The Soul of India
Description
Activities: Rickshaw ride, cultural excursions, jungle safari
Who is it for?
Avid explorers who want a profound in-destination experience.
What is it?
Rickshaw rides through the bazars of Old Delhi, excursions into 15th century palaces, jungles safaris on the lookout for the elusive Royal Bengal tiger, and trips into weavers’ workshops flavour this 15-day experience delving into a destination thousands of years in the making. From rock clusters left by prehistoric civilizations, to the Qutab – erected by the first Islamic rulers in India, the tower was the tallest in the world for centuries – and a night in one of the most populous urban regions in the world in Mumbai, this itinerary is designed to take you into the deep depths of enduring India.
Highlights: Rickshaw ride through bazaars of Old Delhi, Ahilya Fort, excursion to Mandu (15th century city of palaces, tombs, monuments and mosques), visit World Heritage Site of Bhimbetka rock shelters, jungle safari to spot the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger,
Season: All year, best time November to March
Included/Excluded
Tour Amenities
Tour Duration
Duration
Starting Price
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Contact Us for pricing
Travel Style
Tour Type
Day by Day Itinerary
You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Delhi was initially a ruling ground of the Mughal Empire. In 1803 AD Delhi became a dominion of the British Kingdom and in 1911 the city was acknowledged as the capital of India. The city is located on the banks of Yamuna River which makes its crop lands fertile. Being on the northern part of India Delhi comprises of plain areas. There are several tourist attractions in the city without which Delhi is not complete. From Red fort, Lotus Temple and Chandni Chowk to Modern art Gallery, Purana Quila and many more, Delhi boasts of an infinite range of touristy places. The Delhi Metro is another remarkable achievement of the city in the recent years. While going through the information about Delhi one can come across hordes of unique features associated with this ancient city of India.
Tonight nothing is planned as you will arrive by late evening / night.
Overnight at the Hotel Imperial.
You begin your guided city tour with a visit to the colossal Red fort followed by Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk as well as a cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of the bazaars.
Drive through New Delhi roads & sights to get a feel for the grand new city that Sir Lutyens built in the early 1900s. You will also visit the Humayun’s Tomb & the magnificent Qutab Minar.
Humayun’s tomb: The tomb was commissioned by Emperor Humayun’s wife Hamida Banu Begum in 1562 and designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian architect. It was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. Close to the Dina-panah citadel is the Purana Qila that Humayun founded in 1533. It was also the first structure to use red sandstone at such a scale. The tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993.
The 12th c. Sultanate period outstanding Qutab Minar complex: The Qutab was the tallest tower in world for centuries, erected by first Islamic rulers of India; still the most imposing, artistically carved & engraved sandstone pillar anywhere! 4th c. inscription on renowned rust-free ancient Iron Pillar on premises adds to mystique & allure of unique monument. The Qutab Minar towers over this historic area where Qutabuddin Aibak laid the foundation of Delhi Sultanate in 1193. He built the Quwwatul Islam Mosque and the Qutab Minar to announce the advent of Muslim sultans. Later Iltutmish, Alauddin Khilji and Ferozshah Tughlaq added other buildings bringing in new architectural style.
Overnight at the Hotel Imperial.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transfer to domestic airport to board morning flight to Indore.
On arrival, you will be met at the airport followed by a short drive to Maheshwar town and check into the exquisite Ahilya Fort.
After lunch, you will visit the workshops of the weavers making the famous Maheshwari saris and other textiles, you’re sure to find something to take back home with you.
You will be served a gourmet dinner at the palace tonight, and you have the evening to explore the fort.
Overnight at the Ahilya Fort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
Today you will visit the town of Maheshwar, starting with the statue of Rani Ahilyabai seated on the throne in the Rajgaddi within the fort complex. Other rooms in the fort are open for public viewing, too, and you can see other heirlooms and relics of the Holkar royal family. Ahilya Fort and the town of Maheshwar itself house several multi-tiered temples that are worth visiting.
Afternoon at leisure.
At sunset you will go on a boat ride along the Narmada to get a different view of this unique town, and dinner will be back at the palace.
Overnight at Ahilya Fort.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast at the Fort, drive 65 kms (1 ½ Hours) to Mandu, a 15th century city with marvels of early Islamic architecture.
Enjoy a picnic lunch near the old gates to Mandu, the Tarapur Darwaza.
Mandu or the ‘City of Joy’ embodies the love of the poet Prince Baz Bahadur for his consort Rani Roopmati. The Balladeers of the region still sing about their love. Each structure in Mandu is an architectural gem.
After a day filled with romance, weave your way back to the fort.
Overnight at Ahilya Fort.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day at leisure to soak in the magical tranquillity.
Overnight at Ahilya Fort
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Bhopal is said to have been founded by King Bhoja of the Paramara Dynasty. The capital city of Madhya Pradesh state is known as the city of lakes. It is home to a number of famous mosques and temples, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Kalighat, Taj-ul-Masajid, both Diwali and Eid are celebrated with gusto in this city.Paan eating is rampant here, and can be found in various combinations and flavours, and local food is relatively milder and has a unique taste. Popular snacks and street-food can be easily found around town.
You will arrive at Bhopal late In the afternoon and check into the Jehan Numa Palace.
The rest of your evening is at leisure.
Overnight at the Jehan Numa Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, leave for your next destination – Satpura National Park. You’ll break your journey on the way to stop and visit the Bhimbhetka Rock Shelters.
Bhimbhetka Rock Shelters: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is situated on the southern edge of the Central Plateau at the foothills of the Vindhyan Mountains. These five clusters of rock shelters that analysts suggest date back to the Mesolithic era. These shelters are also suspected to have been the home of primates like the homo erectus, and greatly resemble those found in Australia, and is another link between the Gond Tribal and the Australian Aboriginal Tribal.
Satpura National Park covers 1500 sq. km of a unique Central Plateau Highland ecosystem, with rugged terrain, valleys, rivulets, waterfalls and narrow gorges. The park is rich in biodiversity, and is the abode of numerous species of flora and fauna. The area’s stunning topography, coupled with the abundance of wildlife it contains caters to a variety of interests and a combination of ways to explore them.
Overnight at the Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
You’ll be served breakfast on your return to the lodge.Note – According to the new Forest regulation by the State Government, which has come into effect from the 1st of April 2011, all National parks in the state of Madhya Pradesh, will remain closed on Wednesday afternoons. Hence you will not be able to do the jungle safari on Wednesday afternoons. The lodge will, in turn organise a village walk in the late afternoon or bird-watching option.
This evening you will be accompanied by a resident naturalist on a boat safari through the Park. You will cruise down the Denwa River into the mammoth Tawa dam, a haven for birdlife and the home of the Indian Fresh Water Crocodile. Otherwise, you can travel upstream to the Son Bhadra nallah that gives to a spectacular view of the river valley.
Overnight at the Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Early this morning you will be taken on a jeep safari to another section of the park. Again you will have a guide who can explain the indigenous flora and fauna.
You’ll be served breakfast on your return to the lodge
After lunch, you will go on a nature walk into the park where you can spot birds, butterflies and other fickle creatures, as well as get a closer look at the native fauna.
Overnight at the Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast, drive to Pench National Park with packed lunch.
Pench National Park is lesser know but a most conveniently located Tiger habitat. Only 3-4 hours driving distance from the well connected Nagpur airport. Panoramic beauty of this region that has been described as early as the beginning of the 20th century by naturalists like Captain J. Forsyth in ‘Highlands of Central India’ and by Rudyard Kipling in the ‘Jungle Book’. Park takes its name from the Pench River. The river meanders its way through the entire stretch of the 757 sq.km park. The river runs from north to south, dividing the park into almost equal western and eastern halves – the well forested areas of Chhindwara and Seoni districts respectively. Kala Pahar, the park’s highest hill, reaches 650 m above sea level.
The Park has mainly Southern tropical dry deciduous and dry mixed deciduous forest dominated by teak trees. During the dry season the river ceases to flow, forming pools which provide the primary watering holes for Tigers and its prey. On the southern boundary of the park the river is dammed and around its banks are hordes of water-birds. Mugger Indian Marsh crocodile, Indian Flap Shell Turtle and Peninsular Black Turtle can also been seen. Almost all the animals seen in Kanha NP, except barasingha are in habitants of Pench like Gaur, Wild Boar and Common Langurs, Sambar, Spotted and Barking Deer. With luckyou might also see sloth bear, Dhole (wild dog), or even a Leopard which are generally seen in the peripheral areas of the park where they can more easily avoid tigers. Brilliant birdlife of over 170 species has been recorded here.
On arrival, check Into your hotel
Overnight at Baghvan Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Morning and afternoon jeep safaris into the park with a guide.
Overnight at Baghvan Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Morning and afternoon jeep safaris into the park with a guide.
Overnight at Baghvan Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast, drive to Nagpur airport to board flight to Mumbai with packed lunch.
Commonly known as ‘Bombay’ until 1996, Mumbai is the commercial capital of India. Its original name “Bombay” emerged from the Portugal term “Bom Bahai” meaning good bay or harbour. The city was formed by the reclamation of 7 islands on the central-western coast along the Arabian Sea. Mumbai lies 1400 km west of the Indian capital, New Delhi.
It is also known as Manchester of India. Mumbai boomed into news as a textile city in the 19th Century. With the opening up of the Suez Canal in 1869 the city’s future as India’s primary port, was assured. Now it is the second biggest city in the world. The glamour of a prolific film industry, cricket on the open areas on weekends, bhel puri (Indian snack) on the Chowpatty beach and red double-decker buses symbolizes the spirit of the city.
On arrival, transfer to a hotel near the airport for the night.
Remainder of the day at leisure.
Overnight at The Leela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Check In for International flight starts 3 hours prior to departure.
Explore Tours
Activities: Rickshaw ride, cultural excursions, jungle safari
Who is it for?
Avid explorers who want a profound in-destination experience.
What is it?
Rickshaw rides through the bazars of Old Delhi, excursions into 15th century palaces, jungles safaris on the lookout for the elusive Royal Bengal tiger, and trips into weavers’ workshops flavour this 15-day experience delving into a destination thousands of years in the making. From rock clusters left by prehistoric civilizations, to the Qutab – erected by the first Islamic rulers in India, the tower was the tallest in the world for centuries – and a night in one of the most populous urban regions in the world in Mumbai, this itinerary is designed to take you into the deep depths of enduring India.
Highlights: Rickshaw ride through bazaars of Old Delhi, Ahilya Fort, excursion to Mandu (15th century city of palaces, tombs, monuments and mosques), visit World Heritage Site of Bhimbetka rock shelters, jungle safari to spot the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger,
Season: All year, best time November to March
Included/Exclude
Tour Amenities
Tour Plan
You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Delhi was initially a ruling ground of the Mughal Empire. In 1803 AD Delhi became a dominion of the British Kingdom and in 1911 the city was acknowledged as the capital of India. The city is located on the banks of Yamuna River which makes its crop lands fertile. Being on the northern part of India Delhi comprises of plain areas. There are several tourist attractions in the city without which Delhi is not complete. From Red fort, Lotus Temple and Chandni Chowk to Modern art Gallery, Purana Quila and many more, Delhi boasts of an infinite range of touristy places. The Delhi Metro is another remarkable achievement of the city in the recent years. While going through the information about Delhi one can come across hordes of unique features associated with this ancient city of India.
Tonight nothing is planned as you will arrive by late evening / night.
Overnight at the Hotel Imperial.
You begin your guided city tour with a visit to the colossal Red fort followed by Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk as well as a cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of the bazaars.
Drive through New Delhi roads & sights to get a feel for the grand new city that Sir Lutyens built in the early 1900s. You will also visit the Humayun’s Tomb & the magnificent Qutab Minar.
Humayun’s tomb: The tomb was commissioned by Emperor Humayun’s wife Hamida Banu Begum in 1562 and designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian architect. It was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. Close to the Dina-panah citadel is the Purana Qila that Humayun founded in 1533. It was also the first structure to use red sandstone at such a scale. The tomb was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993.
The 12th c. Sultanate period outstanding Qutab Minar complex: The Qutab was the tallest tower in world for centuries, erected by first Islamic rulers of India; still the most imposing, artistically carved & engraved sandstone pillar anywhere! 4th c. inscription on renowned rust-free ancient Iron Pillar on premises adds to mystique & allure of unique monument. The Qutab Minar towers over this historic area where Qutabuddin Aibak laid the foundation of Delhi Sultanate in 1193. He built the Quwwatul Islam Mosque and the Qutab Minar to announce the advent of Muslim sultans. Later Iltutmish, Alauddin Khilji and Ferozshah Tughlaq added other buildings bringing in new architectural style.
Overnight at the Hotel Imperial.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transfer to domestic airport to board morning flight to Indore.
On arrival, you will be met at the airport followed by a short drive to Maheshwar town and check into the exquisite Ahilya Fort.
After lunch, you will visit the workshops of the weavers making the famous Maheshwari saris and other textiles, you’re sure to find something to take back home with you.
You will be served a gourmet dinner at the palace tonight, and you have the evening to explore the fort.
Overnight at the Ahilya Fort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
Today you will visit the town of Maheshwar, starting with the statue of Rani Ahilyabai seated on the throne in the Rajgaddi within the fort complex. Other rooms in the fort are open for public viewing, too, and you can see other heirlooms and relics of the Holkar royal family. Ahilya Fort and the town of Maheshwar itself house several multi-tiered temples that are worth visiting.
Afternoon at leisure.
At sunset you will go on a boat ride along the Narmada to get a different view of this unique town, and dinner will be back at the palace.
Overnight at Ahilya Fort.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast at the Fort, drive 65 kms (1 ½ Hours) to Mandu, a 15th century city with marvels of early Islamic architecture.
Enjoy a picnic lunch near the old gates to Mandu, the Tarapur Darwaza.
Mandu or the ‘City of Joy’ embodies the love of the poet Prince Baz Bahadur for his consort Rani Roopmati. The Balladeers of the region still sing about their love. Each structure in Mandu is an architectural gem.
After a day filled with romance, weave your way back to the fort.
Overnight at Ahilya Fort.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day at leisure to soak in the magical tranquillity.
Overnight at Ahilya Fort
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Bhopal is said to have been founded by King Bhoja of the Paramara Dynasty. The capital city of Madhya Pradesh state is known as the city of lakes. It is home to a number of famous mosques and temples, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Kalighat, Taj-ul-Masajid, both Diwali and Eid are celebrated with gusto in this city.Paan eating is rampant here, and can be found in various combinations and flavours, and local food is relatively milder and has a unique taste. Popular snacks and street-food can be easily found around town.
You will arrive at Bhopal late In the afternoon and check into the Jehan Numa Palace.
The rest of your evening is at leisure.
Overnight at the Jehan Numa Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, leave for your next destination – Satpura National Park. You’ll break your journey on the way to stop and visit the Bhimbhetka Rock Shelters.
Bhimbhetka Rock Shelters: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is situated on the southern edge of the Central Plateau at the foothills of the Vindhyan Mountains. These five clusters of rock shelters that analysts suggest date back to the Mesolithic era. These shelters are also suspected to have been the home of primates like the homo erectus, and greatly resemble those found in Australia, and is another link between the Gond Tribal and the Australian Aboriginal Tribal.
Satpura National Park covers 1500 sq. km of a unique Central Plateau Highland ecosystem, with rugged terrain, valleys, rivulets, waterfalls and narrow gorges. The park is rich in biodiversity, and is the abode of numerous species of flora and fauna. The area’s stunning topography, coupled with the abundance of wildlife it contains caters to a variety of interests and a combination of ways to explore them.
Overnight at the Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
You’ll be served breakfast on your return to the lodge.Note – According to the new Forest regulation by the State Government, which has come into effect from the 1st of April 2011, all National parks in the state of Madhya Pradesh, will remain closed on Wednesday afternoons. Hence you will not be able to do the jungle safari on Wednesday afternoons. The lodge will, in turn organise a village walk in the late afternoon or bird-watching option.
This evening you will be accompanied by a resident naturalist on a boat safari through the Park. You will cruise down the Denwa River into the mammoth Tawa dam, a haven for birdlife and the home of the Indian Fresh Water Crocodile. Otherwise, you can travel upstream to the Son Bhadra nallah that gives to a spectacular view of the river valley.
Overnight at the Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Early this morning you will be taken on a jeep safari to another section of the park. Again you will have a guide who can explain the indigenous flora and fauna.
You’ll be served breakfast on your return to the lodge
After lunch, you will go on a nature walk into the park where you can spot birds, butterflies and other fickle creatures, as well as get a closer look at the native fauna.
Overnight at the Reni Pani Jungle Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast, drive to Pench National Park with packed lunch.
Pench National Park is lesser know but a most conveniently located Tiger habitat. Only 3-4 hours driving distance from the well connected Nagpur airport. Panoramic beauty of this region that has been described as early as the beginning of the 20th century by naturalists like Captain J. Forsyth in ‘Highlands of Central India’ and by Rudyard Kipling in the ‘Jungle Book’. Park takes its name from the Pench River. The river meanders its way through the entire stretch of the 757 sq.km park. The river runs from north to south, dividing the park into almost equal western and eastern halves – the well forested areas of Chhindwara and Seoni districts respectively. Kala Pahar, the park’s highest hill, reaches 650 m above sea level.
The Park has mainly Southern tropical dry deciduous and dry mixed deciduous forest dominated by teak trees. During the dry season the river ceases to flow, forming pools which provide the primary watering holes for Tigers and its prey. On the southern boundary of the park the river is dammed and around its banks are hordes of water-birds. Mugger Indian Marsh crocodile, Indian Flap Shell Turtle and Peninsular Black Turtle can also been seen. Almost all the animals seen in Kanha NP, except barasingha are in habitants of Pench like Gaur, Wild Boar and Common Langurs, Sambar, Spotted and Barking Deer. With luckyou might also see sloth bear, Dhole (wild dog), or even a Leopard which are generally seen in the peripheral areas of the park where they can more easily avoid tigers. Brilliant birdlife of over 170 species has been recorded here.
On arrival, check Into your hotel
Overnight at Baghvan Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Morning and afternoon jeep safaris into the park with a guide.
Overnight at Baghvan Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Morning and afternoon jeep safaris into the park with a guide.
Overnight at Baghvan Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
After breakfast, drive to Nagpur airport to board flight to Mumbai with packed lunch.
Commonly known as ‘Bombay’ until 1996, Mumbai is the commercial capital of India. Its original name “Bombay” emerged from the Portugal term “Bom Bahai” meaning good bay or harbour. The city was formed by the reclamation of 7 islands on the central-western coast along the Arabian Sea. Mumbai lies 1400 km west of the Indian capital, New Delhi.
It is also known as Manchester of India. Mumbai boomed into news as a textile city in the 19th Century. With the opening up of the Suez Canal in 1869 the city’s future as India’s primary port, was assured. Now it is the second biggest city in the world. The glamour of a prolific film industry, cricket on the open areas on weekends, bhel puri (Indian snack) on the Chowpatty beach and red double-decker buses symbolizes the spirit of the city.
On arrival, transfer to a hotel near the airport for the night.
Remainder of the day at leisure.
Overnight at The Leela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Check In for International flight starts 3 hours prior to departure.
