 7860. Emergency 24 hour telephone (out of office hours) is 00 44 7984 041 625. Mobile Phones Mobile phones are growing in popularity and you will find high quality coverage. We recommend that you contact your mobile supplier if you intend to use international roaming during your holiday and ensure you investigate all associated costs before you leave the UK.Some hotels may have Wi-Fi which usually comes at an additional cost.

Shopping

Shopping can be a fun and entertaining component to any travel adventure. In keeping with most people’s interests whilst on holiday, your tour will include a reasonable number of opportunities to shop for local goods and souvenirs. We have included visits to establishments that not only provide an opportunity to purchase a locally produced, but you’ll witness first-hand how these local products are made, their history and how they support the economy. We are aware that people like to take home souvenirs, so we ensure the shops you visit have a reputation for quality, honesty, and authenticity.

Sample Tour Hotels

We draw from a wide range of hotels on our holidays, each one is chosen to suit the tour you are travelling on meaning your accommodation can range from a smart business hotel in one city to a family run guesthouse in a smaller town. Here are some examples of the type of hotel you can expect to find on this tour.

• The Royal Plaza

  Well-placed in the sightseeing, shopping, and culture area of New Delhi and NCR city, Hotel The Royal Plaza provides access to the city's biggest attractions including; The National Philatelic Museum, Parliament Building, and Jantar Mantar Astronomical Observatory. The hotel has luxurious en-suite rooms, and also features a fitness centre, sauna, outdoor pool, and spa where guests can relax and unwind after a busy day.

• Desert Tulip

  Featuring traditional Rajasthan décor, Desert Tulip Hotel & Resort is located minutes away from the Jaisalmer Fort. All en-suite rooms feature modern amenities including, cable television, a personal safe and tea/coffee-making facilities. The hotel’s restaurant serves traditional Rajasthani Cuisine and a selection of buffet dishes. There is also a spa and games room.

• The Fern Hotel

  Located in Jodhpur, The Fern Residency is an upscale business hotel with 50 high-end en-suite rooms, all featuring a flat-screen TV, air conditioning and a seating area. Dining options include Ocean Restaurant serving delicious Indian and International cuisines. Other facilities include an outdoor terrace and sauna.

• Hilltop Palace

  Hotel Hilltop Palace is situated atop Ambavgarh Hill, overlooking Lake Fatehsagar and the historic Udaipur Town. The hotel offers 62 tasteful rooms with modern amenities, including air-conditioning, a safety deposit box and television. The hotel boasts an on-site restaurant serving Northern Indian cuisine, as well as Rajasthani Folk dances arranged on request.

• Ambassador Ajanta

  Ambassador Ajanta is located in the heart of the city centre in a unique location with more than 13 acres of lush greenery right in the middle of the business district. The 92 en-suite rooms offer an intimate, full-service experience, with amenities including; access to Wi-Fi and a safety deposit box. The hotel’s onsite restaurant also offers delicious Indian, Chinese and European dishes.

• The Ambassador

  Located along the seafront at Marine Drive, in the heart of South Mumbai's famous Queens Necklace, The Ambassador boasts 112 air-conditioned excellently appointed en-suite rooms, each equipped with CCTV, channel music, a refrigerator and other amenities. Other facilities include a restaurant, BBQ facilities and a shop.

• Uday Samudra Beach Resort

  Located by the famed beaches of Kovalam, 15 metres from the sea, Uday Samudra Beach Resort is an exclusive 5 Star leisure beach hotel - a destination by itself. The hotel boasts luxurious air-conditioned en-suite rooms with modern amenities and the restaurant serves a variety of delicious Chinese, continental and local dishes. Live cultural programmes also can be enjoyed during dinner time.

• Four Points by Sheraton Jaipur

  Located on the edge of Jaipur’s centre, the Four Points by Sheraton is a bright modern hotel with an excellent range of facilities. As well as a large outdoor pool, there is also a fitness centre and spa to help you relax. The hotel restaurant serves both local and Western dishes buffet style whilst there is also a bar for a few refreshing beverages. Rooms are simple and comfortable and boast flat screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, floor to ceiling windows with city or Aravali Hills views, en suite bathroom with shower, minibar, tea and coffee making facilities and safety deposit box.

• Ramada, Khajuraho

  This modern hotel is just 5 minutes from the airport. Relax around the swimming pool after a day exploring the temples, try out the gym or have a treatment in the spa. In the evening try out one of the two restaurants, both of which serve both local and international cuisine, before heading to the bar for a nightcap. There is also an inhouse disco. The contemporary style rooms have marble floors and air-conditioning as well as television, safe, minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. The en suite bathroom has either a bath or shower.

• Tiger Den Ranthambore

  A five-minute drive from the national park entrance, this hotel is sat in lovely landscaped gardens and boasts beautiful views. Inspired by nature, it is perfectly located to savour the peace and tranquillity of rural India. There is a restaurant, pool, library, a spa offering Ayurveda treatments and lounge area, whilst a nightly campfire is great for socialising and naturalist talks for learning about the local flora and fauna. Accommodation are spacious with lovely, colourful accents and have air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, fridge, sitting are and en suite shower room.

• Casino Hotel Kochi

  Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Fort Cochin, the Casino Hotel combines relaxed Keralan style with modern comforts. There is an outdoor pool, gym, lounge and shop, whilst the restaurants serve Indian, Chinese and continental cuisine and specialise in fresh fish dishes. There is also free Wi-Fi and an Ayurveda massage service. Bedrooms are bright and spacious with typically Keralan aspects and offer air conditioning, safe, minibar, television and en suite bathroom.