Treasures of Central India
This journey unveils the timeless treasures of Central India, combining iconic landmarks with lesser-known cultural gems. Admire the historic splendours of Delhi, wander through the mighty forts and palaces built by the Mughals and Rajputs, and marvel at the ancient paintings and remarkable rock-cut sculptures of the Ajanta and Ellora Caves near Aurangabad.
Journey Highlights
Walk through the vibrant lanes of Chandni Chowk Bazaar in Old Delhi
Visit the Gwalior's little-visited Fort
Step back in time amid magnificent palaces, grand temples and the medieval charm of the historic riverside town of Orchha
Explore the Bhimbetka caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Bhopal
Visit the 10th century grandiose and impressive fort of Mandu
- Witness awe-inspiring sights of Ajanta and Ellora
Itinerary
DAY 01
Arrive Delhi
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.
DAY 02
In Delhi
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.
DAY 03
Train to Gwalior
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.
DAY 04
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.
DAY 05
Train to Bhopal
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.
DAY 06
In Bhopal
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.
DAY 07
Drive to Maheshwar
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.
DAY 08
In Maheshwar
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.
DAY 09
Drive to Aurangabad
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.
DAY 10
In Aurangabad
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.
DAY 11
In Aurangabad
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.
DAY 12
Fly to Mumbai
Morning flight to Mumbai. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
DAY 13
In Mumbai
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.
DAY 14
Departure
At the appropriate time, transfer to Mumbai International Airport for your flight back home, or continue your onward journey with us.
Enquiry
Starting from USD 1380 Per Person*
* lean season and based on comfortable hotels
Price is based on double occupancy and is subject to change depending on the hotels selected and travel dates.
Your tour includes daily breakfast, all monument entrance fees, expert local guides, domestic flights, airport transfers, a private chauffeur-driven air-conditioned SUV, and all applicable taxes.
“Carved into the living rock, Ajanta and Ellora stand as timeless testaments to India’s extraordinary artistic and spiritual heritage.”
Hotel Ideas
These are some of the recommended hotels for your private tour
The Imperial
New Delhi
OPULENT, HERITAGE
The Claridges
New Delhi
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
Colonels Retreat
New Delhi
BASIC, B&B
Taj Usha Kiran Palace
Gwalior
OPULENT, HERITAGE
Jehan Numa Palace
Bhopal
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
Ahilya Fort
Maheshwar
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
The Vivanta
Aurangabad
FIRST CLASS
Taj Mahal Palace
Mumbai
OPULENT, HERITAGE
The Oberoi
Mumbai
FIRST CLASS
"An incredible trip to India"
Dear Pankaj, you delivered what we had been missing during our last six trips to India—a truly authentic Indian experience! Every part of the journey felt thoughtfully planned, allowing us to connect with the culture, people, and destinations in a much more meaningful way. A piece of advice for anyone hesitating to work with you: If you are tired of cookie-cutter tours and are looking for an authentic, personalised travel experience in India, you are absolutely in the right place. Thank you for creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.
Ms Elaine & Mr Wayne Helson, UK
"Nothing Short of Extraordinary"
We have had the most amazing time, great hotels and great experiences. Our drivers and guides have been excellent, in particular Govinder Raj who has been our driver and companion for the last ten days. Govinder has been extremely obliging and has made sure we have been safe and where we should be, on time, with all our belongings and with a stack of goodies and water. He has kept the car immaculate both inside and out, and has driven us with care and skill on all our journeys. Your planning of all the inclusions such are the ceremonies at temples, boat rides and the Everest Flight made the whole trip one never to forget.
Mr & Mrs Davies-Webb, UK
"Highly Recommended"
I wanted to take the time to thank you for all the hard work you put in to arrange a magical honeymoon for us. We had a ball. All the transfers worked like clockwork, the hotels were great and the route planning excellent. We really felt we were spoon-fed all the way through.
Ms Gayle Rawes & Mr Andrew Slatford, UK
"Superb Service"
The outcome of this trip far exceeded our expectations and we would recommend your agency without any reservation. Our sincerest thanks for a well planned and executed tour.
Mr Eugene & Ms Mirasol Johnson, USA
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