Treasures of Central India

On arrival in Delhi, you’ll be met by your Indus Bound Representative and transferred to your hotel, where you’ll be staying for two nights. Spend the remainder of the day recovering from your journey, and perhaps a stroll around the local neighborhood later.

Explore the contrasts of Delhi, beginning in Old Delhi with a cycle rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk and a visit to Jama Masjid. Continue to New Delhi to see Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar and Bangla Sahib Sikh Temple, where you can experience the community kitchen.

Take a morning train to Gwalior. This afternoon, visit the magnificent Gwalior Fort, one of India's finest hill forts, and the Scindia Museum. Also admire the intricately carved Jain and Hindu temples, celebrated for their remarkable architecture and craftsmanship. followed by a one-hour drive to Orchha. 

Morning drive to Orchha (2–3 hours). Visit the magnificent Jehangir Mahal, the royal Chhatris and the revered Ram Raja Temple, while exploring the historic palaces and temples of the Bundela kings along the Betwa River.

After breakfast, board a train to Bhopal. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, or explore the city independently with your private chauffeur at your disposal.

Enjoy a full-day excursion to Sanchi, one of India's most significant Buddhist monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the ancient stupas, monasteries and intricately carved gateways dating to the 3rd century BC. Later, return to Bhopal to visit the elegant Moti Masjid and enjoy views of the city's lakes.

After breakfast, drive to Maheshwar (6–7 hours), stopping en route at the UNESCO-listed Bhimbetka Caves, home to India's finest collection of prehistoric rock art. Upon arrival, check in to the beautiful Ahilya Fort and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Enjoy a full-day excursion to Mandu, famed for its magnificent hilltop fort and impressive Afghan architecture. Visit the grand Jama Masjid, the romantic Baz Bahadur Palace and Hoshang Shah's Tomb, one of India's finest marble mausoleums dating back to the 15th century.

After breakfast, drive to Aurangabad (6–7 hours), passing through the scenic rural landscapes of central India. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to relax or explore the surroundings independently.

Today, visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ajanta Caves (closed on Mondays), a masterpiece of ancient Buddhist art dating from the 2nd century BC to the 6th century AD. Admire the remarkable rock-cut monasteries, exquisite frescoes and intricate sculptures illustrating the life of Buddha and the Jataka tales.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ellora Caves (closed on Tuesdays), renowned for their remarkable Buddhist, Hindu and Jain rock-cut temples, including the magnificent Kailasa Temple. Later, visit the imposing hilltop fortress of Daulatabad before returning to Aurangabad.

Morning flight to Mumbai. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Full-day city tour of Mumbai, visiting the Gateway of India, Prince of Wales Museum and other important sights. Meet the legendary Dabbawalas, known for their unique lunchbox delivery system, followed by an evening visit to Crawford Market, the city’s principal fresh produce market.

At the appropriate time, transfer to Mumbai International Airport for your flight back home, or continue your onward journey with us.