Although Indian cuisine is not as famous as the top three world-renown cuisines, it has become more and more popular because of its rich flavors and the diverse vegetables in it. If you are planning your first trip to India and would like to have an authentic food adventure as well as visiting the must-see attractions, this 9-day India highlights and food tour will be your best choice.
In this tour, you will have rich food experiences, which include enjoying a special dinner in a fine restaurant, having a cooking class in a local person's home, and sampling some fresh street food.
Suggested Route for an Indian Highlights and Food Tour
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Tour Highlights
Here are the awesome attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Asia Highlights (AH Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Asia Highlights (Only With AH) included in this tour:
Explore the Chandni Chowk by a rickshaw to discover ordinary people's life.
Admire the unbelievable ancient wonder, the Taj Mahal.
Explore the lovely 'Pink City', Jaipur, and enjoy a memorable dinner in the romantic Amber Fort.
Meet and interact with locals to learn about the Indian culture and food.
Witness an incredible ceremony and sample the fresh street food in Varanasi.
Itinerary in Detail
Your preferences design the real journey. We're ready to create a wonderful India tour for you.
Welcome to Delhi. Your guide and driver will meet you in the arrivals hall and take you to your hotel. Enjoy your free time for the rest of the day.
- Visit to the revered Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Admire the amalgamation of Islamic and Indian architectural styles.
- Hop on a rickshaw and venture into the bustling Chandni Chowk market in Old Delhi. This lively market provides a fascinating insight into the daily lives of local people.
- Uncover traditional Indian components, spices, and cooking techniques with the guidance of an experienced local guide, who is also a Chef.
- Experience the warmth and hospitality of a local family as you are invited into their home. Indulge in a home-cooked meal, prepared with love and care, and savor the authentic flavors of Delhi.
- Drive from Delhi to Agra in the morning.
- Enjoy an afternoon tea with the view of Taj Mahal at a rooftop cafe.
- Then, visit Mehtab Bagh, also known as the Moonlight Garden, in the late afternoon. Located behind the Taj Mahal, the garden is situated on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River. As you stand amidst the peaceful surroundings, witness the magical sight of the Taj Mahal as the sun begins to set.
- In the early morning, witness the epitome of architectural excellence as you visit the incomparable Taj Mahal. As you approach this ivory-white marble marvel, you will be overwhelmed by its stunning beauty.
- Your next stop is Itmad-ud-Daula's Tomb, known as the 'Baby Taj.' This impressive white marble tomb features colorful mosaics and intricate stone inlays, resembling a smaller version of the Taj Mahal.
- In the afternoon, you will visit Agra Fort, a magnificent fortress built during the 16th century. Bask in the sunlight that casts a vibrant glow upon the red sandstone, reflecting the glory of the bygone Mughal Empire.
- Bid farewell to Agra and embark on a scenic car journey towards the vibrant city of Jaipur, also known as the 'Pink City.'
- Make a stop at a village near Jaipur to marvel at the remarkable Chand Baori stepwell. As you gaze at its intricate design, you may wonder why Indians have a knack for making wells so romantic and intriguing. Be prepared for its mesmerizing sight, as it boasts an impressive 3,500 steps.
- Enjoy a delectable dinner at Amber Fort in an elegant dining room while being serenaded by live Indian music. As darkness falls, the fort transforms into a picturesque setting, as if pulled straight from a fairy tale. Stand on the fort's balcony and look down to witness a mesmerizing sight.
- Explore the majestic Amber Fort. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors on the walls, along with the shimmering mirrors in Sheesh Mahal, transport you back in time to the era of the great dynasty.
- Continue your journey to Jaipur's City Palace. This magnificent palace provides a glimpse into the lives of the Maharajas of Jaipur. The beautiful courtyard and the abundance of exhibits showcase the richness and sophistication of the royal lifestyle.
- Make a quick stop for a photo opportunity at the famous Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of Winds. Capture the intricate lattice work and the subtle hues of this stunning palace.
- Indulge in a cooking class at Ikaki Niwas and immerse yourself in the art of Indian cuisine. Learn the art of using various Indian spices and try your hand at cooking like the locals do. Enjoy the dinner you've prepared, savoring the flavors and aromas that define Indian cuisine.
- In the morning, board a flight from Jaipur to Varanasi.
- Embark on a serene boat ride along the Ganges River. Observe pilgrims engaging in sacred rituals, washing their bodies in the holy river, and offering prayers to cleanse their souls. This glimpse into the riverside activities provides a deep insight into the spiritual beliefs and practices of the locals.
- Make your way to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Golden Temple, to witness the highly choreographed Ganga Aarti ceremony. The synchronized movements, devotion, and spiritual energy of the participants make this ceremony a truly captivating experience.
- Enjoy a boat ride at sunrise along the Ganges River bathed in the gentle morning light. Witness the daily activities that unfold along the riverbanks, showcasing the interdependence of the community.
- Embark on a culinary adventure through the bustling streets of Varanasi's old city. Indulge in the diverse range of local specialties, from savory chaats and crispy samosas to piping hot jalebis and refreshing lassis. This street food hunt will offer you a glimpse into the culinary heritage.
- Head to Sarnath, a sacred place for Buddhism. This serene location holds great significance as the place where Buddha, after attaining enlightenment in 528 BC, preached the first sermon to his five disciples. Afterward, explore the Archaeological Museum, where an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts awaits.
Ideas for Making This Trip Uniquely Yours
Special experiences can be added to brighten a honeymoon trip, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.
Enjoy a Memorable Sunset at the Nahargarh Fort
For couples |
Heena Painting on Hands and Feet
For culture fans |
Moonlights Tour of Taj Mahal
For couples |
Hand-Picked Hotels
We have selected hotels with different styles and for different budgets. Let us know your preferences and we will help you find the right one.
We recommend to experience palace hotels, heritage hotels, or nice resorts in order to get the high-quality service and to your experience.
Our Service Includes:
- Private transfers and English-speaking tour guide
- All guided sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
- 4-star accommodations for 8 nights
- Flights between cities mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary
- Governmental taxes
Tour code: ah-in-82
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