11-Nights Independent Spirit Of India - Independent Tour from $3,969

Globus

OFFER ID 1488419

Eclectic temples and imposing forts. Pristine wildlife refuges and lively metropolises. Pink cities and golden triangles. Fairytale monuments and tantalizing cuisine. There’s no better introduction to India than this incredible Independence by Globus journey. Tour bustling Mumbai, witness its tiffin lunch box delivery system, and visit the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. You’ll also explore the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, travel to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities, to witness the striking Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River. In the capital city of Delhi, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the famed Chandni Chowk bazaar-a market that’s been around for more than three centuries. Spend time here shopping for exotic spices, gold, fabrics, and a host of trinkets and souvenirs. You’ll also visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, the largest Sikh house of worship in Delhi; and explores the lavish, 16th-century garden-tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun (a precursor to the Taj Mahal). Southeast in Agra, be sure your cameras fully charged for your private guided sightseeing tour that begins with a truly unforgettable sunrise visit to the incomparable Taj Mahal. Then, visit the ancient red sandstone Agra Fort, which guarded the imperial city of the Moghul rulers. In the "Pink City" of Jaipur, your private sightseeing takes you to the amazing Amber Fort with the glittering walls and ceilings in the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), the City Palace, and the fascinating bigger-than-life Jantar Mantar astronomical observatories. Enjoy the I-time you crave with free time and optional excursions to experience this fascinating destination in your own way.


11 nights from $3,969 per person

Itinerary

Independent Spirit Of India

Day 1 ARRIVE IN MUMBAI, INDIA

Welcome to India! Your hotel is available for mid-afternoon check-in.

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Day 2 MUMBAI

• Your private guided sightseeing starts with an orientation for photos? at some of the city’s famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India.
• Witness Mumbai’s fascinating tiffen lunch box delivery system. At Churchgate Station, the dabbawalas (box carriers) transfer the lunch boxes onto a wooden cart on a local train. Board the train for the short ride to Mahalaxmi Station where you’ll disembark and watch the boxes being sorted by color for final delivery.
• Visit a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi.

(B,L)

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Day 3 MUMBAI–VARANASI

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

(B)

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Day 4 VARANASI

• Near dawn, board a boat and watch a moving religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. Observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, practicing yoga, meditating, take a ritual dip and offer flowers to the river. Return to your hotel for breakfast and leisure time.
• In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading to the sacred Ganges River.

(B)

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Day 5 VARANASI–DELHI

• Today, fly to Delhi, India’s capital city.

(B)

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Day 6 DELHI

• Your private guided sightseeing tour starts with a drive to see the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace.
• Take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar. Ancient alleyways are lined with quaint shops selling goods and souvenirs—from silver and saris to spices and electronics.

(B,L)

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Day 7 DELHI–AGRA

• This morning, explore Delhi on a private guided tour. Start at Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret constructed in the early 13th Century.
• Visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Delhi’s largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship).
• After lunch, drive to Agra, a city where much of the city’s impressive past is still evident in the majesty of her buildings.

(B,L)

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Day 8 AGRA

• Meet your Local Guide for a special visit to the captivating Taj Mahal at sunrise. This extravagant marble monument was built by Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth.
• In the afternoon, a private guided tour brings you to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Moghul Emperor Akbar, this impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces.

(B)

Today's I-Time Tips
Explore more on your own or join an optional excursion to Itmad-ud-Daula, the city’s beautiful “Baby Taj.”


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Day 9 AGRA–JAIPUR

• Today, drive to Jaipur, often referred to as the “Pink City.”
• After lunch, visit Jantar Mantar and explore the City Palace Museum with its collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes.
• Lastly, visit Ladli, a training program teaching orphaned and destitute children valuable skills to keep them off the streets. Here learn about the project, interact with the children, and help them practice their English skills.

(B,L)

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Day 10 JAIPUR

• Visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the “Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan.” This fortress-palace was built entirely of white marble and red sandstone, and features intricate mosaics, carvings, paintings, and mirror works.

(B)

Today's I-Time Tips
Join a guide for a walking tour through old Jaipur.


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Day 11 JAIPUR–DELHI

• Today, drive back to Delhi.

(B)

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Day 12 DELHI

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

(B)

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Featured Destinations
Jaipur
Agra
Delhi (New Delhi)
Varanasi
Mumbai

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges
12/31/2024 - 01/11/2025
from $3,969 per person


* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
Prices Start At
from $3,969 per person
Length
11 Nights
Air City
Call for airfares from your city.
Vacation Rating
Deluxe
Fine dining, on-site bars or lounges and room service with extended hours are characteristic of deluxe establishments. Guest services usually include valet parking, concierge services, baggage assistance and laundry services. Other on-site facilities often include shops and boutiques, full service spas, full fitness facilities with pools and tennis courts. Business amenities may include available up-to-date technology and support staffs available for services. Attention to detail is apparent in the guestrooms which typically have stylish furnishings, quality bedding and bath products and often provide an evening turn down service.
Remarks

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID
1488419

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San Marin Travel

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Chino Valley, AZ 86323
USA

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800-488-5040