Taj Mahal and the Pink City: Overland (Double)
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Port
Phuket, Thailand
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$6999
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
7 Days / 6 Nights
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Meals Included
Meals included
Day 1 (D)
Begin your adventure with a transfer to Phuket airport, where you'll board your flight to the city of Delhi. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel for check-in and sometime of leisure.
Delhi, a city of contrasts, is divided into two distinct parts: Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi, once the capital of Muslim India from the 17th to the 19th century, is a treasure trove of historical mosques, monuments, and forts.
New Delhi, the imperial city, was meticulously crafted by the British as the capital of India. In 1911, the renowned English architect Edwin Lutyens was commissioned to design this modern marvel. His vision brought to life a city adorned with impressive monuments that reflect the conquests of the Mughals, Turks, Persians, and ultimately the British. Stroll along the broad avenues lined with stately residences and admire the lavish neoclassical creations leading up to the magnificent Presidential Palace and Parliament buildings.
As the day draws to a close, dinner will be served at your hotel.
Day 2 (B, L, D,)
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Delhi airport for your flight to the city of Jaipur. Upon arrival, you'll be escorted to your hotel, where you'll enjoy lunch before checking in.
Jaipur, known as "The City of Victory", was originally intended to be named "Sawai Jaipur" after the boy Prince who commissioned it - Maharaja Jai Singh II. This remarkable ruler, who reigned over the Mughals from 1699 to 1743, was not only a warrior but also an astronomer and politician.
Today's Jaipur is famously known as "The Pink City", a name that evokes the warm hues of an autumn sunset. Although the city's walls were originally rendered and pigmented the color of red sandstone, Jaipur's universal coat of pink paint was introduced in 1876 to celebrate the visit of the Prince of Wales (King Edward VII). The entire city was adorned with this vibrant color, creating a unique and charming atmosphere.
After checking in and getting some rest, you'll embark on an exciting rickshaw ride through the local market. This immersive experience will allow you to soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of Jaipur's vibrant street life.
Return to your hotel for dinner.
Day 3 (B, L, D,)
After breakfast, you'll embark on a curated walking tour focused on the Water Heritage of Rajasthan's rich culture. Despite being a desert, Rajasthan is a water civilization, and water is the cornerstone of its cultural repository. Our traditions, beliefs, textiles, art, food, and valor are all intertwined with the presence of water, making every tale magical.
The onset of the monsoon rains in July heralds the beginning of major festivals across the state. During this 2-hour storytelling tour, you'll explore ancient water structures such as channels, Roman aqueducts, stepwells, and storage reservoirs. Learn about their purpose, architecture, and history through fascinating facts, anecdotes, and tales that make the experience both fun and entertaining.
Walk through the jungle, surrounded by natural beauty, as you listen to captivating stories from ancient desert culture. This enchanting experience will leave you spellbound!
Proceed to a hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, continue your exploration of Jaipur with visits to the City Palace and the Jantar Mantar Observatory. The City Palace is a stunning blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture, while the Jantar Mantar Observatory is an astronomical marvel built by Maharaja Jai Singh II.
Return to your hotel for dinner.
Day 4 (B, L, D,)
After breakfast, you'll embark on a 5 hour journey to Agra, a city steeped in Mughal history and grandeur. Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little village of Agra into the second capital of the Mughal Empire during the 16th and 17th centuries, bestowing upon it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat (Seat of the Emperor).
Today, Agra is a captivating blend of contrasting edifices of red sandstone and white marble, narrow alleys, quaint buggies, and an irresistible charm that still echoes the splendor of its Mughal heritage. As you stroll through the bustling streets, the wafting aroma of sensational Mughlai cuisine will tempt your senses.
After lunch, you'll visit the majestic Agra Fort, built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in AD 1565. This impressive fort, made predominantly of red sandstone, features vast halls that echo the voices of a bygone era, transporting visitors back through the passage of time.
Next, you'll continue to the iconic Taj Mahal, an architectural wonder and the heart and soul of every visit to Agra. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal is a white marble memorial to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to complete and was designed by the Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj Mahal is renowned for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens, and some of the finest inlay work ever done.
Before returning to your hotel, you'll have the opportunity to visit a local handicraft shop, where you can admire and purchase exquisite souvenirs. Dinner will be served at your hotel.
Day 5 (B, L, D,)
Start your day with an unforgettable experience as you proceed to the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Witness the breathtaking beauty of this iconic monument bathed in the soft morning light, creating a magical and serene atmosphere.
After this awe-inspiring visit, return to your hotel for breakfast. Following check-out, you'll embark on a four and a half-hour drive back to Delhi. Upon arrival, you'll check in to your hotel and enjoy lunch.
The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure, allowing you to unwind and explore Delhi at your own pace. Whether you choose to relax at the hotel or venture out to discover more of the city's vibrant culture, the choice is yours.
As the day ends, dinner will be at your hotel.
Day 6 (B, L, D,)
After breakfast, prepare for a tour of Old Delhi, a chaotic yet sense-awakening experience. Your first stop is the Jama Masjid, the royal mosque built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1656. This magnificent mosque, constructed from red sandstone and white marble, is one of the largest and most beautiful in the world. Its main prayer hall can accommodate more than 20,000 worshippers, making it a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Next, you'll experience a cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, the bustling spine of Old Delhi. As you navigate through the vibrant streets, you'll walk through the bylanes of the spice market, wedding street, and Jewelers lane. Designed by Jahanara Begum, the daughter of Shah Jahan, this commercial hub has been a lively center since 1648.
Continue past the Red Fort, another masterpiece built by Shah Jahan in 1648. This magnificent monument, constructed from red sandstone, is laid out along the River Yamuna as an irregular octagon, showcasing the grandeur of Mughal architecture.
Lunch will be served at a prominent city restaurant, offering a taste of Delhi's culinary delights. In the afternoon, embark on your tour of New Delhi. You'll visit Humayun’s Tomb, the first great example of Mughal architecture in India, which set the benchmark for the Mughal Dynasty's architectural style.
Later, drive through the majestic boulevards of New Delhi, designed by Edwin Lutyens in 1920. Lutyens' Delhi includes grand government buildings and the parliament house, reflecting the city's imperial heritage.
Return to your hotel for dinner.
Day 7 (B)
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport in Delhi to board your flight to the stunning island paradise of Male. As you settle into your flight, light snacks will be served on board, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Upon arrival in Male, you will be transferred back to your cruise ship.
Hotels: (or similar)
Delhi: The Oberoi
Agra: The Oberoi Amarvilas
Jaipur: The Oberoi Rajvilas
60 Days prior to arrival in the excursion port. This excursion is non-refundable within 60 days of arrival into the excursion port. Any cancellations made after this deadline will be subject to full payment of the tour. This will include if a guest cancels their voyage within 60 days of arrival into the excursion port.
Notes:
This tour involves a high level of physical activity. Guests should be in good physical condition to participate. There will be significant walking and climbing involved. There will be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs. Be prepared for high heat, humidity, and potential rain. The trails can become slippery in wet conditions. Sturdy, non-slip walking or hiking shoes are recommended. Light clothing, a long-sleeved shirt, and a hat for sun protection is also recommended, along with insect repellent & sunscreen. This tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility limitations, heart conditions, or respiratory issues. Guests should assess their physical condition before deciding to participate. The contents and order of activities in this program are subject to change. Tour operates subject to meeting a minimum number of participants. Airport assistance and transfers, transportation by air-conditioned coach, all entrance fees indicated in the itinerary, an English-speaking guide (unless otherwise noted), water on the vehicle, and meals (as indicated) are also included. Gratuities and personal expenses are not included. Bring your passport with you on tour. A minimum number of participants is needed to run this overland.
Visas:
All guests must carry a valid Indian tourist visa. Visa's need to be obtained prior to embarkation. Kindly note that it is the responsibility of guests to ensure they possess the necessary visas for all countries that will be included in their Overland Adventure or Overnight trips, as well as for re-joining the ship at the designated location. Holland America does not provide visa procurement services and therefore, guests are advised to obtain the required visas independently before embarking on their journey.If you require further assistance, Holland America Line's preferred visa service is CIBTvisas. Residents of the USA and Canada phone: 866-935-8472; or email: hollandamerica@cibtvisas.com . CIBTvisas' phone numbers and email addresses for residents of Australia, Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions section of our website, in the Cruise Preparation area. Applications and additional information can be downloaded from the CIBTvisas website at https://CIBTvisas.com/hollandamerica . You must advise CIBTvisas of your Overland Adventures or Overnights, as the visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise.
Breathing devices:
There are stringent regulations regarding the transportation of breathing/respiratory devices for any purpose during tours or overland trips. Guests intending to bring such a device must notify the home office or shore excursion staff at least 30 days before the start of the tour. They are required to fill out the necessary FAA documentation, furnish a physician's authorized letter detailing the device's particular use, and provide information about the device. It is imperative to understand that each airline will conduct an inspection of the device before boarding to ensure compliance, which may result in delays at the airport.