Destinations Covered: Delhi - Agra - Gwalior - Jhansi - Khajuraho - Orchha - Jhansi - Bhopal - Sanchi - Bhopal - Ujjain - Indore - Omkareshwar - Maheshwar - Mandu - Maheshwar - Indore - Mumbai
The Heart of India tour is a planned tour through the heritage, history and culture. Your journey will meander across the vast geography tracing the major influences of India’s diverse culture. The tour starts in the capital city Delhi, where two worlds merge and exist as one. The former Mughal capital Agra impresses all, owing to the Wonder of the World, The Taj Mahal. The stops include Gwalior, Jhansi, Orchha, Bhopal, Mandu, Indore, treasures of Madhya Pradesh. Khajuraho unravels the treasures of sculpted art. Ujjain, Omkareshwar, and Maheshwar are the revered cities of the Lord Shiva. The journey ends in Mumbai.
On arrival to Delhi, check-into your hotel. The day is free of schedules so you can make your own plans. The capital city of India has myriad pleasures. The city has two worlds coming together. It is a city of heritage, history, culture and modern delights. Spend the evening with lip-smacking food, shopping and partaking in the night pleasures.
Start the day leisurely, after which you can spend the day discovering Old and New Delhi. Marvel at the remnants of the royal dynasties that had once ruled Delhi. In contrast to the Old Delhi, lies Lutyen's Delhi, reminiscent of the British Raj. Spend the day visiting impressive structures, walking through history and of course do grab time for shopping and having a bite of street food.
Early in the morning transfer by road to Agra. On arrival, check into the hotel. In the afternoon, visit the famous token of love by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the magnificent Taj Mahal. Proceed to explore the impressive Agra Fort and Itmad-ud-Daulah tomb. The elegance of the Mughal days shines through the specimens of marvellous architecture. Explore the markets for the delicious food and shopping delights. Return to your hotel for the night.
Get a morning transfer by road to Gwalior. On arrival, check-in to the hotel and freshen up. Leave for sightseeing in the afternoon. The historic seat of Scindia Family, Gwalior is situated at the very geographical and historical crossroads of India. The ancient town is noted for the Gwalior Fort overlooking the city, a 5th Century temple of the Sun, Palaces, Jain Temples and mosques. Get back to your hotel for a restful night.
Get the early morning transfer to Gwalior railway station to board the train to Jhansi. On arrival, transfer by road to Khajuraho. One of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, Khajuraho is among the finest temple art in the world. On arrival, check into the Hotel. Rest of day is at leisure.
Early in the morning begin your tour of the Khajuraho temples. The 10th and 11th century temples of the Chandela dynasty have entertaining and instructive specimens. The art of the temples are poetry in motion. The sculpted art has intricate representation of human life, physical and spiritual aspects of existence. The finesse of the art inspires your imagination. The sensuous sculptures of the Western Group of Temples are particularly awe-inspiring. The popular ones include Kandariya Mahadev temple, Chaturbhuj temple, Lakshmana temple, Devi Jagadamba temple, and Javaru temple. After a day full of historical amazements, return to your hotel for the night.
Early in the morning get a transfer by road to Orchha. The intriguing riverside city dates back to the 16th century. On arrival, check into the Hotel. The afternoon sightseeing of the city includes visits to palaces, pavilions, lodges and temples. Jahangir Mahal, Laxmi Narayan temple, the artistic Chattris and the blessed Ram Raja Temple are some attractions of your tour.
After the lessons of history, return to hotel for the night.
In the morning travel by road to Jhansi railway station to board the train to the lake city of Bhopal. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. A city tour is scheduled for the afternoon. Explore centuries of history and cultural heritage. Taj ul Masjid, Shaukat Mahal, Sadar Manzil, Jama Masjid, Museum of Man, etc. are some notable attractions. Do visit the Lakes, the city is so famous for. The lip smacking dishes are a treat to your senses. Overnight stay in your hotel.
Proceed for a morning excursion to Sanchi. Explore this UNESCO world Heritage Site in India. The 3rd century Stupas of Sanchi were constructed on the orders of Emperor Ashoka to preserve and spread the Buddhist philosophy. In the afternoon, proceed for an excursion to Bhimbetka. The Palaeolithic archaeological site exhibits the earliest traces of human life. Return to Bhopal for the night.
Set off to Indore in the morning. En-route stop at Ujjain which is one of the holiest pilgrimage centers for Hindus. The town is built on the banks of River Kshipra and is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India which is called Mahakaleshwar. Pay your regards to Lord Shiva and continued with your journey towards Indore.
On arrival in Indore, have an assisted check in to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. You can relax in your room or explore the surroundings of the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel in Indore.
On the 11th day of the tour, savor the delicious breakfast and then embark on the sightseeing tour of the city. Indore has been the former royal seat of the Holkars. It had played a major role in history. The city is an intriguing destination owing to its heritage and tourist delights. Discover the city with stops at Lal Bagh Palace, Rajwada, the extraordinary Kanch Mandir, and many other attractions.
After lunch drive to Omkareshwar and on arrival, check-in at the hotel. The rest of the time is at your leisure. Enjoy the serene aura of this beautiful place. Overnight stay at the hotel in Omkareshwar.
Wake up early morning to attend the Rudra Abhishek ceremony at Omkareshwar Temple And after breakfast transfer by road for a fascinating drive towards Maheshwar. Snuggled on the bank of the River Narmada, Maheshwar is a popular town of Madhya Pradesh. One can find its mention in the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Upon your arrival, check-in at the hotel. The rest of the time is at your leisure. Spend time exploring the Ahilya Fort, markets, or strolling along the banks of the leisurely flowing Narmada River.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Maheshwar.
Embark on a full day excursion to the fortress town of Mandu. The town dates back to 6th century BC and is replete with palaces, mosques, canals and cenotaphs. The popular names to visit include Jahaz Mahal, Mandu Fort, Afghan architectural marvels, and the monument that inspired the Taj Mahal.
Return to Maheshwar for overnight stay in your hotel.
Enjoy a leisurely morning. Get a late transfer to Indore airport. Have dinner and get the evening transfer for airport. Board the flight to Mumbai.
Early morning depart for onward destination.
