Discover the treasures of India - the Taj Mahal, the “Pink City” of Jaipur, the bustling bazaars of Delhi, and the spiritual center for the Hindu faith, the Ganges River.
The Experience
India has some of the finest cultural and architectural sights in the world. Along with sumptuous palaces, rugged forts and the world-renowned architectural marvel, the Taj Mahal, India also contains the Ganges River, the most sacred body of water in the Hindu religion. Join Valise Founder, Elaine Haffey, on an iconic journey to discover the history, culture and exquisite cuisine of India.
Elaine will open doors to exclusive-access visits that showcase the very best of Indian style, design and culture.
You will meet an influential family of jewelry designers and tour the family's private museum filled with ancient and exquisite textiles, art, jewels and more. You will meet a local fashion designer who will welcome you into her atelier to learn about, and participate in, a traditional hand block printing workshop.
Your accommodations are indulgent and royal, including stays at some of Valise's favorite properties in India. Each hotel on this journey was chosen because it is part of the story itself: a palace, landmark or riverside retreat that puts you at the heart of each city's history and brings you closer to the sights you've come to see.
The sample itinerary below can be modified to include a tiger safari in Ranthambore.
Welcome dinner in Delhi at a 200-year old mansion that won the UNESCO Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation.
Explore the hustle and bustle of Delhi bazaars on a cycle rickshaw.
View the spectacular 17th century Taj Mahal at sunrise.
Visit the Gyan Museum, a private family collection containing a treasure trove of textiles, Mughal rugs, and gemstones. This museum is not open to the general public.
Meet a local designer to learn about contemporary textile design in India. Participate in a hand block-printing workshop.
Visit a Tailor shop for custom clothing.
Tour a food and spice market then take a cooking class to learn how to prepare regional dishes.
Admire the private and exquisite rooms at the Palace of the Royal Family of Jaipur
Visit the majestic Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur.
Witness a grand Hindu prayer ceremony on the banks of the Ganges River, boat cruise at dawn and a spiritual discourse on Hinduism in Varanasi.
A guided community walk through Dharavi, Mumbai’s most famous neighborhood, to see its remarkable industry, craftsmanship and spirit.
Day 1: Arrival to New Delhi
Arrive at Delhi International Airport (DEL).
VIP meet and greet at the aerobridge. After baggage collection, at the arrival lounge you will be introduced to your ‘Valise Travel Concierge’ representative who will escort you to your hotel - The Imperial.
One of the world's oldest continually inhabited cities, Delhi has been built, invaded and colonized by global powers throughout history, including central Asian invaders, the Mughal dynasty and, lastly by the British Empire. Delhi is a city built and re-built seven times over several centuries. The capital city today marries the quaint and unique elements of different historical eras with the pace of the bustling, growing economy. At every turn of the road, the past and the present coexist.
You have the rest of the day at leisure to relax and unwind from your long flight.
Overnight at The Imperial, Grand Heritage Room
Day 2: Delhi
AM: Visit the 17th century Jama Mosque, constructed by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan. Adorned with intricate marble domes, towering minarets, and expansive courtyards, the Jama mosque is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, and one of the largest in the country.
Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling bazaars and narrow lanes teeming with life. As you weave through the labyrinthine streets, you will be immersed in a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and smells. Later, take a stroll through Asia's largest spice market, a dynamic center brimming with aromatic riches and lively energy.
PM: Drive past India Gate, an arch of triumph that bears the names of 85,000 Indian Army soldiers who died in the campaigns of WW I. Culminate the tour with a visit to Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the final resting place of the second Mughal emperor. Not only is it the earliest example of the Mughal garden-tomb style, but it's also a direct architectural predecessor of the more famous Taj Mahal.
The Imperial – Grand Heritage Room
Day 3: Fly Delhi to Jodhpur
AM: Transfer to Delhi airport to board flight for Jodhpur
The second largest city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, a Rajput chief belonging to the Rathore clan. Jodhpur is also known as the "Sun City" for the bright, sunny weather it enjoys all year and the "Blue City" because most of its houses in the old city are painted indigo.
On arrival check-in at Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace –
Historical Suite
Optional: This afternoon drive to Rohet – approx. one hour to interact with the ancient Bishnoi tribes and get a glimpse of their lifestyle, customs, culture and traditions. The Bishnoi sect was founded by Guru Jambheswar in 1451 and followed 29 principles, including their unconditional love for nature and wildlife. Before Guru Jambheswar died, he stated that the black buck was his manifestation and after death should be conserved. It is because of this fact that in Bishnoi dominated areas, deer and antelope such as blue bulls, black bucks, chinkaras etc are seen grazing peacefully in their fields – This experience will be by Jeep.
Day 4: Jodhpur
AM: Visit one of the largest forts of the country, the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. The fort is famous for its expansive courtyards, intricate carvings and multi-storeyed palaces. Our next stop will be near the fort, on the banks of a lake, the Jaswant Thada.
PM: At leisure to enjoy the hotel pool, spa etc. or a local market visit can be organized.
Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace –
Historical Suite
Day 5: Fly Jodhpur to Jaipur
AM: Transfer to Jodhpur airport to board flight for Jaipur
Jaipur has long been called the "Pink City" due to the colour of its fine buildings. With commanding hilltop forts, chaotic bazaars and grand palaces, all of which have changed little in the intervening centuries, Jaipur evokes both the splendour of its Maharajas as well as the bygone days of the British Raj. Steeped in a potent mix of history and culture, Jaipur offers a multi-faceted, insightful glimpse into the complex civilization that is India. A UNESCO World Heritage City.
Upon arrival check-in at the hotel RAAS Rajmahal Palace.
RAAS Rajmahal Palace –
Sukh Niwas / Palace Suite / Royal Suite / Maharaja Suite
Day 6: Jaipur
AM: Begin your day with a photo-stop at Hawa Mahal, a beautiful façade built for the royal women. Continue to the 16th century Amber Fort known for its unique artistic style, blending both Hindu and Muslim elements, and its ornate and breath-taking artistic mastery.
After lunch, experience a bespoke shopping tour in Jaipur which is a delightful experience. The city is famous for its vibrant bazaars, traditional handicrafts, exquisite jewelry, textiles, and more. You can find a wide range of precious and semi-precious gemstones, silver and gold jewelry, and traditional Rajasthani designs. Tie dye and hand-block printed textiles are extremely popular, and so is blue pottery, a traditional art form of Jaipur.
Meet two local female designers to learn about contemporary design in India and shop in their boutiques for readymade clothing that offers a modern take on traditional design.
RAAS Rajmahal Palace –
Sukh Niwas / Palace Suite / Royal Suite / Maharaja Suite
AM: Visit City Palace Museum housing a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes, the armoury of Mughal and Rajput weaponry. Also visit the exquisite rooms of the Royal family on a specially curated private tour.
PM: At leisure to enjoy the hotel pool, spa etc. or a shopping tour can be organized.
Optional: Evening visit a spice market to learn about the spices and condiments used in an Indian meal. Later visit a vegetable market to see the produce available. Learn how the combinations are used in Rajasthani cooking. Meet your chef and cook a few dishes under his guidance followed by dinner at the same venue.
RAAS Rajmahal Palace –
Sukh Niwas / Palace Suite / Royal Suite / Maharaja Suite
Day 8: Drive Jaipur to Agra
AM: Post breakfast, check-out and drive to Agra – approx. 5h.
Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little village of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire - giving it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat which means seat of the Emperor. Today, a visitor in Agra is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices whilst experiencing the irresistible charm that this favourite city of the Mughals still retains.
On arrival visit the Agra Fort, one of the most important strongholds of the Mughals. Post visit, check-in at The Oberoi Amarvilas.
PM: Visit Taj Mahal at sunset, the mausoleum is a love poem – created by Shah Jahan for his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal. It took approximately 22 years, nearly 22,000 labourers to build what we see today.
The Oberoi Amarvilas – Premier Room with Balcony
Day 9: Drive Agra to Delhi, fly to Varanasi
AM: Travel in tuk-tuks to Mehtab Bagh situated across the Yamuna River. Built at the same time as the Taj, Mehtab Bagh is a Persian-style quadrilateral garden whose design mirrors the approach to the Taj. Enjoy uninterrupted and breath-taking views of the 17th century Taj Mahal. Return to your hotel for breakfast.
Post breakfast, drive to Delhi airport – approx. 4h.
Upon arrival at Delhi airport connect flight for Varanasi
Called the "oldest living city on Earth", Varanasi is the holiest city of both the Hindu and Jain faiths. A collection of rambling alleyways and crowded streets leading to the ghats, or steps, on the banks of the Ganges, Varanasi was said to have been founded by Shiva himself.
Today, Varanasi is a chaotic, vibrant mix of pilgrims, merchants, priests, and, of course, curious visitors, all of whom seek to tap into the energy that pulses through this ancient city.
This evening get enlightened on Hinduism and the significance of the Ganges River by your guide. Witness the unforgettable spiritual experience known as “aarti” (Hindu prayer ceremony) which takes place at sunset along the banks of the holy Ganga River. Enjoy the sound of hymns being sung by saffron-robed gurus, smell the incense and watch as the disciples sway in unison.
Day 10: Varanasi
AM: Private boat-ride at dawn on the Ganges. The ghats - hundreds of stone steps flanking the riverbank - are an incredible sight, particularly at sunrise when thousands of pilgrim’s bathe in the spiritually cleansing waters. Funeral pyres smoke on the riverbank, which is lined with colorful temples. The boat ride is one of the best ways witness the various Hindu ceremonies. Later walk around the by-lanes of the old city and the ancient Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Return to your hotel for breakfast, and some free time to relax.
PM: Drive to Sarnath, a small village on the outskirts of Varanasi. The Dhamek Stupa at Sarnath is the site where the Buddha gave his first teaching after attaining enlightenment, turning the Wheel of Dharma, as it is called, so the place is especially auspicious.
Brijrama Palace – Nadidhara
Day 11: Fly Varanasi to Mumbai
AM: Transfer to Varanasi airport to board flight for Mumbai
PM: Colonial walk of Mumbai (approx. 2 hours). This tour starts with the Gateway of India, the emblem of Mumbai tourism. This victory arch was built to welcome the British Queen to the city. Post this, we will walk past the Royal Mumbai Yacht Club, the Police Headquarters, the National Gallery of Modern Art and the city museum. En-route, we will stumble upon the Kala Ghoda area, which is the art area of Mumbai. Here amidst stories of Sassoon and Jewish history, you will hear stories about the Watson Hotel – the first iron cast building in the city that hosted Mark Twain.
The Taj Mahal Palace –
Luxury Grande Sea View
Day 12: Mumbai
AM: Post breakfast, proceed to discover Bandra – where youthfulness meets history! From colorful homes to magnificent churches, this vibrant area dates to the 16th century. Unravel tales of fisherfolk, East Indians, and Portuguese rule. Join us for a journey through time, exploring hidden ruins and unique customs, and making unforgettable memories in the ‘Queen of the Burbs’!
Return to the hotel for some time at leisure.
PM: Embark on the captivating Worli Village Chronicles, a journey into the heart of Mumbai’s original fisherfolk, the Koli community. Explore their traditions, beliefs, and unique phenomenon of a talking goddess. Marvel at the blend of cultures in the village’s places of worship, visit a 17th-century fort with breathtaking views, and experience the buzzing fishing pier, the heart of their livelihood.
The Taj Mahal Palace –
Luxury Grande Sea View
Day 13: Onward Flights from Mumbai
AM: Early morning transfer to Mumbai airport to connect to your international flight
Where You'll Stay
Valise doesn't choose hotels from a brochure. We have personally stayed at each of these properties, so every recommendation comes from firsthand experience of the rooms, the service, and the setting. Valise's long-standing relationships with the teams at these hotels mean you arrive as a known and welcomed guest, with your preferences already in hand.
The Imperial, New Delhi · 2 nights
Your journey begins at one of Delhi's grandest addresses. The Imperial opened in 1931 just off Janpath in the heart of Lutyens' Delhi. It blends Victorian, colonial and Art Deco style, and its corridors are lined with an extraordinary collection of colonial-era art. After a long flight, you settle into a Grand Heritage Room, and the city's history starts the moment you walk through the door.
Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur · 2 nights
This is one of the last great palaces built in India, and it is still home to Jodhpur's royal family, who keep private apartments here. The golden sandstone and Art Deco palace rises above the Blue City. You stay in a Historical Suite, and your afternoons are free for the palace pool and spa between visits to Mehrangarh Fort.
RAAS Rajmahal Palace, Jaipur · 3 nights
Dating to the 18th century, this pink palace has hosted royalty and world leaders. It was once a residence of Jaipur's own Maharaja and Maharani. Today it is an intimate collection of suites with bold, playful interiors that bring the Pink City's sense of color indoors. It makes a gracious, unhurried base for your days of bazaars, designers and private palace visits.
The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra · 1 night
Every room at Amarvilas looks out to the Taj Mahal, which sits just a short distance away. From your Premier Room balcony, you can watch the monument change color at sunset and again at dawn. It is the one place to stay when the Taj is the reason you came.
Brijrama Palace, Varanasi · 2 nights
This early 19th-century palace sits directly on the ghats of the Ganges, and the river is the center of your stay. Your room looks over the water, and you are steps from the evening aarti ceremony and the dawn boat ride. It is a rare, intimate way to experience the oldest living city on Earth.
The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai · 2 nights
You end the journey at India's most famous hotel. It opened in 1903 facing the Gateway of India and the Arabian Sea, and it has welcomed maharajas, presidents and celebrities ever since. From your Luxury Grande Sea View room, you look straight out over the harbor, a fitting place to celebrate the trip before you fly home.
Where does the trip start and end?
Your adventure begins in New Delhi (DEL) and ends in Mumbai (BOM) Private transfers are included for arrival and departure.
Please contact Valise with any questions about flights.
How To Book
Reserve your spot today with a 30% deposit plus room supplements (if relevant).
The full payment is due 120 days before your trip starts. We’ll send you a reminder email before the payment deadline. If you book a trip less than 120 days in advance, you must pay the remaining balance either 30 days after booking or 60 days before the trip, whichever comes first. Some trips may require a higher deposit.
Do I need Travel Insurance?
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance and can provide a quote. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement for your trip costs; if your trip plans change for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to get medical help, emergency transport, and for theft, loss or damage of items while traveling. For best coverage, always insure the full trip cost within two weeks of your initial trip deposit and note that most ‘Cancel For Any Reason’ policies must be purchased on the date of your initial deposit.
Contact Valise for a Travel Insurance Quote
What is the cancellation policy?
You may cancel on or before 90 days prior to the trip start date and receive a full refund minus a $500 per-person service fee. If you cancel on or after 90 days prior, there is a 50% cancellation fee. On or after 30 days prior there is a 100% cancellation fee. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance as we are not able to make exceptions to this policy in cases of family/medical emergency or cases of the trip being canceled (see our Terms and Conditions for full details).
What does the price include?
All accommodations, transfers and tours as stated.
What does the price not include?
International roundtrip airfare; travel insurance; activities not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including room service, laundry service and hotel bar tabs; food and beverages not included in itinerary; gratuities for guides and drivers.