8 Days India Cultural Tour: Taj Mahal, History, Architecture & Spirituality

Welcome to Delhi, the capital city of India! When you arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport, our local professional guide and driver will pick you up and escort you to the downtown area. After checking in at your hotel, you can relax and decompress from your long flight for the rest of the day.

Delhi is a fascinating metropolis that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Divided into two distinct parts - Old Delhi and New Delhi - the city offers a captivating journey through time, where ancient traditions coexist with modern developments.

Arrival Ideas:
1. Flights to Delhi: Travelers can take international flights to Indira Gandhi International Airport from major cities in Europe (London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Rome), the Middle East (Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi), North America (New York, Toronto, Los Angeles), and Asia (Kathmandu, Singapore, Phuket, Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur, Kuwait, Bangkok, Colombo). India domestic flights connect New Delhi with Varanasi (1h 20m), Udaipur (1h 25m), Mumbai (2h), Amritsar (1h 20m), and other destinations.
2. Delhi Airport Transportation: Delhi Airport is located in Palam, about 18km southwest of central Delhi. The airport is well-connected to the city center, with a typical travel time of 30 to 45 minutes by car.

Free Time Ideas (Optional): Red Fort Sound and Light Show (Jai Hind, Evening Show of 60 min)
With a seating arrangement of 700 people for a single viewing, this spectacular evening show brings the history of the Red Fort (World Heritage) and Delhi to life in a fun and engaging way! (Tips: Closed on Mondays. Make sure to book your tickets in advance. Show timings: 6:30 - 7:30 pm in Hindi; 8:15 - 9:15 pm in English).

Get ready for an extraordinary adventure in Delhi! Today, you’ll embark on a unique time travel tour, journeying from the majestic Old Delhi steeped in history, all the way to the modern marvels of New Delhi. This exciting exploration will weave together the vibrant tapestry of Delhi, allowing you to witness the city's ancient grandeur seamlessly blend with its contemporary flair.

Your exploration begins in the heart of Old Delhi, where you'll visit Jama Masjid, one of India's largest and most awe-inspiring mosques. Construction began in 1644 under the reign of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the same visionary who brought us the Taj Mahal. This magnificent structure, also known as Masjid-i-Jahan Numa (meaning "mosque commanding the view of the world"), is crafted from red sandstone and adorned with beautiful white marble. Step back into the 17th century and stand in awe under the towering minarets of Jama Masjid. Feel the spiritual energy resonate through time and imagine the grandeur of the Mughal era as the call to prayer echoes through the centuries.

Later, take a stroll to Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Old Delhi. Also established by the Shah Jahan in the 17th century, this market is a maze of narrow alleyways filled with small shops offering delectable snacks, sweets, and savories, as well as budget-friendly deals on clothing and other items. Chandni Chowk stretches from the iconic Red Fort to the historic Fatehpuri Masjid, covering a significant distance. To fully immerse yourself in the charm of Old Delhi, we recommend taking an optional rickshaw tour around Chandni Chowk.

Don't miss the opportunity to pass by the Red Fort (World Heritage) and marvel at its symbol of grandeur. Known as Lal Qila and built by the Shah Jahan, the fort serves as the main residence for the Mughal emperors of India and is recognized as a significant architectural masterpiece.

After that, make your way to New Delhi and explore the iconic India Gate. This magnificent memorial is dedicated to the Indian soldiers of World War I. Resembling the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, India Gate stands as a prominent landmark, symbolizing an important chapter in India's history.

As you move forward, you'll have the opportunity to witness the transformation of Delhi into a thriving modern metropolis while also having a chance to take photos of several notable landmarks, including the Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Residence), Parliament House, North Block, and South Block.

Then, you will arrive at Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tallest brick minaret in the world. Standing proudly at an astonishing height of 72.5 meters (238 feet), the Qutub Minar showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of Indo-Islamic architecture. Prepare to be enthralled by the sheer magnificence of this historical masterpiece as you delve into its rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 12th century.

Finally, visit Humayun's Tomb, another jewel in Delhi's crown and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It holds the distinction of being the first significant example of a Mughal garden tomb. Its breathtaking design and captivating blend of Persian and Indian architectural styles even served as inspiration for the future wonder of the world, the Taj Mahal! Adorned with intricate marble inlays and surrounded by Char Bagh gardens, this red sandstone monument stands as an iconic symbol of Mughal architecture. Stroll through the paradise garden, marvel at the architectural grandeur, and immerse yourself in the captivating love story it holds.

After this amazing tour, you’ll head back your hotel.

Ready for your road trip? After breakfast, you’ll take your very first road trip in India! This journey is approximately 250 km (155 miles) and takes about 4.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

The primary route for travel between Delhi and Agra is the Yamuna Expressway. It is known for its well-maintained surface and infrastructure. With our selected vehicle, that's a comfy road trip guaranteed. And it's a scenic road trip as well! Witness the captivating transformation as Delhi's urban sprawl transitions into picturesque landscapes, flyover bridges right over lush green fields, and vibrant agricultural farms painting the landscape.

Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel and unwind after the driving. Later, you will go to Agra Fort which is located not far from Taj Mahal. Interestingly, Shah Jahan was imprisoned within the Agra Fort by his son Aurangzeb. From his vantage point, he is said to have gazed upon the Taj Mahal, which served as a constant reminder of his beloved wife.

Agra Fort is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, a formidable red sandstone fort built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, serving as the seat of Mughal power for nearly a century. Your guide will lead you through the imposing gateways, showcasing the fort's rich history and architectural brilliance. Explore the various palaces, courtyards, and audience halls that once housed emperors, their families, and the Mughal court. Witness the exquisite craftsmanship evident in the intricate carvings, marble inlay work, and jali screens (decorative perforated stonework).

Another site today is Mehtab Bagh for the amazing sunset view. Set off on a brief excursion to the adorable Mehtab Bagh, fondly known as the "Moonlight Garden". This 16th-century Mughal-era garden offers a unique perspective of the Taj Mahal, especially during sunset. Watch the iconic Taj Mahal's silhouette reflecting over the calm Yamuna River, creating a truly magical scene. And it's a perfect sneak peek preview of the Taj Mahal.

Today will be the big day for the Taj Mahal! Your knowledgeable guide will pick you up from your hotel in the pre-dawn hours, so you can enjoy a serene sunrise viewing of the Taj Mahal bathed in ethereal glow, away from the day's heat and crowds.

As you approach the magnificent Taj Mahal, your guide will streamline the entry process as you admire its immaculate white marble facade glistens in the morning light. This remarkable architectural masterpiece, recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, serves as an eternal symbol of love. Emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in the 17th century as a tribute to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Walking up to the Main Gate of the Taj Mahal is an experience in itself. The gate is carved from red sandstone and adorned with intricate floral patterns. It serves as a grand prelude to the awe-inspiring monument that awaits you. Stepping through, you enter the Charbagh, a formal Mughal garden divided into four perfect quarters by reflecting pools. This symmetry and balance foreshadow the architectural mastery evident in the Tomb itself.

The centerpiece of the Taj Mahal complex is the white marble mausoleum, which houses the cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. The story goes that Shah Jahan deliberately built the minarets of the Taj Mahal - towers that serve as vantage points and landmarks - away from and tilted outwards from the main structure. In the unlikely event of a collapse, they would fall away from the Taj Mahal. So the tomb of his beloved wife would remain unharmed. Intricate floral designs, calligraphy, and semi-precious stone inlays that adorn the tomb's surface offer a glimpse into the unparalleled craftsmanship of the era, leaving you breathless with its beauty.

After marveling at the architectural mastery of the Taj Mahal, you will return to your hotel for a refreshing breakfast.

After that, you will depart from Agra and make your way to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri. The journey covers approximately 250km and takes about 5 hours. En route to Jaipur, make a stop at Fatehpur Sikri, meaning "City of Victory”, (UNESCO World Heritage Site), which is which is 40 kilometers west of Agra. It served as the capital of the Mughal Empire under Emperor Akbar from 1571 to 1585. Visiting Fatehpur Sikri offers a deep dive into India's rich history, providing insight into the life and times of one of its most celebrated emperors, Akbar the Great. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prime example of Akbar's architectural genius, dominated by red sandstone buildings, showcasing a unique blend of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic architectural styles, a reflection of the syncretic culture developed under Akbar’s rule.

The city is divided into two main areas: the royal palace complex and the religious complex. The royal complex includes stunning buildings such as the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Jodha Bai's Palace, Birbal's House, and Panch Mahal, among others. The religious compound features the Jama Masjid (Grand Mosque) and the tomb of Salim Chisti, a revered Sufi saint, which draws pilgrims from all over due to its sanctity and the belief in the fulfillment of wishes tied to it. One of Fatehpur Sikri’s most iconic structures is the Buland Darwaza (The Gate of Victory), standing at a height of 55 meters. It was erected by Akbar to commemorate his victory over Gujarat and is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture. The gate serves as the main entrance to the Jama Masjid.

Following the tour, drive on to Jaipur, which is approximately 210 kilometers away, taking around 4 hours from Fatehpur Sikri. Welcome to Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, India, known as the "Pink City" for its trademark building color. Jaipur's most striking feature is the rose-colored hue of its buildings in the old city center. his distinctive color scheme is attributed to a welcoming gesture by Maharaja Ram Singh who had the city painted pink in 1876 to honor a visit by the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII). Upon reaching Jaipur, check in at your hotel and take some time to unwind.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a full-day Jaipur sightseeing led by your guide, including visits to the magnificent Amber Fort, the City Palace, the Hawa Mahal, and the Jaipur Jantar Mantar.

Your first destination is Amber Fort (World Heritage). The magnificent, formidable, honey-hued fort of Amber is an exquisite example of Rajput architecture. It is located in the rugged hills about 11km northeast of Jaipur, overlooking Maota Lake, and is a must-see sight in the city. Amber was the former capital of Jaipur state. This magnificent fort comprises an extensive palace complex, showcasing a fine blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. It is built from pale yellow and pink sandstone, along with white marble, and features a grand palace, temples, and several ornate gates. Of particular interest is the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), where the walls are inlaid with exquisite mirrored motifs that dance in the flickering flame of even a single candle.

Tips: You can choose to take a jeep ride (optional) up to the Amber fork rather than take an elephant ride (optional).

You can reach the Amber fort through the Suraj Pol (Sun Gate) which leads to the Jaleb Chowk, the first main courtyard. Diagonally opposite is the Chand Pol (Moon Gate). From Jaleb Chowk, a flight of stairs leads up to the small Siladevi Temple, whose doors feature relief work in silver. The main palace is up next, which includes the Diwan-e-Am (hall for a private audience with the king) with carved columns and latticed galleries, the king’s apartments, the gate Ganesh Pol with beautiful arches, and Jai Mandir or Sheesh Mahal. Stand at one of the many arched windows of the palace and take in the rolling shrubland stretching up to the horizon and the scenic Maota Lake at the foot of the fort.

Next, head to the City Palace, situated in the old city of Jaipur. It is a sprawling complex that blends Rajput and Mughal architecture styles and serves as the royal residence of the Jaipur royal family. The palace houses several buildings, including Chandra Mahal, the Armoury, Diwan-i-Khas, and Diwan-i-Am Art Gallery, along with courtyards and gardens. Among them, Pitam Niwas Chowk (Courtyard of Love) is a photographer's delight. It is famous for its 4 colored gates, each representing a different season. The Peacock Gate depicts autumn, the Lotus Gate signifies summer, the Green Gate represents spring, and finally, the Rose Gate embodies winter.

No tour would be complete without visiting Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). It is renowned for its unique 5-story exterior, resembling the honeycomb of a beehive. This architectural wonder is built of red and pink sandstone, and features an incredible 953 intricately carved windows. These windows, resembling a honeycomb design, gave the building its name ("hawa" meaning "wind" in Hindi) and allowed royal ladies to observe everyday life and festivals in the street below without being seen. The clever design also facilitate the circulation of cool breezes throughout the palace, providing natural air conditioning, especially during the hot summer months. Hawa Mahal is an architectural marvel that blends Hindu Rajput architecture with Islamic Mughal architecture. The facade of Hawa Mahal is a stunning sight, particularly when bathed in the golden light of the early morning or late afternoon.

Immediately behind the Hawa Mahal is the Jaipur Jantar Mantar (World Heritage), considered one of the oldest astronomical observatories in the world, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The observatory houses the world's largest stone sundial and features 16 devices designated to measure time, observe planetary motion around the sun, and keep track of celestial bodies. The geometric devices of the observatory are both functional and architecturally fascinating, offering a glimpse into the advanced astronomy studies of the 18th century.

On this day, you will depart from Jaipur to Amritsar by flight. Upon arrival, you will be greeted at the airport and be transferred to your hotel in Amritsar. After completing the check in process, go for a walk around the nearby markets. Amritsar is famous for its Punjabi cuisine, which is known for its rich flavors and use of ghee and spices. You can try some of the local specialties like Amritsari Kulcha, Chole Bhature, and Lassi.

Amritsar, a holy city in northwestern India's state of Punjab, attracts visitors with its rich tapestry of history, spirituality, culture, and delectable cuisine. Amritsar's history dates back to the 16th century when it was founded by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru. It is known as the spiritual and cultural center of the Sikh religion. The magnificent Golden Temple is the main highlight, where you can immerse yourself in Sikh history and culture.

Optional Evening Activity in Amritsar:

The night view of the Golden Temple in Amritsar is breathtaking. The illuminated temple, surrounded by the serene Amrit Sarovar (holy tank), creates a mesmerizing sight. The reflection of the glistening golden structure in the water adds to the ethereal ambiance. As darkness falls, the temple complex is adorned with lights, casting a warm glow and creating a captivating atmosphere. The temple also holds a night ceremony called the Palki Sahib, where the Guru Granth Sahib is ritually carried to its resting place for the night.

After breakfast, you will have a full day exploration in Amritsar. The first stop is the Golden Temple. Amritsar's crown jewel, the Harmandir Sahib (also known as the Golden Temple), is the holiest gurdwara (Sikh place of worship) globally, revered for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance. The temple's golden dome reflects in the holy pool surrounding it, creating a breathtaking sight, especially at sunrise and sunset. Built in the 16th century by Guru Arjan, the fifth Sikh Guru, and completed by Guru Hargobind, the sixth Guru, the Golden Temple boasts stunning architecture. Its upper floors, covered in gold leaf, give it its distinctive appearance. The temple is surrounded by a beautiful sarovar (holy tank) called Amrit Sarovar, believed to have healing powers.

The atmosphere is serene and filled with a sense of spirituality. As you enter the temple complex, you'll witness devotees engaging in prayer, hymn singing, and the soothing sound of the Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh holy scripture) being recited.

For lunch, experience the iconic Langar at the Golden Temple. Here, the world's largest community kitchen operates 24/7, feeding over eighty thousand people every day free of charge. The experience is magical. As you take your place in the grand hall, savor the deliciously cooked meals. Finally, you'll be served Karah Prashad, a semolina halwa rich in ghee and absolutely sensational.

Travel Tips for Visiting Golden Temple:

1. Dress Code: As a sign of respect, it is advisable to dress modestly when visiting the Golden Temple. Both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. It's also customary to cover your head, so carrying a scarf or handkerchief is recommended.
2. Footwear: Upon entering the Golden Temple complex, you'll need to remove your shoes and store them in the designated shoe storage area.
3. Wash Hands and Feet: Before entering the main temple area, it is customary to wash your hands and feet as a form of purification.
4. Silence and Respect: The Golden Temple is a place of worship and spirituality.

Next, visit the beautiful Ram Bagh Gardens, a historical garden located in Amritsar. Built in 1819, it was a summer palace for Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Explore the garden laid out in the Mughal style for a leisurely stroll and visit Ranjit Singh Museum.

In the evening, you will go to witness the massive closing ceremony of the training of the Indian and the Pakistan soldiers at Wagah border. The training ends with a march from both sides, lowering of the national flag before they are folded and the soldiers are dismissed.

Stay overnight in Amritsar.

After breakfast, head to the Amritsar train station for your fast train back to Delhi (about 6-8 hours). Upon arrival in Delhi, you'll either be transferred to your hotel or escorted to Indira Gandhi International Airport to catch your flight home or to your next destination.

Extension Ideas: If you prefer to travel longer in India, you can extend your trip to other highlighted parts of India, Udaipur, Varanasi, Ranthambhore, Pushkar, Jodhpur, etc.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Asia tour, we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!