india odyssey tours

*Prices below are per person based on double occupancy and include airline taxes, surcharges and fees of $0, which are subject to change until final payment is made. All tour prices (excluding airline taxes, surcharges, and fees) are guaranteed.

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Odysseys Unlimited

Mystical India

With ranthambore tiger preserve.

india odyssey tours

Mystical and spiritual, chaotic and confounding, India overflows with riches. While staying at excellent hotels, we travel the classic Golden Triangle: bustling Delhi; Agra, home of the sublime Taj Mahal; and Jaipur, great city of the Rajput. We also search for elusive Bengals at Ranthambore Tiger Preserve, and absorb the holiness of Varanasi.

india odyssey tours

Tour Details

india odyssey tours

From $5,287

Small Group Highlights

  • Tours of Old and New Delhi
  • Home-hosted dinner with Jaipur family
  • Magnificent Taj Mahal
  • Two-night stay at Ranthambore Tiger Preserve
  • Meena tribal home visit
  • “Pink City” of Jaipur
  • Holy city of Varanasi
  • Pilgrimage site of Sarnath temple and museum

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Day-by-Day Itinerary

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Surrounded by six acres of lush greenery in Delhi’s Diplomatic Enclave, the Taj Palace features contemporary décor accented by marble and brass.  The “Capital’s Palace” houses four award-winning restaurants, a stylish bar, nine-hole putting greens, a heated pool, shopping arcade, fitness center, beauty salon, spa, and laundry and dry-cleaning services (for a fee).  The 402 air-conditioned guest rooms have complimentary Wi-Fi internet access and a private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities, TV, and phone.

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These select departures will be 19 days in duration, with two additional nights spent at the festival — after the stay in Delhi and prior to arriving in Jaipur.

Lively and exotic Hindu gatherings, with camel trading, feasts, and traditional sports and entertainment. We spend 2 nights at a nearby tented camp (Nagaur); or at a nearby resort (Pushkar).

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A masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture, the Jai Mahal Palace (Taj) is certified environmentally-friendly and the former home of maharajahs and three prime ministers of Jaipur.  This 270-year-old hotel sits amidst 18 acres of beautifully landscaped Mughal gardens.  Amenities include three restaurants, one bar, a bakery, and two lounges; a barber shop and beauty salon; an outdoor pool; fitness center; spa with massage treatments; billiards and game room; complimentary Wi-Fi internet access; and laundry service and dry-cleaning service (for a fee).  Decorated with period furniture and Rajasthani paintings, air-conditioned guest rooms have a private bath with hair dryer, tea- and coffee-making facilities, in-room safe, minibar, TV, and phone.

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The Royal Family of Jaipur built the Sawai Madhopur Lodge – IHCL SeleQtions (by Taj) as a hunting lodge in 1930; now, the hotel serves as a retreat amidst the wilderness of Ranthambore National Park.  The rustic-style lodge offers a restaurant and bar, complimentary Wi-Fi internet access, laundry and dry-cleaning services (for a fee), library, fitness center, spa, badminton, and outdoor pool.  Each of the 36 air-conditioned guest rooms has private bath with hair dryer, minibar, in-room safe, tea- and coffee-making facilities, TV, and phone.

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Off the beaten track in rural Rajasthan sits Dera Village, a rustic yet comfortable haven of guest cabins set amidst a series of traditional villages.  The camp offers a unique opportunity to witness how many Indians live, away from the cities.  During our stay we visit a local school, take a camel cart safari, and meet local Meena tribespeople in their homes.  Along with a restaurant, gardens and bonfires add to the retreat’s ambience.  The 17 air-conditioned guest cabins have private bath with hot and cold running water and hair dryer.  This remote location has no telephone service.

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The Tajview, Agra sits amidst six acres of meticulously manicured gardens close to the Taj Mahal and other local sites. This hotel boasts several restaurants/bars, as well as a fitness center, full-service spa, outdoor swimming pool, laundry and dry-cleaning services (for a fee), and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access. All air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, minibar, TV, and phone.

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Set amidst 40 acres of landscaped lawns, Taj Ganges offers a host of amenities including a restaurant, coffee shop, and bar; shopping arcade; complimentary Wi-Fi internet access; laundry and dry-cleaning services (for a fee); astrologer; fitness center; outdoor pool; badminton; tennis court; yoga; beauty salon; and spa services.  Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, tea- and coffee-making facilities, minibar, in-room safe, TV, and phone.

india odyssey tours

The 270-room Pullman New Delhi Aerocity is conveniently located near the airport and the local business district.  Hotel amenities include two restaurants, bar, and café; complimentary Wi-Fi internet access; laundry and dry-cleaning services (for a fee); fitness center with spa; and outdoor swimming pool.  Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, tea- and coffee-making facilities, minibar, TV, and phone.

Tour Price Includes

  • Round-trip air transportation from listed cities; all flights within India
  • 15 nights’ accommodations in Deluxe, Superior First Class, First Class, and unrated hotels
  • 32 meals: 14 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 10 dinners
  • Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
  • Services of an Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director
  • Private motorcoach transportation throughout your trip
  • Luggage handling for one bag per person
  • Gratuities for local guides, dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers
  • $100 frequent traveler credit towards your next Odysseys Unlimited tour ($200 after 3 tours; $300 after 10 tours)

india odyssey tours

Average Daily High by Month (°F )

Average temperature (°f ), dates & prices.

Business Class upgrade (subject to availability; pricing subject to change) on round-trip Trans-Atlantic flight: $5,995 per person

A visa is required for this tour. Odysseys Unlimited will provide information about entry requirements upon reservation.

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Post-Tour Extension

india odyssey tours

Absorb the beauty of the Himalayan kingdom –­ ­and the warmth of its people – on this special journey featuring sacred shrines, royal cities, and indigenous lifestyles.

Post-Tour Extension Price Includes

  • Round-trip air transportation Delhi/Kathmandu, inclusive of airline taxes and fees
  • 4 nights’ accommodations: 2 nights in Nagarkot at Club Himalaya Nagarkot (Superior First Class); 2 nights in Kathmandu at The Soaltee Kathmandu (Superior First Class); day room in Delhi
  • 8 meals: 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
  • Extensive sightseeing, including Pashupatinath shrine (UNESCO site); Boudhanath monument; colorful Bhaktapur, “City of Devotees;” Swayambhunath Temple; royal city of Patan; and Kathmandu and environs
  • Private motorcoach transportation
  • Gratuities for dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers

Pricing: $1,495 in 2024; $1,595 in 2025. Single Supplement: $375 all dates.

A visa is required for this post-tour extension. Odysseys Unlimited will provide information about entry requirements upon reservation.

Accommodations

india odyssey tours

Club Himalaya Nagarkot sits at 7,200 feet and commands spectacular panoramic views of the valley and of the snowcapped Himalayans, particularly at sunrise or sunset. The hotel offers several restaurants and a bar, rooftop observatory, complimentary Wi-Fi internet access, indoor swimming pool, fitness center, spa with sauna and massage treatments, and library. Each of the 52 air-conditioned guest rooms features private bath with hair dryer, private balcony, TV, and phone.

india odyssey tours

The 282-room Soaltee Kathmandu stands amidst 12 acres of gardens in the shadow of the Himalayas. The hotel offers several restaurants, bar, and lounge; safe-deposit boxes; gift shop; beauty salon; fitness center; spa with sauna and steam bath; outdoor pool; and laundry and dry-cleaning services (for a fee). Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, complimentary Wi-Fi internet access, in-room safe, minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities, TV, and phone.

india odyssey tours

Tour Directors

india odyssey tours

Tour Director – Nepal Extension

“Anup Shrestha was also very kind and knowledgeable. I was the only guest on the Nepal Extension tour, so he offered to customize my experience to include more hiking (as I had hoped).”

Valerie Wagner New York, NY

india odyssey tours

Tour Director - Nepal Extension

“Certainly one of the best tour directors that I have had.”

Delores Nance Tempe, AZ

india odyssey tours

“[They were both] exceptionally committed to the individual needs of the travelers; really seemed to care about us.”

Elaine Bohlmeyer Forest Grove, OR

india odyssey tours

“Both guides [were] very professional. Gave us a sense of comfort that wouldn’t have been possible without them.”

Clete Willems Bonita Springs, FL

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“Charming, knowledgeable, and attentive to each person’s needs. Couldn’t have a better guide than Girish.”

Lois & Joel Seiden Sarasota, FL

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“Very personable – enjoyed his humor & describing customs of Nepal – excellent guide.”

Nancy Whitfield Hobart, WI

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“Ritu is [wonderful]… She is very knowledgeable about India and made India come alive for us. She is very attentive to everyone’s specific needs. Ritu is fun-loving and flexible.”

Patricia Murphy Danville, CA

india odyssey tours

“Rashid was professional, personable, and most accommodating to our wants – a perfect representative of Odysseys’ high standard for tour guides.”

Walter J. Novak Tolland, CT

india odyssey tours

“Great guy and tour director. Very kind and helpful in all situations. So knowledgeable and shared great information and insights.”

Dedee & Irv Cygler Charlotte, NC

india odyssey tours

“Singh was over-the-top amazing in every way – his knowledge of India was simply incredibly – no question went unanswered. Fabulous personality!”

Carol Caswell Philadelphia, PA

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“Padmaja was the best! She was very knowledgeable and above-and-beyond helpful.”

Michele Vercoutere Santa Monica, CA

india odyssey tours

“Calm, kind, adventurous, supremely helpful.”

Carol Morganski Columbus, OH

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Physical Activity Level

  • Walk 1-3 miles per day, often on uneven terrain
  • Potential for substandard air quality on some days (especially in Delhi)
  • Need to takes shoes off to enter various temples and sites
  • Several long days of travel via motorcoach

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A company that designs tailor-made holidays and private tours in India for the independent discerning traveler.

For this we use a hand-picked portfolio of exciting and unusual places to stay.

We try to ensure that our trips are sustainable as well as authentic - and, of course, fun!

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India Odyssey: Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambore, Varanasi & More

india odyssey tours

Itinerary Details

FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Experience the rich culture, heritage and diverse landscape of Northern India by visiting incredible destinations including Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park, Agra, Lucknow, and Varanasi. Explore ancient forts and monuments, experience wildlife, and immerse yourself in spiritual and cultural traditions.

New India Odyssey

This 14-day trip through India serves as the perfect introduction to this complex country while whetting your appetite for more. Explore bustling Delhi, beautiful Jaipur, spiritual Varanasi, and keep your eyes peeled for tigers in Ranthambore National Park.

Begin the journey in Delhi, India's frenetic, sometimes overwhelming but always fascinating capital. Visit the Red Fort, a city within a city, the important and beautiful Jama Masjid Mosque and the serene cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Later it’s time to head for New Delhi to see the impressive India Gate on the Rajpath, the Presidential Palace, the ancient tower, the Qutub Minar and Humayan’s Tomb where a number of former emperors are buried.

Next stop is the city of Jaipur. Start by travelling to the imposing Amber Fort perched high on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside and reached by 4x4 jeep. Returning to town, spend time at CityPalace and the interesting Jantar Mantar old time observatory as well as viewing the Palace of Winds.

Travel overland to Ranthambore National Park, a former Maharaja’s hunting ground. Here enjoy two safaris into the jungle to view local wildlife including tigers, leopards, hyenas plus many tropical birds. Keep in mind these are wild animals, so sightings, while probable, are never guaranteed when it comes to more elusive species (leopards, especially). Be patient and enjoy the scenery while your guide follows the trail. You'll also visit the historical Ranthambore Fort.

Board a train and travel to Bharatpur, stopping at Fatehpur Sikri, the Ghost city with a story. Afterwards, arrive in Agra where your visit to the Taj Mahal, India's ultimate monument to a ruler's love, will be visited followed by Agra’s Fort. Lucknow is your next stop, and probably the least known city on this itinerary. Foodies however, will be in heaven, while history buffs will lose themselves in the legacy and exciting stories of the British Raj and Persian influences.

Varanasi is a city apart from the rest of India, where the faithful wash away their sins in the ghats of the Ganges. While we don't recommend tourists join them in the holy waters, a visit here is an unforgettable India experience before you explore the beautiful temples that dot this holy city. Visit Bharat Mata Temple and take a boat ride on the Ganges before returning to Delhi for your onward flight.

Itinerary View Trip Map

Arrive delhi.

Welcome to Delhi, India's capital and major gateway. Delhi is a tantalizing mix of ancient monuments, wide boulevards, narrow alleys, urban parks and spiraling towers. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

star

The Suryaa New Delhi

This is a luxury hotel with many amenities. It is located close to the business district, but shopping malls and other recreation facilities are all nearby, making it an ideal choice for business and leisure travellers alike. mp0408 The hotel is located 8 kilometres from …

This is a luxury hotel with many amenities. It is located close to the business district, but shopping malls and other recreation facilities are all nearby, making it an ideal choice for business and leisure travellers alike. mp0408 The hotel is located 8 kilometres from the city centre and is a 40-minute drive from the airport. Luxurious, spacious and comfortable room with Ergonomic Work Desk, In Room Electronic Safe, 32 Inch Plasma LCD, Usage of Gym & Outdoor Pool, Fruit Basket on arrival.

More Details

Delhi Sightseeing

After breakfast, start a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi visiting Raj Ghat, the Cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi followed by an e-Rickshaw ride through Old Delhi. Drive past Red Fort, followed by a visit to Gandhi Smriti, the 16th Century tomb of Humayun, Qutab Minar and India Gate. Dinner at local restaurant or hotel.

Delhi to Jaipur

After an early breakfast at hotel, drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan state and known as Pink City for its trademark pink buildings. On arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy an Orientation Walk of Jaipur city and markets. In the evening, enjoy a Home hosted dinner with a local family in Jaipur.

Radisson City Centre Jaipur

Radisson City Centre Jaipur

The Country Inn & Suites by Carlson Jaipur hotel is located in a beautiful historical city. Standing eight stories tall with 100 designer Jaipur hotel rooms and a vibrant in-house shopping mall, the hotel can hold its own in a city renowned for great historical …

The Country Inn & Suites by Carlson Jaipur hotel is located in a beautiful historical city. Standing eight stories tall with 100 designer Jaipur hotel rooms and a vibrant in-house shopping mall, the hotel can hold its own in a city renowned for great historical buildings and monuments. One of the best hotels in Jaipur, the Country Inn is thoroughly modern, but no less personal. Through the dedicated services and thoughtful amenities, the hotel strives to put you at ease and meet your needs whether you are lodging in Jaipur for business or leisure travel.

  • Boutique(s)
  • Business Centre
  • Conference Facilities
  • Gym/Fitness Centre
  • Restaurant(s)

Photo gallery

india odyssey tours

Jaipur Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin a Jaipur city tour starting with a visit to Amber Fort. The Fort sits on top of a rugged hilltop and overlooks Lake Moata. The Fort is unique in that it's outside, an imposing and rugged defensive structure, is very different from its inside, a lavish interior influenced by both Hindu and Muslim styles. Return to the base of the fort by jeep. Continue to explore the city including a photo stop at Hawa Mahal (the Palace of Winds) as well as visit to the City Palace, museum and the Jantar Mantar Observatory. Later in the day, learn about Block Printing of Jaipur at Anokhi Musuem.

Dinner at local restaurant or hotel.

Jaipur to Ranthambore

After breakfast, depart for Sawai Madhopur and home to Ranthambore National Park. The park was originally the hunting reserve for the Maharaja of Jaipur and it was declared a game sanctuary in 1955. In 1972, the park came under Project Tiger and finally in 1980 it became a National Park. Ranthambore is one of the best locations to get a close view of the tigers. Upon arrival proceed to your resort for lunch. In late afternoon drive up to the entry gate of Ranthambhore Fort. Hike up to have an ariel view of Ranthambore National Park and hear stories of this historical Fort. Dinner at hotel.

Ranthambore Regency Hotel

Ranthambore Regency Hotel

Ranthambore Regency is set amidst 2.75 acres of lush green lawns. It is strategically located between the city of Sawai Madhopur and the national park. It is a 10 Km drive from the Ranthambore wildlife sanctuary. It retains all the modern technologies that a well-travelled …

Ranthambore Regency is set amidst 2.75 acres of lush green lawns. It is strategically located between the city of Sawai Madhopur and the national park. It is a 10 Km drive from the Ranthambore wildlife sanctuary. It retains all the modern technologies that a well-travelled person would expect. Guests at the Ranthambore Regency Hotel can enjoy jeep safari tours of Ranthambore National Park. It is a great location to find refuge and rest while touring in India. It is perfect for couples, business persons, and small families.

  • Air Conditioning
  • High Speed Internet at Fuchsia
  • Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
  • Swimming Pool

india odyssey tours

Ranthambore Safari

Enjoy an early morning game drive in Ranthambore National Park before returning to resort for Breakfast. Late afternoon enjoy another safari to the Park and arrive back before sunset. Ranthambore National Park is the perfect place to indulge in wildlife photography. Numerous animals are found in this park and it is common to spot antelopes, nilgai, sambhar and chital. Down by the lake and at the water holes many other animals can be sighted like the sloth bear, wild boar, porcupine, jackal, leopard, jungle cat and crocodile. A large number of birds are also found within the park and there are over 300 different species of birds here. But of course it is the tigers that everyone comes to see. And seeing these magnificent animals in the wild is a fantastic experience. Ranthambore is one of the best locations to get a close view. They are sighted almost daily somewhere in the park - especially early in the morning. The luckiest visitors may catch a glimpse of tigers hunting, and the females taking care of their cubs.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner at Hotel.

Ranthambore to Fatehpur Sikri to Agra

After breakfast depart for Agra. En route stop for lunch at local restaurant in Bharatpur. Agra is famous as being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. The architectural splendour of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid remainder of the capital in the 16th and early 17th centuries. On arrival transfer to hotel. In the evening enjoy a musical dance - drama show on the story of the Taj Mahal at a local theatre.

Courtyard by Marriott Agra

Courtyard by Marriott Agra

Treat yourself to 5-star elegance at the Courtyard Marriott Agra. Completely new and ideally located near the Taj Mahal and other renowned India attractions, the hotel is ideal for a business trip or a relaxing getaway. The spacious rooms and suites are among the largest …

Treat yourself to 5-star elegance at the Courtyard Marriott Agra. Completely new and ideally located near the Taj Mahal and other renowned India attractions, the hotel is ideal for a business trip or a relaxing getaway. The spacious rooms and suites are among the largest in Agra and offer 5-star amenities like high-speed Internet, luxury bedding, and flat-screen TVs. Guests staying at the hotel don't have to look far for great dining, thanks to the four-on-site options. Sample from the delicious buffet at MoMo Cafe, or MoMo to Go. Enjoy succulent Indian barbecue at ANISE or innovative cocktails at Onyx Bar. Meetings and events at the hotel are extraordinary, the expansive outdoor lawn provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor weddings, the indoor venues are as versatile as they are elegant. Stay fit with the fully-equipped gym, an outdoor pool and a spa. There is an Entertainment zone for unlimited fun.

  • Daily Housekeeping
  • Fitness Centre
  • Foreign Exchange
  • Meeting Facilities
  • Outdoor Pool

india odyssey tours

Agra Sightseeing

Enjoy an early morning yoga session. After breakfast, depart for sightseeing of Agra including a visiting to Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. The Taj Mahal, an awe inspiring structure built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife who died in childbirth. The tomb is the centrepiece of a 42-acre complex, which includes a mosque and a guest house, and is set in formal gardens bounded on three sides by a wall. It is said to have taken over 22 years to build using more than 20,000 men.

Evening is at leisure. Dinner at hotel.

Agra to Lucknow

After an early breakfast, check out and drive to Lucknow.

On arrival at Lucknow check in at hotel and enjoy time at leisure. Lucknow is both elusive and endearing. In the alleys of the old city area, you can still sample delicacies prepared by men who trace their lineage to Lucknow's legendary cooks. In Phulwari Galli or Flower Alley, women still embroider exquisite chikan saris and dresses exactly as before and you can still buy itra from the perfumers to the erstwhile Nawabs.

Late afternoon enjoy an orientation tour to learn about local cuisine followed by dinner.

Fairfield By Marriott Lucknow

Discover a new definition of style and sophistication at the Fairfield by Marriott Lucknow. Showcasing a uniquely convenient location in Lucknow, India's vibrant Vibhuti Khand business district, our brand new hotel will provide you with everything you require for a distinctive experience. Settle into your …

Discover a new definition of style and sophistication at the Fairfield by Marriott Lucknow. Showcasing a uniquely convenient location in Lucknow, India's vibrant Vibhuti Khand business district, our brand new hotel will provide you with everything you require for a distinctive experience. Settle into your impeccably appointed hotel room or suite, which offers a variety of four-star amenities like luxurious bedding, a flat-screen TV, an elegant marble bathroom, and an ergonomic workspace. Situated in Lucknow, this hotel is within 3 mi (5 km) of Farangi Mahal Islamic Centre of India, Kukrail Forest Reserve, and Ambedkar Memorial Park. Chakra Tirth Temple and Lucknow Zoo are also within 6 mi (10 km).

Lucknow Sightseeing

After breakfast, start a sightseeing tour with a visit to British Raj Residency followed by visit to the exquisitely decorated Rumi Darwaza also known as the Turkish Gate. Here you will see the magnificent Bara Imambara, the Husainabad Immambara, which reflect the quintessence of Avadhi architecture with its strong Persian influence. Visit the Picture Gallery which houses a collection of lifesize oil paintings of the Nawabs of Oudh (1882-1885) and see in the foreground the British style Clock Tower built in 1881. End the morning with a visit to Chattar Manzil, Moti Mahal.

In the afternoon explore local markets and learn about local textile work of "Chikankari". Dinner at local restaurant or at hotel.

Lucknow to Varanasi

After an early breakfast, check out and drive to India's most sacred city, Varanasi . Varanasi is the world's oldest continuously inhabited city and is regarded as a holy city by the Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. Upon arrival, check into hotel and enjoy time at leisure. In late afternoon join orientation walk followed by evening boat ride and witness Ganga aarti at Ghat. Dinner at hotel.

Rivatas By Ideal

Rivatas By Ideal

Nestled in the heart of Cantonment, Rivatas Hotel By Ideal is an ideal spot from which to discover Varanasi. With its location just 4km from the city center and 22km from the airport, the hotel offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations. Offering hotel …

Nestled in the heart of Cantonment, Rivatas Hotel By Ideal is an ideal spot from which to discover Varanasi. With its location just 4km from the city center and 22km from the airport, the hotel offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations. Offering hotel guests superior services and a broad range of amenities, Rivatas Hotel By Ideal is committed to ensuring that your stay is as comfortable as possible.

  • Babysitting Services
  • Currency Exchange
  • Laundry Service
  • Parking (Valet)

india odyssey tours

Varanasi Sightseeing

After breakfast at hotel proceed for an excursion to Sarnath, one of the main Buddhist centers in India. It is believed that Lord Buddha delivered his first speech after gaining Nirvana, or enlightenment here. Explore the Sarnath Museum, whose most famous exhibit is the "lion capital of Asoka": this statue of four lions guarding the four cardinal directions has become the emblem of modern India. Lunch at local Vegetarian restaurant.

In the afternoon explore the city and its temples including a visit to the Bharat Mata temple. Unlike other temples in India which all house deities of gods and goddesses, this is the only temple dedicated to Mother India. The most peculiar thing about the Bharat Mata Temple is that it houses a relief map of India, carved out of marble. Built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936. The statue of Bharat Mata is built in marble and is a model of undivided India, depicting the mountains, plains and oceans. Dinner at hotel.

Varanasi to Delhi

Early this morning proceed to ghats for a boat ride on the River Ganges. As your boat slowly drifts along the misty river you will witness so many fascinating sights - devotees having their ritual bath, the performing of religious ceremonies, or puja, to the rising sun, an ancient tradition that is still followed today. The shimmering red and gold hues on the waters of the river seem to cast a magical spell on the devout worshippers. The haunting sound of the chanting of mantras and hymns coupled with the sweet fragrance of incense fills the air with mystery and engulfs the senses of its spectators and offers an experience of ultimate bliss. Disembark and walk up the narrow cobbled lanes for a walk through the old city andstopping to check out Silk weaving of Varanasi. In the afternoon, transfer to Varanasi Airport for your flight to Delhi. On arrival in Delhi you will be met and transferred to hotel. Final Dinner at hotel.

Radisson Blu Dwarka

Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Dwarka welcomes guests with its 209 contemporary, modern rooms and suites, superior services and wide range of on-site dining options. From a business centre to chic terrace pool and gym, this New Delhi hotel's amenities are ideal for business and …

Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Dwarka welcomes guests with its 209 contemporary, modern rooms and suites, superior services and wide range of on-site dining options. From a business centre to chic terrace pool and gym, this New Delhi hotel's amenities are ideal for business and leisure guests. Hotel is located 15 kms away from the Indra Gandhi International Airport,11 kms away from the Domestic Airport, 13 kms is Delhi Cantt Railway station, Dwarka Metro station is 5 mins walking,Trade Fair ground Pragati Maidan is 27 Kms away.It is 30 mins drive to the city centre. Rooms are equipped with state of art amenities and sophisticated furnishings,room features include cliamte control,in room telephone,work station,electronic safes,LCD TV with satellite channels,Coffee and Tea maker, electronic safe,Hair Dryer,Mini- Bar..

Depart Delhi

Transfer to Delhi Airport for your onward flight.

Other Information

Departures and prices:, price includes:.

  • English-speaking Tour Guide for full duration of trip
  • Arrival and Departure Airport Transfers in Delhi
  • 2 nights first-class accommodations in Delhi
  • 2 nights first-class accommodations in Jaipur
  • 2 nights first-class accommodations in Ranthamore
  • 2 nights first-class accommodations in Agra
  • 2 nights first-class accommodations in Lucknow
  • 2 nights first-class accommodations in Varanasi
  • 1 nights first-class accommodations in Delhi
  • Guided excursions as mentioned
  • 2 Safaris to Ranthambore National Park by shared canter with Naturalist
  • All entrance fees for sightseeing visited
  • Transportation by private, air conditioned vehicle
  • Flight from Varanasi to Delhi in economy class
  • Goway water bottle
  • Breakfast daily (excluding day 1), 4 Lunches, 12 Dinners

PRICE EXCLUDES:

  • Travel insurance
  • International/domestic airfares and airfare taxes unless indicated in itinerary
  • Meals & beverages unless specifically indicated in the itinerary
  • Items of a personal nature

DOCUMENTATION:

For visits to Ranthambore National Park, scanned colour copies of passports are required and must be submitted one month prior to departure.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please enquire.

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India Odyssey Tours - 1 Day Delhi Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Cultural and History Tour of India | Small Group Tour

Small group tour for mature and senior couples and solo travellers to India. Visiting Delhi and the red fort , Jaipur, Agra and so much more over 22 days explore the world of the Mughal .

From $8,102 USD

Departing Nov, Mar

India seniors tours

  • 1. Spend a night on a houseboat amidst emerald green tropical vegetation and exotic fauna.
  • 2. Visit the wondrous Taj Mahal with its superb view.
  • 3. Ride an elephant to and from the top of the hill on which the Amber Fort is situated.
  • 4. Experience Chokhi Dhan, an ethnic village with live music, astrology, games, folk dances, and puppet shows.

Cultural and History Tour of India | Small Group Tour itinerary

  • Departure Dates

Cultural and History Tour of India

Odyssey offers easy, convenient, and relaxed escorted small group tours across India and beyond into the Indian Sub continent. We explore India's natural beauty, its ancient, and Imperial heritage, its World Heritage Sites, and world famous cities, all with some truly spectacular scenery along the way of people, culture and landscapes. This and more is all waiting to be explored on one of Odyssey’s small group tours of India, designed for the senior traveller, and led by experienced, and enthusiastic like minded people.

Explore the enchanting tapestry of India with Odyssey's small group tour designed for mature and senior couples and solo travelers. Bounded by the majestic Himalayan ranges in the north and adorned with endless stretches of golden beaches, India unveils a vivid kaleidoscope of landscapes, historic treasures like the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort, royal cities such as Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and Madras, a spectrum of colorful people, and a rich cultural heritage.

Odyssey presents fully escorted India tours tailored for intimate groups of fewer than 12 people, guiding you through the splendid destinations and heritage sites of Jaipur, Agra, Varanasi, Cochin, and Mumbai. Our Our 22-day tour is a feast for the eyes and spirit, providing a safe and enriching travel experience.

India, a land of immense diversity and extremes, boasts glacial heights in the north, arid plains in the west, and palm-fringed tropical beaches in the south. With a population surpassing a billion, India embraces over 18 official languages and a myriad of dialects, reflecting a rich cultural mosaic that changes with the diverse terrain. Delve into India's influential history, from the era of the Mughals to British rule, as well as its centuries-long spice trade with Arabs, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Our escorted tour in India unfolds the country's natural beauty, vibrant spice markets, and tantalizing cuisine. Witness UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the breathtaking Elephant Cave Temples off Mumbai's eastern shore, glide through the backwaters of Kerala, and explore a spectrum of destinations, from Northern India to Southern India. Immerse yourself in this unique travel experience, unraveling the layers of India's past and savoring its diverse and captivating present.

India Tour Itinerary

India is by no measure a monolithic culture or state, but a diverse collection of historic cities and nations each with their own distinct histories, language and culture. We offer a safe way to travel and explore this amazing country. explores these histories and distinctions, with each destination telling part of the rich and complex story that makes up contemporary India. Our small group tour visits the India's golden triangle (Agra, Delhi and Jaipur) and much more.

Jaipur the legendary ‘Pink City’, epitomizes the beauty and grandeur of historic India. The city takes its name from its founder, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, one of 18th century India’s most enlightened monarchs. Fascinated with astronomy, mathematics and science, Jai Singh worked with the Bengali architect and scholar Vidyadhar Bhattacharya to create Northern India’s first planned city, following a grid system. The city was later repainted completely in pale pink (traditionally the colour of hospitality) by Maharaja Ram Singh to welcome the Prince of Wales (later Edward VIII) in 1876. Today, all residents of the Old City are required by law to keep their buildings painted in pale salmon pink, upholding the historic image of the city.

Agra in India's central region, is the most city famous for the nation's most recognizable landmark, the Taj Mahal . The city was founded in 1501 by Sultan Sikander Lodi, as the capital of the Delhi sultanate. Just over 20 years later, Emperor Babur defeated the last Lodi Sultan at Panipat, 90 km to the north, and the Mughal dynasty was founded, expanding over swathes of northern India. Agra was the capital of the Mughal Empire during the reigns of Jahangir, Akbar, and Shah Mahan. It was during this period that the city reached its peak of magnificence, with the grand structures of the Taj Mahal and the other mausoleums built along the banks of the Yamuna River.

Varanasi also known as the 'city of lights', is one of the world's oldest inhabited cities. Colourful, intense and mystical, it is the spiritual capital of India and the country’s holiest Hindu city, located on the banks of the river Ganges in Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi is a city of pilgrimage for many Hindu and Jain people. Known as the city of Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism, it is auspicious to die in Varanasi, as those who die here will be liberated from the cycle of reincarnation. For travellers, visiting Varanasi is a cultural experience like no other and the most interesting part of being in the city is just observing what takes place around and the many rituals going on throughout the day.

Cochin (Kochi)

Cochin located near India's southern tip, has long been among India’s most cosmopolitan cities. A center of trade and cultural exchange, Kochi has been shaped by a number of cultures: Indian, Chinese, Jewish, Portuguese, Dutch and British. Kochi spent parts of its history under various colonial rulers, beginning with the Portuguese in 1500 until 1663, when it passed to Dutch rule. Under the Dutch Kochi enjoyed its greatest prosperity, with wealth shared between the city’s Hindu majority and Muslim, Jewish, and Christian minorities. Kochi was then ruled by the British from 1795 to 1947, at which point it joined independent India.

Mumbai (formerly Bombay) is one of the world’s great metropolises, it embodies India at its most vibrant and contrasted, where Bollywood stars and finance billionaires live in luxury, and those left behind populate Dharavi, the world’s largest slum. Mumbai is the energetic heart of modern India, with its role as the financial, commercial, and entertainment capital of the subcontinent. The city of Mumbai has an ancient history. Settlements here date back to 1000 BC, with the city being a center of maritime trade with Persia and Egypt. In 1348 the city was captured by the Muslim Sultan of Gujarat, then, in 1534 it was ceded to the Portuguese, before coming under British rule as part of the dowry of the Portuguese princess Catherine of Braganza, marrying Charles II in 1661. Today, Mumbai has a population of around 19.98 million, making it the seventh most populous city in the world and the second-biggest in India. As the richest city in India, Mumbai draws migrants from around the nation, seeking opportunities in finance, commerce, or hoping to find fame in Bollywood, the world’s biggest film industry.

Delhi embodies the synthesis between historic and modern India, featuring a frantic mix of medieval architecture, broad avenues, and modern design. Few cities have been built and rebuilt as many times as Delhi, with at least eight independent cities being established here, each leaving its ruins in the patchwork of the modern city. The earliest reference to a city in the Delhi area was made in the Mahabharata, with Delhi supposed to be Indraprastha, the legendary city of the Pandavas. Throughout its history Delhi has been ruled by numerous successive kingdoms, and has served the purpose of a religious, economic, and political hubs, and at one point a bastion against the invading Mongols. As the capital city, Delhi is home to important centers of religious, cultural and economic life and is a popular starting point for visitors to India.

Odyssey's India Tour Highlights

One of the highlights of our trip to India is a journey to the Amber Fort, in the heart of Jaipur in North India. In Jaipur, we also make time for one of the essential sights of India, the pink rose Maharaja's City Palace.

The Taj Mahal is another highlight of our trip , a favourite among Indian holiday destinations, but with the help of local guides and a local tour operator we also make time for unique experiences, lesser known archaeological and historical wonders off the tourist trail. One of these is Varanasi. Located on the west bank of the Ganges, this is India’s holiest Hindu city. The 90 or so ghats – steep steps leading to the banks of the river – define the region’s identity. While here, we take a ferry pilgrimage along the river early in the morning to watch the sun rise over the Ganges.

We also experience the spectacular Elephanta Cave Temples off Mumbai’s eastern shore on a guided tour. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the cave temples are chiselled into the rocky cliff and dedicated to the god Shiva.

In south India, the city of Kochi (Cochin) is a highly cosmopolitan trading centre for spices and seafood. The capital of Kerala, this city has an extraordinary heritage born from influences of Dutch, Portuguese, French, and British colonialism. Surrounded by palm groves, green fields, inland lakes, and backwaters, Cochin and Kerala have enchanted visitors from around the world for centuries.

Other highlights of our cultural tour include learning about the 3,000-year history of Delhi . In Delhi, we visit its most iconic monuments and places, including the Red Fort, Raj Ghat, and the colourful shopping bazaars. We also spend a night on a houseboat amidst emerald green tropical vegetation.

You can learn more about India with Odyssey's country profile, where all other escorted group tours departures are listed as well, for example the short version of this tour.

For more details about this guided tour, please click the ‘Top 5’ or ‘Itinerary’ buttons above! If you’re keen to experience this tour, please call or send an email. Or, to book, simply fill in the form on the right hand side of this page.

Articles about India

The following list of articles are either published by Odyssey Traveller or are carefully selected external sources to maximise senior traveller's knowledge and enjoyment of India when visiting:

  • India’s Mughal Empire
  • Clash of the Mughals and the Marathas
  • History of British Rule in India
  • Discovering India
  • Top 20 World Heritage Sites You Must Visit
  • 7 Wonders of India (World Atlas)
  • New Seven Wonders of the World (Travel Channel)
  • 7 Things You Didn’t Know About the Qutub Minar (National Geographic Traveller India)
  • Incredible India

Taj Mahal. India

Day 1: Delhi

Accommodation: 2 nights at Royal Plaza or similar.

Upon arrival in Delhi , we transfer to our hotel individually. Our tour begins with a welcome dinner and program orientation at a specialty restaurant. (D)

Day 2: Delhi

Accommodation: Royal Plaza or similar.

Today we begin exploring Delhi, the capital of India, a metropolis of great importance to the nation, serving as both the gateway to the country and the seat of its political power. It provides an intoxicating mix of the ancient and the modern. In its 3,000-year history, Delhi has been the site of 7 different cities. Its strategic location has long defined it as the seat of power. Delhi is a city waiting to be explored. (B,D)

Day 3: Jaipur

Accommodation: 2 nights at Diggi Palace or similar.

After breakfast, we drive to Jaipur (265 km / 5 hours drive). After checking in to our hotel, we enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure before heading out for dinner at a local restaurant.

The capital of Rajasthan was built in pink by the notable astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh. It was designed in honour of a visiting prince in the 18th century, and, ever since, has retained this colour. We visit Maharaja’s City Palace, the pink rose of the residential and business areas. (B,D)

Day 4: Jaipur

Accommodation: Diggi Palace or similar.

After breakfast, we continue to explore the Pink City with our tour guide on an excursion to Amber Fort, situated just outside the city, where we ride on elephant to the top of the hill on which the fort is situated. The Fort Palace of Amber was the Kachhawahas citadel until 1727, when their capital moved to Jaipur. Successive rulers continued to come here on important occasions to seek the blessings of the family deity, Shila Devi. The citadel was established in 1592 by Man Singh I on the remains of an old 11th-century fort, but the various buildings added by Jai Singh I (r. 1621-67) is what constitutes its magnificent centrepiece.

We have an afternoon sightseeing tour of the City Palace in the heart of Jaipur, known for its blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Not far away is the Central Museum. Occupying the Heart of Jai Singh II’s city, the City Palace has been home to the rulers of Jaipur since the first half of the 18th century. The sprawling complex is a superb blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, with open, airy Mughal-style public buildings leading to private apartments. Today, part of the complex is open to the public as the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, popularly known as the City Palace Museum. Its treasures, which include miniature paintings, manuscripts, Mughal carpets, musical instruments, royal costumes, and weaponry, provide a splendid introduction to Jaipur’s princely past, and its fascinating arts and crafts.

Our next stop is Hawa Mahal. A whimsical addition to Rajasthan’s rich architectural vocabulary, the fanciful Hawa Mahal or “Palace of Winds” was erected in 1799 by the aesthete Sawai Pratap Singh (r.1778-1803). Its ornate pink facade has become an icon for the city. The tiered, Baroque-like composition of projecting windows and balconies with perforated screens is 5 stories high but just 1 room deep, its walls not more than 20 centimetres (8 inches) thick, built of lime and mortar. The structure was designed in this way to enable the veiled ladies of the harem to observe unnoticed the lively street scenes below. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the Hawa Mahal, seen from afar, looks like the mukut (crown) that often adorns the god’s head. Visitors can climb up the winding ramp to the top, and a gateway towards the west leads into the complex. Within are administrative offices and the Archaeological Musuem, which houses a small collection of sculptures and local handicrafts, including some utensils dating back to the 2nd century BC.

We continue to Jantar Mantar. Of the five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh II, the one in Jaipur is the largest and best preserved: the others are in Delhi, Ujjain, Mathura, and Varanasi. A keen astronomer himself, Jai Singh kept abreast of the latest astronomical studies in the world, and was most inspired by the work of Mirza Ulugh Beg, the astronomer-king of Samarkand. Built between 1728 and 1734, the observatory has been described as “the most realistic and logical landscape in stone.” Its 16 instruments resemble a giant sculptural composition. Some of the instruments are still used to forecast how hot the summer months will be, along with the expected date of arrival, duration, and intensity of the monsoon, and the possibility of floods and famine. (B,D)

Day 5: Agra

Accommodation: 1 night at The Wyndham Agra or similar.

After breakfast we depart for Agra (233 km / 5 hours drive). En route we stop for lunch at Bharatpur and, time permitting, we will stop at Keoladeo Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary before continuing to visit Fatehpur Sikri. An old deserted town from the Mughal Dynasty, Fatehpur Sikri, built in red sandstone in honour of Saint Salim Chisti. Chisti foretold the birth of 3 sons to Emperor Akbar. The town is an example of robust stability combined with much originality. Each important edifice here represents a style in itself. Notable among them is the Diwan-e-Khas, entirely unique in its concept, having a tall vaulted room with an intricately-carved central pillar supporting a platform that once held the emperor’s throne. The airy Panch Mahal, a 5-storied structure rising in pyramidal fashion, was probably used by the ladies of the court. Set like a jewel in a courtyard of pink sandstone, it is the finest building here, with the marble Tomb of Salim Chisti enclosed by finely carved, lacy marble screens. The Buland Darwaza, an imposing gateway 54 metres high, was built to commemorate Akbar’s Aligarh. The tomb is a combination of Muslim and Hindu architectural styles. We arrive in Agra in time for dinner and check in at our hotel.

Agra is famous as being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. The city is also famous for its craftsmen and their superb inlay work on marble and soapstone, carpets, gold thread embroidery, and leather shoes. Also of interest are the Agra Fort, Sikandra, Ram Bagh, and Itmad-Ud-Daulah. Thirty five kilometres away are the imperial ruins of the Mughal city, Fatehpur Sikri. Agra is an old city and it is said that its name was derived from Agrabanad, a forest that finds mention in the epic Mahabharata. (B,D)

Day 6: Agra - Varanasi

Accommodation: Overnight train.

Today we visit the wondrous Taj Mahal , where we take in the superb structure and views. Taj Mahal, the architectural modern day wonder of the world, is a fine example of the fusion of many architectural styles. We continue with a visit to Agra Fort, designed and built by Akbar in 1565 A.D. It is constructed with barricaded walls of red sandstone and it houses the beautiful Pearl Mosque and numerous palaces including the Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Am, Macchhi Bhawan, Nagina Masjid, Meena Bazar, Moti Masjid, Sheesh Mahal, and Musamman Burj, from where Taj Mahal is visible in all its beauty. Later in the evening we will have an early dinner followed by a transfer to the train station where we will board our overnight train to Varanasi.

The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. Its perfect proportions and exquisite craftsmanship have been described as “a vision, a dream, a poem, a wonder.” This sublime garden-tomb, an image of the Islamic garden of paradise, cost nearly 41 million rupees and 500 kilos (1,102 lbs) of gold. About 20,000 workers laboured for 12 years to complete it in 1643.

Situated on the West Bank of the Yamuna, Agra Fort was built by Emperor Akbar between 1565 and 1573. Its imposing red sandstone ramparts form a crescent along the riverfront, and encompass an enormous complex of courtly buildings, ranging in style from the early eclecticism of Akbar to the sublime elegance of Shah Jahan. The barracks to the north are 19th-century British additions. A deep moat, once filled with water from the Yamuna, surrounds the fort.

Day 7: Varanasi

Accommodation: 2 nights at Hotel Hindusthan or similar.

Upon arrival at the Varanasi train station, we are transferred to our hotel to freshen up. After lunch, we have a half-day sightseeing tour of the city including visiting the Ghats and attending the evening Aarti ritual at the Ghats for the river Ganges.

Also known as Kashi (“the City of Light”), or as Benares, Varanasi is situated on the west bank of the Ganges and is India’s holiest Hindu City, with a spiritual and religious legacy that goes back nearly 3,000 years. This is the city of Shiva, the foremost among the 12 places where the god burrowed and then burst into the sky in a fiery pillar of light (Jyotirlinga). Sanctified by Shiva’s all-pervading presence and the sacred Ganges, the 90 or so ghats along the river define the life and identify of Varanasi. Stretching from the southern Asi Ghat to the northern Adi Keshava Ghat, close to the Malviya Bridge, the Ghat covers more than 6 kilometres. Lined with temples and shrines, the ghats reverberate with the endless cycle of Hindu religious practice, from daily rituals to profound rites of passage. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Varanasi

Accommodation: Hotel Hindusthan or similar.

Today, we take an early morning boat ride on the Ganges, a ferry pilgrimage from Ghat to Ghat. People bathe early in the morning to offer prayers to the rising sun. The two cremation ghats are Manikarniks and Harishchandra, where funeral pyres burn day and night. Hindus believe that to die in Kashi and to be cremated on banks of the Ganges is to attain release from the cycle of birth and death.

After our boat ride, we return to the hotel for breakfast, and then depart for our tour of Sarnath, the buried Buddhist city where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Sarnath was a renewed school of learning from 6th century BC to 12th century AD. Later on, we visit the ruins, the stupa, the Buddhist temple, and the museum. (B,D)

Day 9: Mumbai

Accommodation: 2 nights at Fariyas Hotel or similar.

Today we fly to Mumbai and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

The capital of Maharashtra is India’s most dynamic, cosmopolitan, and crowded city. The country’s financial centre and its busiest port, Mumbai is also home to the world’s biggest cinema industry, popularly known as Bollywood. Some 16 million people, from billionaire tycoons to homeless pavement dwellers, live in this teeming megalopolis. (B,D)

Day 10: Mumbai

Accommodation: Fariyas Hotel or similar.

In the morning, we enjoy an Elephanta Excursion. The rest of the day is spent doing sightseeing in Mumbai, where we have the chance to visit the Prince of Wales Museum and The Gateway to India, among other culturally significant sites.

The Elephanta cave temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located on an island off Mumbai’s eastern shore, the 6th-century AD Elephanta cave temples, chiselled into a rocky cliff and dedicated to Shiva, contain some great masterpieces of Indian sculpture. Originally called Ghaarapuri or “Fort-City,” the island was renamed Elephanta by the Portuguese after a huge stone elephant that once stood here. (B,D)

Day 11: Mysore

Accommodation: 2 nights at Lalitha Mahal Hotel or similar.

After breakfast, we take a flight to Bangalore, and on arrival transfer by road to Mysore (145 km / approx. 3.5 hours drive). On arrival, we check in at our hotel. (B,D)

Day 12: Mysore

Accommodation: Lalitha Mahal Hotel or similar.

Today we enjoy a full day sightseeing. We will visit the Mysore Palace of the Maharaja. Built in 1911-12, the palace is a harmonious synthesis of the Hindu and Saracenic styles of architecture with archways, domes, turrets, colonnades, and sculptures that are magnificent. We visit the art gallery, drive up to Chamundi Hill to see Chamundeshwari Temple, and a panoramic view of Mysore. On the way back, we see the Nandi Bull.

Day 13: Wayanad

Accommodation: 2 nights at Vythiri Resort or similar.

After breakfast we drive to Wayanad (136 km / 4.5 hours drive). Upon arrival we transfer to the hotel.

Day 14: Wayanad

Accommodation: Vythiri Resort or similar.

We visit Pookat Lake and nearby Nilgiri wildlife reserve. Rich in biodiversity, the sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which has been established with the specific objective of conserving the biological heritage of the region. The sanctuary is rich in flora and fauna. The management lays emphasis on scientific conservation with due consideration for the general lifestyle of the tribal members and others who live in and around the forest. Elephant, spotted deer, bison, tiger, cheetah, and wild bear can all be seen here.

Day 15: Thrissur

After breakfast we drive to Thrissur (195 km / approx. 6 hours drive). Upon arrival we transfer to the hotel.

Day 16: Alleppy

Accommodation: Houseboat.

After breakfast, we depart to Alleppey (140 km / approx. 6 hours drive). Upon arrival we board a houseboat where lunch will be served. Later we will stop at Champakulum village to see the snake boat and the market here. Dinner will also be on board while enjoying the natural scenery.

Day 17: Kumarakom

Accommodation: 1 night at Backwater Ripples Retreat or similar.

In the morning we disembark and drive to Kumarakom for an overnight stay at an Auyrveda resort where we will learn more about this traditional Indian medicine. We visit the Punnathur Kotta elephant park, regarded as one of the largest elephant parks in the world, and Guruvayoor Temple, if time permits.

Day 18: Periyar

Accommodation: 2 nights at Spice Village or similar.

In the morning, we drive to Periyar (138 km / approx. 3 hours drive). On arrival in Periyar we check in to our hotel and take some time to explore the nearby area. We will visit Thekkady town as well as a spice plantation where we will be accompanied by a local expert guide on spices. The area is also known for its tea plantation (s).

Day 19: Periyar

Accommodation: Spice Village or similar.

We enjoy a morning boat ride on Periyar Lake and later take a nature walk led by a naturalist. The construction of the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river at Thekkady in 1895 submerged large tracts of land and created a huge lake, covering an area of 26 square kilometres (10 sq miles). Years later, in 1935, the then Maharaja of Travancore declared 600 square kilometres (232 sq miles) of forest surrounding the lake a wildlife sanctuary – – Periyar National Park . The Periyar Lake now forms the nucleus of the ecosystem of the sanctuary, which, over the years, has been expanded to 777 square kilometres (300 sq miles). Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978, the sanctuary is a rare example of human interference having enhanced rather than damaged an ecosystem.

Day 20: Cochin

Accommodation: The Killians or similar.

After breakfast we drive to Cochin (154 km / approx. 4 hours drive). Upon arrival we check in at our hotel and explore the nearby area on foot.

Kochi, better known as Cochin , is Kerala’s most cosmopolitan city. It is also its main trading centre for spices and seafood. Built around a saltwater lagoon of the Arabian Sea, Kochi is in fact a collection of narrow islands and peninsulas. While mainland Ernakulam boasts of concrete shopping malls and glitzy apartment buildings, Mattancherry and Fort Koch have an old world charm, with their blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and English bungalows and quaint narrow streets. The scenic location of Kochi’s natural harbour, surrounded by palm groves, green fields, inland lakes, and backwaters, has enchanted visitors from across the globe for centuries. Cochin is a natural harbour created by the famed underwater Malabar mud-banks whose quality ensures that the rougher seas are outside and the calmer waters are within the harbour. Vasco-de-Gama placed this city on the world map. It has a Jewish synagogue, Portuguese churches, mosques and Hindu temples.

Day 21: Cochin

Today we have a full day sightseeing in Cochin visiting the Dutch Palace, built by the Portuguese and known for its murals, depicting scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, as well as the dresses and palanquins used by Cochin’s erstwhile rulers. We will see Koonan Kurishu Shrine, which is a small chapel. We will also see the Jewish Synagogue, which has a number of copper plates inscribed in the Hebrew script, as well as Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, the oldest to be constructed by Europeans in India, Santa Cruz Basilica with a beautifully painted ceiling, and Chinese Fishing Nets near the harbor’s entrance of Cochin.

In the evening we enjoy a performance of the traditional dance of the Kerala region, called Kathakali, which is a highly stylized classical Indian dance-drama, with elaborate make-up and costumes, detailed gestures, and well-defined body movements and complementary percussion.

The Mattancherry Palace, constructed by the Portuguese in the mid-1550s, was given to the ruler of Cochin as a token of goodwill in exchange for trading rights. It was later renovated by the Dutch, and so gained the misnomer: Dutch Palace. The 2-storied structure, built around a courtyard with a small shrine to the goddess Bhagavati, is today a museum with a rare collection of murals and royal artefacts. In the central Durbar Hall, where coronation ceremonies were once held, is the portrait gallery of the Kochi rulers; it also displays palanquins and textiles. The adjacent bedrooms and chambers are renowned for their fine 17th-century murals, representative of Kerala’s temple art, painted in rich, warm shades of red, yellow, black, and white. They depict religious and mythological themes as well as episodes from the Ramayana.

St. Francis Church was established in the early 1500’s by the Portuguese (who called it Santo Antonio). It is one of India’s earliest European churches, with a simple façade that became the model for later churches. Taken over by the Dutch and then the British, it is today affiliated with the church of South India. Within are numerous gravestones with inscriptions, the earliest a Portuguese epitaph dated 1562. Vasco da Gama was buried here in 1524 until his body was taken to Portugal 14 years later.

Fort Kochi is Kochi’s natural harbour, created by a massive flood in 1341. It attracted imperialists and merchants from all over the world. In the 16th century, the Portuguese built a fort here, which was later occupied by the Dutch and then the British. Today, this quarter, with its mixture of architectural styles, encapsulates Fort Kochi’s tumultuous history. The most important building here is St. Francis Church, erected by the Portuguese in 1502 and considered to be among the oldest churches built by Europeans in India.

This area has now been declared a Heritage Zone to preserve its many historic buildings.

Day 22: Cochin

Your India holiday tour concludes today after breakfast. If you’re departing later in the evening a late check-out can be arranged at the hotel.

  • Itineraries may change if flight schedules, site availability, and other inclusions have to be amended prior to departure.

Includes / Excludes

What’s included in our Tour

  • 19 nights of hotel accommodation.
  • 1 night onboard houseboat.
  • 1 night of rail travel with shared facilities.
  • 21 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 21 dinners.
  • Transport in comfortable and modern coaches.
  • All excursions and entrance fees as indicated.
  • Gratuities and necessary tips.
  • 2 internal flights and taxes.
  • Services of Tour Leader for the duration of tour.

What’s not included in our Tour

  • International airfares and departure taxes.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Visa service and fee
  • Items of a personal nature such as telephone calls and laundry.

Participants must be able to carry their own luggage, climb and descend stairs, be in good health, mobile and able to participate in 3-5 hours of physical activity per day, the equivalent of walking / hiking up to 8 kilometers per day on uneven ground.

07 November 2024

Ends 29 November 2024 • 23 days

Change departure date

By booking two travellers sharing a room you save $2995 per person.

Payment Type

You can reserve your spot by paying a $1,000 pp deposit, for full details please see our Terms & Conditions .

Prices are per person and valid until 30th December 2024.

Make it a private tour

Easing your journey.

Crossing international borders with restrictions

The list of requirements to travel internationally has changed and will continue to change for several years. Odyssey is here to assist you in managing your way through these requirements:

For more information see our Crossing international borders with restrictions page.

Book With Confidence

If less than 30 days before your tour starts you are unable to travel as a result of Government travel restrictions, Odyssey Traveller will assist you with a date change, provide you with a credit or process a refund for your booking less any non-recoverable costs.

See Terms and conditions for details.

Peace of Mind Travel

The safety of our travellers, tour leader, local guide and support staff has always been our top priority and with the new guidelines for public health and safety for keeping safe for destinations around the world, we’ve developed our plan to give you peace of mind when travelling with us.

See Peace of Mind Travel for details.

Reading List Download PDF

India: a history.

Fully revised with forty thousand new words that take the reader up to present-day India, John Keay’s India: A History spans five millennia in a sweeping narrative that tells the story of the peoples of the subcontinent, from their ancient beginnings in the valley of the Indus to the events in the region today. In charting the evolution of the rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and peoples that comprise the modern nations of Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, Keay weaves together insights from a variety of scholarly fields to create a rich historical narrative. Wide-ranging and authoritative, India: A History is a compelling epic portrait of one of the world’s oldest and most richly diverse civilizations.

India: In Word and Image, Revised, Expanded and Updated

Eric Meola (Photographer), Bharati Mukherjee (Introduction)

Gorgeously jaw-dropping, India has been beautifully redesigned with 32 additional pages of glorious photos shot by Eric Meola since India was first published.

This revised and expanded version of Eric Meola's 2008 India takes the reader on a journey through Mumbai, Rajasthan, Agra, Dungarpur, along desert roads, to the Ganges water's edge, including spectacular ruins, the Taj Mahal, and the Festival of Elephants, capturing the spectacle and vibrant colors of these ancient regions.

INDIA is rapidly becoming one of the pre-eminent leaders of the twenty-first century. For more than a decade, Eric Meola has returned repeatedly to India, photographing the people, temples, landscapes, architecture, celebrations, and art of this uniquely exuberant and incredibly diverse country. Meola's journeys took him from the Himalayas and monasteries in the North to the temples of Tamil Nadu in the South, from the color and pageantry of Rajasthan in the West to the tea plantations of Darjeeling in the East. Over 200 photographs (edited from more than 25,000 images) will fill this beautifully printed, large-format book. The photographs will be accompanied by dozens of essays, stories, and poems by contemporary and classical Indian writers.

Stanley Wolpert

This new edition brings Stanley Wolpert's brilliantly succinct and accessible introduction to India completely up to date for a new generation of readers, travelers, and students. In crisp detail, Wolpert gives a panoramic overview of the continent on which the world's most fascinating ancient civilization gave birth to one of its most complex modern democratic nations. India now includes new sections on the country's current global economic development, the recent national elections, and on its international relations, including those with Pakistan, China, Sri Lanka, and the United States, India's new strategic global partner.

India: A Sacred Geography

Diana L. Eck

India: A Sacred Geography is the culmination of more than a decade's work from the renowned Harvard scholar Diana L. Eck. The book explores the sacred places of India, taking the reader on an extraordinary trip through the beliefs and history of this rich and profound place, as well as providing a basic introduction to Hindu religious ideas and how those ideas influence our understanding of the modern sense of "India" as a nation.

A Passage to India

E.M. Forster

Among the greatest novels of the twentieth century and the basis for director David Lean’s Academy Award-winning film, A Passage to India tells of the clash of cultures in British India after the turn of the century. In exquisite prose, Forster reveals the menace that lurks just beneath the surface of ordinary life, as a common misunderstanding erupts into a devastating affair.

The End of Karma: Hope and Fury Among India's Young

Somini Sengupta

A penetrating, personal look at contemporary India―the world’s largest democracy at a moment of transition.

Somini Sengupta emigrated from Calcutta to California as a young child in 1975. Returning thirty years later as the bureau chief for The New York Times, she found a vastly different country: one defined as much by aspiration and possibility―at least by the illusion of possibility―as it is by the structures of sex and caste. The End of Karma is an exploration of this new India through the lens of young people from different worlds: a woman who becomes a Maoist rebel; a brother charged for the murder of his sister, who had married the “wrong” man; a woman who opposes her family and hopes to become a police officer. Driven by aspiration―and thwarted at every step by state and society―they are making new demands on India’s democracy for equality of opportunity, dignity for girls, and civil liberties. Sengupta spotlights these stories of ordinary men and women, weaving together a groundbreaking portrait of a country in turmoil.

India: Brief History of a Civilization

Thomas R. Trautmann

India: Brief History of a Civilization, Second Edition, provides a brief overview of a very long period, allowing students to acquire a mental map of the entire history of Indian civilization in a short book. Most comprehensive histories devote a few chapters to the early history of India and an increasing number of pages to the more recent period, giving an impression that early history is mere background and that Indian civilization finds its fulfillment in the nation-state. Thomas R. Trautmann believes that the deep past lives on and is a valuable resource for understanding the present day and for creating a viable future. The result is a book that is short enough to read in a few sittings, but comprehensive in coverage--5,000 years of India in brief.

Incarnations: A History of India in Fifty Lives

Sunil Khilnani

For all of India’s myths, its sea of stories and moral epics, Indian history remains a curiously unpeopled place. In Incarnations, Sunil Khilnani fills that space, recapturing the human dimension of how the world’s largest democracy came to be. His trenchant portraits of emperors, warriors, philosophers, film stars, and corporate titans―some famous, some unjustly forgotten―bring feeling, wry humor, and uncommon insight to dilemmas that extend from ancient times to our own. As he journeys across the country and through its past, Khilnani uncovers more than just history. In rocket launches and ayurvedic call centers, in slum temples and Bollywood studios, in California communes and grimy ports, he examines the continued, and often surprising, relevance of the men and women who have made India―and the world―what it is. We encounter the Buddha, “the first human personality”; the ancient Sanskrit linguist who inspires computer programmers today; the wit and guile of India’s Machiavelli; and the medieval poets who mocked rituals and caste. In the twentieth century, Khilnani sets Gandhi and other political icons of the independence era next to actresses, photographers, and entrepreneurs. Incarnations is an ideal introduction to India―and a provocative and sophisticated reinterpretation of its history.

The Chaos of Empire: The British Raj and the Conquest of India

The popular image of the British Raj—an era of efficient but officious governors, sycophantic local functionaries, doting amahs, blisteringly hot days and torrid nights—chronicled by Forster and Kipling is a glamorous, nostalgic, but entirely fictitious. In this dramatic revisionist history, Jon Wilson upends the carefully sanitized image of unity, order, and success to reveal an empire rooted far more in violence than in virtue, far more in chaos than in control.

Through the lives of administrators, soldiers, and subjects—both British and Indian—The Chaos of Empire traces Britain’s imperial rule from the East India Company’s first transactions in the 1600s to Indian Independence in 1947. The Raj was the most public demonstration of a state’s ability to project power far from home, and its perceived success was used to justify interventions around the world in the years that followed. But the Raj’s institutions—from law courts to railway lines—were designed to protect British power without benefiting the people they ruled. This self-serving and careless governance resulted in an impoverished people and a stifled society, not a glorious Indian empire.

Jon Wilson’s new portrait of a much-mythologized era finally and convincingly proves that the story of benign British triumph was a carefully concocted fiction, here thoroughly and totally debunked.

Behind the Beautiful Forevers: Life, Death, and Hope in a Mumbai Undercity

Katherine Boo

In this brilliant, breathtaking book by Pulitzer Prize winner Katherine Boo, a bewildering age of global change and inequality is made human through the dramatic story of families striving toward a better life in Annawadi, a makeshift settlement in the shadow of luxury hotels near the Mumbai airport. As India starts to prosper, the residents of Annawadi are electric with hope. Abdul, an enterprising teenager, sees “a fortune beyond counting” in the recyclable garbage that richer people throw away. Meanwhile Asha, a woman of formidable ambition, has identified a shadier route to the middle class. With a little luck, her beautiful daughter, Annawadi’s “most-everything girl,” might become its first female college graduate. And even the poorest children, like the young thief Kalu, feel themselves inching closer to their dreams. But then Abdul is falsely accused in a shocking tragedy; terror and global recession rock the city; and suppressed tensions over religion, caste, sex, power, and economic envy turn brutal. With intelligence, humor, and deep insight into what connects people to one another in an era of tumultuous change, Behind the Beautiful Forevers, based on years of uncompromising reporting, carries the reader headlong into one of the twenty-first century’s hidden worlds—and into the hearts of families impossible to forget.

Winner of the National Book Award | The PEN/John Kenneth Galbraith Award | The Los Angeles Times Book Prize | The American Academy of Arts and Letters Award | The New York Public Library’s Helen Bernstein Book Award

Koh-i-Noor: The History of the World's Most Infamous Diamond

William Dalrymple

The first comprehensive and authoritative history of the Koh-i-Noor, arguably the most celebrated and mythologised jewel in the world.

On 29 March 1849, the ten-year-old Maharajah of the Punjab was ushered into the magnificent Mirrored Hall at the centre of the great Fort in Lahore. There, in a public ceremony, the frightened but dignified child handed over great swathes of the richest country in India in a formal Act of Submission to a private corporation, the East India Company. He was also compelled to hand over to the British monarch, Queen Victoria, perhaps the single most valuable object on the subcontinent: the celebrated Koh-i Noor diamond. The Mountain of Light.

The history of the Koh-i-Noor that was then commissioned by the British may have been one woven together from gossip of Delhi bazaars, but it was to be become the accepted version. Only now is it finally challenged, freeing the diamond from the fog of mythology that has clung to it for so long. The resulting history is one of greed, murder, torture, colonialism and appropriation told through an impressive slice of south and central Asian history. It ends with the jewel in its current controversial setting: in the crown of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.

Masterly, powerful and erudite, this is history at its most compelling and invigorating.

Connectivity in Motion: Island Hubs in the Indian Ocean World (Palgrave Series in Indian Ocean World Studies)

Burkhard Schnepel (Editor), Edward A. Alpers (Editor)

This original collection brings islands to the fore in a growing body of scholarship on the Indian Ocean, examining them as hubs or points of convergence and divergence in a world of maritime movements and exchanges. Straddling history and anthropology and grounded in the framework of connectivity, the book tackles central themes such as smallness, translocality, and “the island factor.” It moves to the farthest reaches of the region, with a rich variety of case studies on the Swahili-Comorian world, the Maldives, Indonesia, and more. With remarkable breadth and cohesion, these essays capture the circulations of people, goods, rituals, sociocultural practices, and ideas that constitute the Indian Ocean world. Together, they take up “islandness” as an explicit empirical and methodological issue as few have done before.

Spices in the Indian Ocean World (An Expanding World: The European Impact on World History, 1450 to 1800)

By turns exotic, valuable and of cardinal importance in the development of world trade, spices, as the editor reminds us, are today a mundane accessory in any well-equiped kitchen; in the 15th-18th centuries, the spice trade from the Indian Ocean to markets all over the world was a major economic enterprise. Setting the scene with extracts from Garcia da Orta's fascinating contemporary Colloquies on the drugs and simples of India [Goa 1563], this collection reviews trade in a wide variety of spices, exploring merchant organisation, transport and marketing as well as detailing the quantitative evidence on the fluctuations in spice trade. The evidence and historical debates concerning the 16th-century revival of the Mediterranean and Red Sea spice trade at this time, are fully represented here

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17 Day Tailor-Made Private Tour of Northern India

Our travel consultant Allison Chiang did a fantastic job of organising our trip to include the highlights we were aware of, plus more. Our intinery included Delhi, Varanasi (sunrise on Ganges and evening Ganges Aarti ceremony), Agra (Taj Mahal), Ranthambore (3 x tiger safaris), Jaipur (Amerfort), Pushkar (Brahma Temple and Pushkar Lake), Jodhpur (Meherangarh Fort), Ranakpur, Udaipur (City Palace and Lake Pichola) and return flight to Delhi.Apart from our flights to and from Varanasi our privategroup of 7 travelled in a large comfortable bus with our driver Mr. Singh and his capable assistant Mundi. Both Mr. Singh and Mundi were extremely polite and friendly. They went out of their way to ensure our trip was comfortable and interesting. We were met at each city by a representative of India Odyssey (now Odynovo) and introduced to our guide for each tour. Each of the guides offered new and interesting information about each city and provided our group of 7 with an informative insight into the history, people and cultures of the area. Our hotels were all first class. We have used Allison before for a Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos Tour and would highly recommend her and Odynovo for any Indochina trip.

Date of experience : January 23, 2020

Narenda modi rape country's prime…

Narenda modi rape country's prime Minister A rape is reported every quarter in India One woman reported that she was raped on average once every 15 minutes in India in 2018. A total of almost 34,000 rapes were reported in the country during that year, according to Indian authorities. The vulnerability of women has been high on the agenda in India in recent years after several notable cases. In 2012, a woman was raped and murdered on a bus in the capital New Delhi, which led to major protests and later toughened legislation. 85 percent of the reports led to formal criminal charges and 27 of them to conviction, according to the Home Office. The statistics are probably not comprehensive. On the one hand, it is still taboo to report sexual offenses in many parts of India and on the other, sexual offenses are counted where the victim is murdered briefly and for good as murder. (Reuters)

Date of experience : January 10, 2020

5 wonderful days in Bhutan!

We visited Bhutan with India Odyssey Tour. Our tour consultant was Mr.Kyle Li . He did an excellent job. Our tour guide and driver are well-experienced and helpful. Our wonderful 5 days trip in Bhutan went smoothly. Bhutan is a hidden jewel in Asia, so whoever wants to discover something new or exotic should visit there. We enjoyed every single moment in Bhutan!

Date of experience : December 18, 2017

Reply from India Odyssey Tours

Dear Vincent, It’s our great honor can be shosen us your travel companion and praised to Kyle. And we are so proud everything was up to your expectations during the trip. I can't agree you more that Bhutan is a hidden gem in Asia. The Punakha Dzong is my favourite, a very beautiful Bhutanese architecture armed by the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, with rich Buddhist collections. I believe that what you experienced in this exotic country will add everlasting beautiful colors to your memories. Warmest regards, Melissa Leng You are not alone with Odyssey!

Odyssey Tours 5*

We are currently planning our next trip to India and can’t recommend enough Odyssey Tours and in particular our travel consultant Mavis Jiang. Mavis helped us through all the planning stages with our constant questions and itinerary changes with out any problems. Always coming back the same or the next day, considering this done over the Internet We can’t wait for our holiday Mavis and thanks again for all your help!! 😁👍Totally recommend Odyssey Tours !!!

Date of experience : March 20, 2018

Dear Michael, We were so pleased to receive your correspondence and we accepted your compliment with gratitude and pride. Thank you very much for choosing Odyssey and thank you very much for your great recognition of Mavis! It has always been the goal of Odyssey to provide our clients with a most satisfying service and we have been working hard on it for the past decade. We will keep doing it for more decades. Cheers David Li

Wonderful private tour of Golden Triangle

We booked a custom 1 week private tour of Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore and Jaipur through Odyssey Tours. All aspects of the tour were excellent. Our driver, Mr Girraj Singh, was safe and courteous and spoke good English that made it easy to communicate. The tour guides and Odyssey reps in each city were professional and knowledgeable and were quick to adjust the itinerary to meet our needs. At every step of the way, we felt that we were in good hands. Last but not least, planning the tour was also made easy by our travel consultant, Mr Owen Zhou, who was always prompt and thorough in his responses.

Date of experience : March 30, 2018

Dear Dave, Thanks a lot for traveling with Odyssey! Great to know that you just enjoyed a lifetime journey with us to India. Our top goal is to create as many happy clients as you. Owen, Mr Girraj Singh and everyone in the team are doing our utmost on it. We hope that we will have another opportunity to serve you and your family in the future, and as before, you will certainly have Owen as your private consultant.:) Best regards David Li

Too little effort in helping shape our vacation

Too little effort in helping shape our vacation meant tons of time in the car driving for hours on end between cities to see little. Domestic flights weren't proposed not because they weren't available, but because India Odyssey lacked adequate support teams (but they didn't bother to tell us that). They didn't recommend some big sites that we were right next to. When we finally flew back to Delhi to overnight before a morning flight, they didn't even think to put us at a hotel near the airport, instead arranging for a 1.5-2 hour drive each way so that we stayed at the in-town hotel we had been at at the beginning of our stay. The tour package was expensive, but had some more thought and effort gone into it, it would have been worth it. Instead, we paid a hefty price to see only a portion of what we could beyond the inside of the vehicle.

Date of experience : November 29, 2017

Dear Mike, Thank you so much for travelling with us in China and India! We are truly sorry that some parts of your India tour with us in October of 2016 didn't meet your expectations. Your valuable opinion has had our greatest attention. The road condition in India is not good enough and it was not easy for 6hrs driving between Jaipur and Udaipur which we can not avoid it at that time. Fortunately, the domestic flights between these two cities finally been operated since early this year. However we believe that the lovely cities surely minimized your disappointment from the long distance driving. Airport hotel is a good idea though, what a pity that our consultant has missed out for this part, and we apologize for this thoughtlessness. We believe these little episodes wouldn't ruin your impression of the beauty of India. We would also like to thank you for your feedback since it is an important reminder to us. Once again, please accept our sincere apologies to you. If given an opportunity in the future, we promise that you will have a totally worthy and pleasant experience with Odyssey since our improvement and we have a deeper understanding of your expectation now. Warmest regard, Melissa Leng You are not alone with Odyssey!

Private tour of India.

Private tour of India. Had a great experience with my Odyssey Travel Consultant, Queenie Yang. She spent time managing my requests, and found many experiences that we wanted to be involved in. She recommended appropriate alternatives when my choices where not available. Can't wait for our tour of India to start early next year.

Date of experience : December 08, 2017

Dear Mr. Andrew Warren, On behalf of our team, especially Queenie, I have to express our heartfelt appreciation for you. Queenie is one of our experienced travel consultants who always work attentively and with a wealth of knowledge. With her assistance, I am sure your coming tour of India must brilliant! Warmest regards, Melissa Leng You are not alone with Odyssey!

30 day Tailor Made trip around North India

Another incredible trip organised by Queenie Yang. Our trip went from Delhi to Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Agra, Varanasi, Shimla, Dharamsala, Amristar and back to Delhi. We stayed in Havelis, Palaces, resorts and hotels. Such a wonderful variety of accommodation with greats views and amazing architecture. Our drivers Bubu and Ardja kept us safe and were so helpful along the way. Highlights of the trip were a camel ride in the Thar desert, sunset on the lake at Udiapaur, Agra and the Tarj, the boat ride on the Gangers, the clean mountain air in Shimla and snow capped peaks in Dharamsala. Almost forget making Nairn in the Community Kitchen at Amristar. Such an amazing variety of cultural sites and experiences. The four of us had such an incredible adventure. Thanks Queenie.

Date of experience : March 10, 2017

Dear Lee Myers, Thank you for your kind words on our services. We regarded your satisfaction as an honor and recognition in our service and felt proud of it. At India Odyssey Tours, we realize that each journey is special for every client. So we would like to do everything possible to ensure your trip of India is one of your best travel experiences. Stay in touch and please do not hesitate to connect with us on Facebook(My Odyssey Tours), where you can share your travel stories and nice photos with other travelers. Warmest Regards, Jovi Qi You are not alone with Odyssey!

China, Tibet and Myanmar

Excellent arrangements. Our third time with this company, and everything they do is top notch. This trip was mainly Tibet and Myanmar but also a revisit of Hong Kong for several days as well as the giant panda capital Chengdu. Super guides who are attentive and very knowledgeable, and importantly for us, flexible when we requested changes in the daily programs. We can highly recommend Indiaodysseytours for those who are tired of the crowds and big groups.

Date of experience : May 24, 2017

Dear Bard Bunaes, Everyone at Odyssey, we love traveling, and we love to provide a happy and special tour experience for others, we feel so proud and encouragement every time when we read those kind feedback from our clients. Thank you Bard, We will always be here, ready to work with and your friends for more happy memories! Best Regards, Jovi Qi You are not alone with Odyssey!

Private Tour to India - highly recommended experience

Spent 12 days in India in a private tour with my wife, sister and brother in law, many days in the bus viewing different cities in northwest India and Mumbai, Delhi, Varanassi, Agra, Jaypur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Mumbai. The Odyssey Tours travel consultant, Nikki Xia was knowledgeable, and bent backwards to satisfy our requests. People waited for us at each airport, even when the flights were delayed. The driver for most of it, Mukesh Chudhari was incredibly good and attentive. The guides on each city were knowledgeable and personable. We would recommend Odyssey Tours to other people we know.

Date of experience : January 08, 2018

Dear Carlos Banchik, It's so grateful for sharing your wonderful experience of India and praising highly to our travel consultant Nikki, driver Mukesh. There are so many incredible places in the world and Odyssey's goal is to present all these to our customers. India is an amazing country you can always have too much to explore. Such as the colorful Hindu Temple, vivid picture of devoted Hindus bathe in the river and the charming sunset in Taj Mahal etc,. I believe you must have had a great harvest from this journey. Warmest regards, Melissa Leng You are not alone with Odyssey!

Mavis & Odyssey Tours are the BEST

Mavis & Odyssey Tours are reliable, professional, & caring. I travel quite a bit & I've never found a tour company like this. Mavis set up my itinerary around my available dates & interests. Afterwards I was to travel alone to Amritsar. My travel with Odyssey Tours was complete yet they sent someone to drive me to the airport. Mavis & company went way beyond my expectations. I highly recommend them.

Date of experience : April 01, 2017

Dear Arlene, Thank you for choosing Odyssey Tours. Odyssey Tours has been devoted to private tours for years and we know that a suitable guide is vital for a pleasant trip. Since the very moment you contacted us, you will have our experienced travel consultants, well trained guides & drivers, professional customer care at your assistance 24/7. Please never hesitate to contact us for your next trip. Odyssey Tours is always ready to offer you a well-organized tour. Warmest Regards, Jovi Qi You are not alone with Odyssey!

India Odyssey arranged our dream adventure!

Mavis Jiang from India Odyssey arranged our 14 day trip to Nepal and Bhutan. I have traveled to Uganda, Peru and China, so this was not a huge step for me. However, my husband had never traveled outside Western Europe, so Kathmandu was quite a margin out of his comfort zone. I wanted to make sure the trip went as smoothly as possible, and Mavis went out of her way to always reassure me and even made last minute changes to the itinerary because of some concerns about having enough rest days before strenuous climbs. I will certainly be contacting her to arrange our next adventure - perhaps to New Zealand! I highly recommend this company without reservation.

Date of experience : March 31, 2018

Dear Elizabeth, We were so pleased to receive your correspondence and we accepted your compliment with gratitude and pride. Thank you very much for choosing Odyssey and thank you very much for your great recognition of Mavis! It has always been the goal of Odyssey to provide our clients with a most satisfying service and we have been working hard on it for the past decade. We will keep doing it for more decades. Best regards, David Li

Everything was well coordinated. Bhutan is so beautiful. Dendup and Tobden were knowledgeable and polite, flexible and tried to meet all my requests. Thanks for an unforgettable journey. Debora was the travel consultant who arranged everything quickly last minute. The hotels were 3 stars but far better than I expected and the meals were satisfactory.

Date of experience : March 24, 2018

Dear Nicole, Thank you for traveling with us to Bhutan, and thank you very much for your great recognition of Debora! It has always been the goal of Odyssey to provide our clients with a most satisfying service and we have been working hard on it for the past decade. We will keep doing it for more decades. Best regards, David Li

Great tour with India Odyssey Tours

Our tour to the Ajanta and Ellora Caves and Mumbai was organized by Don Li at Odyssey Tours and we were very happy with everything! The guides and drivers were wonderful and everything ran smoothly with no hassles. I take a group of students to India each year and Don always organizes a great end of trip tour for us. This year our plans were a little complicated and I really appreciated Don's flexibility and patience in finding the best options for us. Looking forward to next year!

Date of experience : February 04, 2018

Dear Dr. Leesa Davis, Millions of thanks for choosing My Odyssey as your travel companion for many times! And we are so glad that everything we tailor made was beyond your expectaions. I can't agree you more that Ellora Caves is the "hidden gem“. With variety of carved pillars and and full of stories with delicate on it. I believe you and your student must have had great harvest from this trip. We look forward to showing you more of wonders in other cahrming destinations on your next trip. Warmest regards, Melissa Leng You are not alone with Odyssey!

recent tour of india

Have recently returned from a tour of India that I devised and then was arranged by India Odyssey Tours. I visited Mumbai, Aurangabad, Kochi, Perayar, Madurai and Kerala backwaters. All the hotels were excellent as were the guides and drivers and I saw everything that I had planned. Sadly my experience with flights within India was dreadful. None left on time and delays ranged from half an hour to one and a half hours. This added up to a day of my holiday wasted sitting at airports. However this cannot be blamed on IOT. The only reason I cannot give 5 stars was that on a couple of occasions the choice of hotel was not the best, once because of my advanced age and the huge number of steps that had to be negotiated and also with the inconvenient location within the city.

Date of experience : December 10, 2017

Dear Ian Collie, Thank you so much for your support as second time. We are so glad that you are satisfied with the guides and driver we arranged. And I have to say taking the private houseboat to Backwaters to experience the unique scenery and the local life of southern India is my favorite part. We are sorry about the inconvenience that our consultant has missed some part of the hotel choosing. However we believe this episode does not disturb your lovely trip. Please contact us freely, we will keep working harder to provide more wonderful vacations for you. Warmest regards, Melissa Leng You are not alone with Odyssey!

Excellent Customer Service!

We have not been on our trip yet but our experience booking it has been excellent. Our travel consultant Queenie Yang has been incredibly helpful, courteous and professional throughout the process. She has patiently researched and answered all our questions but never been pushy. She has gone out of her way to tailor our holiday for us and get the best deal. Thank you Queenie!

Date of experience : December 07, 2017

Dear Trudy Davies, How wonderful that read such encouraging comments which shared from our clients, Thank you so much! I have to say Queenie is a fantastic travel consultant with a wealth of knowledge in our team! She has been highly recommended by our clients for many times. And your praise here will absolutely be the best reward for her to do a much better job! Warmest regards, Melissa Leng You are not alone with Odyssey!

Services provided by your Consultant …(Queenie) has been excellent.

Services provided by your Consultant Queenie has been excellent. We asked her to tailor a tour for a group of 12 and there has been many changes and iterations during the packaging. She has been patient and thorough to highlight the pros and cons of options. She was prompt in replying to our e-mails after researching and finding out the facts and answers. After analysing several options on the tour, accommodations and travel, we were able to finalise a tour plan to satisfy all the members. So, she has done a fantastic job and must be commended.

Date of experience : December 28, 2017

Dear Mr. Kumar Siva, How wonderful to see an excellent feedback which shared from our clients! And thank you for prasing highly to Queenie. As a company devoted to tailor made tours for years, we can always make the personalized route according to the customer's preference. No matter you are couple or a group of 12, we will do our best to create a much more wonderful experience for you. Thank you again for your kindest support. We hope your exploration of India will be joyful. Warmest regards, Melissa Leng You are not alone with Odyssey!

Indiaodysseytours

Owen Zhou has been our travel consultant for our upcoming 17 day tour in India.Owen has been very helpful and efficient in arranging our additions and changes to the standard tours offered by Indiaodysseytours. Owen has kept in regular contact and has provided good detail in such a way that we are very comfortable with all the arrangements made.We are looking forward to the tour. Geoff & Barbara, New Zealand.

Date of experience : February 16, 2017

Dear Geoff Billows, Thank you for choosing India Odyssey Tours. Odyssey Tours has been devoted to private tours for years and we know that a suitable guide is vital for a pleasant trip. Since the very moment you contacted us, you will have our experienced travel consultants, well trained guides & drivers, professional customer care at your assistance 24/7. Please never hesitate to contact us for your next trip. Odyssey Tours is always ready to offer you a well-organized tour. Warmest Regards, Jovi Qi You are not alone with Odyssey!

India Odyssey Tours a joy go work with.

India Odyssey Tours has been a joy to work with from the initial booking to final trip to the airport. My son and I are just concluding a 12 day tour through Rajastan with stays in Delhi, Udaipur, Johpur, Pushkar, Jaipur and Agra. The hotels, meals, guides and driver have all been excellent along the. I highly recommend to anyone wanting to see India in depth.

Dear Jim, Thank you so much for your warm compliment, we are so glad that everthing we offer was up to your expectations. From the exploration to the bustling local bazaar of Chandni Chowk, to the vivid and traditional Rangahala Cultural Dance (Kandyan Dance). You must have taken a "big bite " of the local life and culture of India. Best wish for you and your family. We hope more chance to surprise you in other charming destinations. Warmest regards, Melissa Leng You are not alone with Odyssey!

India Tour - Liz Ling

I have booked a tour of India starting on 5 January 2018. Our agent Liz Ling has been amazing. We have been planning the trip since June and Liz has helped us with suggestions for our itinerary and changed it many times as we have requested additional things we want to do or see. She has kept in touch at every step along the way, nothing has been too much trouble. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Odssesy Tours and Liz Ling!

Date of experience : December 21, 2017

Dear Janet White, Greetings from Jovi at My Odyssey Tours! Thank you for giving such an excellent feedback on our service. We are committed to delivering a friendly and professional service to all our customers. Your high praise to our travel consultant Liz are great compliments to us. We appreciate your trust of travelling with us and your kind recommendation of our tour service. When you have a chance to explore Asia again, we are more than honored to be your tour operator again! Merry Christmas, Jovi Qi You are not alone with Odyssey!

India Odyssey Tours - Colombo One-day Tour

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India Odyssey Tours - Colombo One-day Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

  • India Tours

North India Spiritual Experience

Agra Fort

  • Duration 14 Days
  • Tour Type Private & Bespoke
  • Tour Style Classic
  • ITINERARY SUMMARY
  • DETAILED ITINERARY

About This Trip

Itinerary summary.

  • DAY PLACE HIGHLIGHTS
  • 1 - 2 Delhi Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Lotus Temple, New Delhi City Tour
  • 3 - 4 Varanasi Boat Ride on the Gangers River, Aarti Ceremony, Deer Park, Bengali Tola Area, Sarnath Museum
  • 5 - 6 Agra Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Local Family Visiting
  • 7 - 8 Jaipur Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace Museum, Fatehpur Sikri, Jantar Mantar
  • 9 Pushkar Pushkar Lake, Brahma Temple
  • 10 - 11 Jodhpur Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant, Bishnoi Village, Clock Tower
  • 12 Jodhpur - Udaipur Jain Temples in Ranakpur
  • 13 Udaipur Jagdish Temple, City Palace, Garden of the Maids of Honour, Folk Art Museum, Monsoon Palace
  • 14 Delhi Departure

Day 1: Arrival, Delhi

Your private representative will pick you up from India Gandhi International Airport and escort you to your hotel in Delhi. On the way, you will get a brief introduction about your India tour. Check in and have some free time to recover from the jetlag.

Day 2: Delhi

After breakfast, your private local guide will take you tour the city landmarks of Delhi including India Gate, President's House, Parliament House and Government Secretariat Buildings. After that, continue to the Humayun's Tomb, a particular cultural significance as it is the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. Proceed to visit Qutub Minar, a minaret with a height of 73 meters made of red sandstone. Laxmi Narayan Temple and Lotus Temple are also contained in your today's trip. The latter is famous in world for its awesome architecture with nine-sided construction.

Day 3: Delhi - Varanasi

In the morning, fly to Varanasi City which is one of the most colorful and fascinating places on earth. The afternoon is at leisure for you to soak up the particular atmosphere of this holy city.

In the evening, take in the spiritual evening Ganga Aarti Ceremony which is a devotional prayer to the Ganges River.

Day 4: Varanasi

It is worth getting up early and take a boat ride to catch the fascinating sunrise over Ganges River that is India's longest river. After that, strolling through Bengali Tola area will give you an insider's look at the symbiotic life of the riverside people of Varanasi. Later, enjoy acompletely genuine Indian yoga class.

In the afternoon, you will head for Sarnath which is well known for the site of the Deer Park, where Buddha delivered his first sermon to his five disciples. And then pay a visit to Sarnath Museum housing the finest specimens of Buddhist art and other important remains.

Note: Sarnath Museum is closed on Fridays.

Day 5: Varanasi - Agra

This morning is free to you to relax before leaving for your flight to Agra. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day by yourself. A city exploration is a good choice.

Day 6: Agra

Today's first stop is to visit Taj Mahal, an immense mausoleum of white marble built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife. As one of the finest Mughal forts in India, Agra Fort is enclosed by a double battlemented massive wall of red sandstone. Later, visit a local family and enjoy lunch with Indian style with the host. Try Masala Chai, a spiced and sweetened black tea mixed with milk.

Day 7: Agra - Jaipur (by Car, About 5 Hours)

Take a drive about 5 hours west to Jaipur this morning. On the way, pay a visit to Fatehpur Sikri after 1.5 hours' drive which is a fascinating ghost city built in the 16th century. Continue to drive about 3.5 hours, you will arrive in Jaipur. Hotel check-in and have a good rest.

Day 8: Jaipur

After breakfast, explore the Amber Fort known for its mixture of Hindu and Muslim style of ornamentation. There, visit the glorious Sheesh Mahal known as Palace of Mirrors. Make a stop at the pink Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) for a photo opportunity, and then continue to City Palace Museum and Jantar Mantar. Applying the Mehandi or Henna Painting on your hands and learning how to dress an Indian Saree of different colors and materials are a great experience that really worth trying.

Day 9: Jaipur - Pushkar (by Car, About 3 Hours)

This morning, drive to Pushkar, a holy town in the state of Rajasthan famous for the Pushkar Lake with various Ghats and temples spread all around. Continue to the Brahma Temple close to the lake, which is Pushkar's most famous temple and it is a rare religious site that is dedicated to the lord of creation.

Day 10: Pushkar - Jodhpur

Today, you will be driven to a historic city of Jodhpur whose origin dates back to 1459 AD. Come to the well maintained Mehrangarh Fort located at a height of 400 feet above the city of Jodhpur. Inside its boundaries there are several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards. Head for Jaswant Thada afterwards to appreciate its carved gazebos, a tiered garden and a small lake.

Optional: We suggest you take Flying Fox as an extra activity at your expense, which you will enjoy the amazing views of the Fort by the zip line tour. 

Day 11: Jodhpur

Take part in a jeep safari in the rural Bishnoi Village where it will show you a glimpse of rich cultural life around northern states of India.And then follow the winding narrow alleys to Clock Tower also known as Ghanta Ghar, where you can explore small shops selling a wide variety of stuff containing textiles, shoes, spices, sweets, silver artifacts and even vegetables.

Day 12: Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur

Visit Ranakpur after about 2 hours' drive. Ranakpur is a small quaint village located between Jodhpur and Udaipur and is noted for large population of monkeys that live in and around the place. As one of the five most important pilgrimage places of Jainism, Ranakpur is also famous for its exquisite white marble Jain temples for Jains to worship. After that, continue 4 hours' drive to Udaipur.

Day 13: Udaipur

Today, you will visit JagdishTemple, a three-storey temple which is a wonder of architecture that comprises beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls and lush halls. Proceed to the City Palace and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola which is an artificial fresh water lake created in 1362 AD. After that, head to the Garden of the Maids of Honour and Folk Art Museum. Lastly, end your trip with a visit to Sajjan Garh Palace also known as Monsoon Palace. If the weather allows, watching the sunset will be a wonderful experience.

Day 14: Departure

This morning is free for you to enjoy something leisure. And then transfer to the airport to fly to your next destination.

Humayun's Tomb, Delhi

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The Odyssey Explore Difference

  • Immersive, curated small group tours to explore Incredible India & Rest of the World
  • Travel with like-minded people
  • Smaller group size between 10 to 15 people which gives a wonderful opportunity to make new friends
  • Tours include all the must see sights yet gives you enough free time to make it a relaxed trip
  • All our India tours include all three meals - vegetarian and non-vegetarian
  • Enjoy unique and off-the-beaten track experiences on our tours
  • All groups will be escorted by an Odyssey tour leader and a professional destination expert guide
  • Flexibility to book airline tickets as per your travel plans that could include pre and post stays

Egypt

My trip to Egypt with Odyssey travels was magical and amazing. Egypt was beautiful, full of ancient history, which was extensively covered by knowledgeable guides organised by Odyssey. Food and stay was the best. The Nile Cruise was fantastic. The whole tour was beyond my expectations. I will definitely travel with Odyssey again.

Karuna Mangharam

Rajasthan: Desert & Beyond

Rajasthan had been on my mind for years and when I saw the Odyssey itinerary it was a clincher for me. The tour was planned impeccably with great detailing and off beat experiences that just made the tour so very memorable. The properties we stayed in, to the fantastic meals located on a dune, farm, or rooftop and even an olive garden made this trip incredible. It's like the trip was designed to make you go wow and that happened many times. Thank you Odyssey travels for not just a wonderful trip but so much learning and expanding of mindsets through the travel. Looking forward to the next.

Aparajita Sapra

Odyssey Explore Tour to El Camino de Santiago in Sep 2019

Our week long adventure on the El Camino was one of the more memorable vacations we’ve been on. We usually do extensive research on trips we go on, but this one, we left entirely to you (Aparna) - because we were quite certain it would be perfect - and we were not wrong. From selecting members of the group at relatively equal energy levels, to picking overnight locations that had us walking in mouths wide open, to keeping track of eleven slightly free spirited people, you pulled it together marvelously. The background planning, before and after tripping and food and restaurant selections were meticulous, especially with varied food restrictions and occasional fussiness. The choice of trip, the path taken, and the guide chosen, all made for a vacation I could not have thought up. Look forward to more planned walking holidays with Odyssey Travels. Thank you

Priya and Raj Hajela

Odyssey Explore Tour to El Camino de Santiago in Sep 2019

We thoroughly enjoyed the tour of Israel and Jordan Tour. It was, as always, well researched and planned. The representative of Odyssey Travels was very helpful and courteous throughout the tour. The guides both in Israel and Jordan were well chosen, who took into account the age group and interests of the members of the group. On the whole an outstanding tour, which me and my wife thoroughly enjoyed.

Air Marshal P S Pingale, (Retd), PVSM, AVSM, VrC, VM

Odyssey Explore Tour to El Camino de Santiago in Sep 2019

We thoroughly enjoyed our Japan Tour. It was well planned, well organised and well executed. You have mixed sight-seeing, shopping and leisure properly. The group was perfect and it was a fun to drink together at the dinner-time. We look forward to having this type of tours ranging from 8 to 15 days depending on the location.

Mr Vijay Ruikar

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India Odyssey Tours - 1 Day Delhi Tour

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India Votes: World’s largest democracy prepares for historic 2024 elections

Opinion columnists.

From Himalayan heights to coastal retreats every vote counts in India’s democratic odyssey

BJP supporter India Elections

On Saturday, March 16, Rajiv Kumar, India’s Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), made an important announcement. The most populous country and largest democracy in the world would go to the polls in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, 2024. The results would be notified on June 4.

543 seats in the Lok Sabha, India’s lower house, are up for grabs. The party that wins the largest number will be invited to form the government. Just two days earlier, India’s two new Election Commissioners, Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, were announced making the complete cohort of three to oversee the largest such exercise in the world.

Consequent upon the announcement, the model code of conduct immediately comes into force. Aimed at both securing the peace and ensuring a level playing field to all parties and candidates, it prevents all participants in what has been described as the world’s largest festival of democracy from indulging in hate speech, abusing each other, provoking religious antagonism, or misusing campaign machinery during electioneering.

Almost a billion people will be eligible to cast their vote — 969 million to be more accurate, of which 19 million will be new voters. Stretching over 44 days, no election in the world has ever been held on this scale in human history.

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Across glaciers and deserts.

To register each vote cast by adult franchise, over 5.5 million electronic voting machines (EVMs) will be installed in over 1 million polling booths spread across the length and breadth of the country, from the snow-capped Himalayan heights to the deserts of Rajasthan, down to the sparsely populated islands of the Andaman archipelago in the Indian Ocean.

Over 15 million election officials and security personnel will be deployed to conduct this gargantuan exercise. To the exotically inclined, these officials “will trek across glaciers and deserts, ride elephants and camels, and travel by boats and helicopters to ensure every voter can cast their ballot,” as one well-known international news organisation observed. But for most of them, the task will be much more down to earth, with most government schools across the land hosting election booths on counting day.

India has 2,660 registered political parties. Each party contesting in the election is assigned a unique election symbol. But the actual number of parties in the reckoning is much smaller. In the 2019 general elections, there were only seven national and 43 regional parties in the fray, with an additional 623 unrecognised parties also giving it a go. Most of the latter failed to bag a single seat.

How much will the 2024 general elections cost? Government expenses alone are expected to be over Rs. 5000 crores ($600 million). As to what political parties and candidates spend, the sky is the limit. Some estimates put the total figures as high as Rs1.2 trillion ($14.4bn), making it the most expensive election in the world.

The sequence of the voting is as follows: April 19, 102 constituencies; April 26, 89 constituencies; May 7, 94 constituencies; May 13, 96 constituencies; May 20, 49 constituencies; May 25 and June 1, 57 constituencies each. Assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim will also be held at the same time.

Read more by Prof Makarand R. Paranjape

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'There is no alternative'

India, the world’s largest democracy, is renowned for its mammoth electoral processes, often spanning several weeks. The 2024 general elections in India are no exception, given the complexity and scale of the country. With the nation’s vast population and diverse landscape, conducting elections is a monumental task, requiring meticulous planning and execution. The decision to conduct the elections in seven phases reflects the unique challenges faced by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in ensuring free, fair, and accessible elections across the country.

Apart from India’s population density and geographical diversity, security concerns will also dominate the conduct of the elections. In the past, India has faced various security threats, including insurgencies, terrorism, and communal tensions. Ensuring the safety and security of voters, election officials, and polling stations is paramount.

Conducting elections in multiple phases allows for the deployment of security forces in a staggered manner, minimising vulnerabilities and enhancing protection. Over 67% of the electorate cast their votes in 2019. This year, the turnout is expected to be equally high, despite the searing summer months during which the polling will be held.

Now to the most important question: who will emerge the victor in these elections? The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led by its popular prime minister, Narendra Modi, is widely expected to win again, that too with increased vote percentages and margins. In the last general elections, held in 2019, the BJP won 303 seats on its own. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which it heads, bagged 353. This time Modi has set a target of over 375 seats for the BJP and 400 for the NDA.

The opposition I.N. D. I. alliance is in disarray, with its principal party, the Congress, feared to fare even worse than in 2019, when it could only manage a meagre 52 seats.

Modi has never lost an election in his life. If he and his party win again, he will embark upon an unprecedented third term as India’s head of government. His great asset is his enduring appeal to aspirational India.

The “Modi guarantee” is to make India great once again. But perhaps an even greater asset is captured in the acronym “TINA” — there is no alternative. Too true.

@MakrandParanspe

Makarand R. Paranjape is an author and columnist.

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