Grand Tour of India

  • history
    DURATION
    29 days, 28 nights
  • history
    DURATION DAYS
    29 days
  • history
    DURATION NIGHTS
    28 nights
  • calendar_month
  • calendar_month
    DEPARTURE MONTHS
    October 2025 - November 2026
  • D​iscover the magnificent artistic treasures of the Ajanta & Ellora caves
  • E​mbark on a camel ride into the Thar Desert
  • E​xperience the backwaters of Kerala

Become acquainted with one of the most vibrant countries in the world. Embark on a journey, from the deserts of Rajasthan in the north, to the backwaters of Kerala in the south to experience the land of extraordinary contrasts.

Kathkali Dance Performance - Witness an exuberant performance of the traditional dance-drama that is Kathakali. Kerala's best-known performing art, it is an extravagant retelling of Hindu epics complete with colourful costumes and elaborate make up.

Thar Desert Camel Tour - Embark on a camel cart ride out into the starkly beautiful landscapes of the Thar Desert – though it may appear barren, you’ll find the desert is surprisingly full of things to see.

Ajanta and Ellora Caves - Surprisingly little known outside of India, discover the magnificent artistic treasures of the Ajanta and Ellora caves, a series of caverns full of intricate frescoes and carvings created by Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monks

Australia - Delhi (2N) - Varanasi (2N) - Khajuraho (1N) - Jhansi - Agra (2N) - Ranthambore (2N) - Jaipur (2N) - Pushkar (1N) - Khmisar (1N) - Jaisalmer (2N) - Jodhpur (2N) - Udaipur (2N) - Aurangbad (2N) - Mumbai (1N) - Kochi (2N) - Houseboat (1N) - Kovalam (2N) - Trivandrum - Australia

Photos

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Itinerary Map

Inclusions/Exclusions

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  • International flights and current taxes (prices may vary depending on departure city)
  • All Meals (refer to itinerary)
  • Breakfasts: 27 /Lunches: 26 /Dinners: 27
  • Domestic transportation
  • Touring with guides and entrance fees
  • 3 – 4 star accommodation, plus houseboat
  • Visa fees for Australian passport holders
Your fare excludes:
  • T​ravel insurance

Itinerary

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    Day 1: Fly To Delhi

    Fly to Delhi. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours at leisure.

    Includes: Dinner

    Day 2: Explore Delhi

    Explore Old Delhi; see the Red Fort and walk to Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. After lunch, view India Gate and Parliament House before exploring Gandhi Smriti and Qutab Minar.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Days 3-4: Discover Varanasi

    Fly to the ancient city of Varanasi. Head just out of town to the fascinating Buddhist site of Sarnath, where Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon. The next day, rise early to cruise on the Ganges and explore the city. Later take a rickshaw to the ghats and witness a puja ceremony.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 5: Explore Khajuraho's Temples

    Transfer to the airport to fly to Khajuraho to see the exquisite temples and their intricately carved, erotic imagery. Enjoy a cultural dance display.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 6: Travel To Agra

    Travel to the 16th-century city of Orchha and then on to Jhansi station where you'll board the Shatabdi Express train to Agra.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 7: Taj Mahal

    Watch the sun rise over the Taj Mahal which is often swathed in mist and tinged pink – a magical experience. This afternoon visit the colossal 16th-century Agra Fort.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Days 8-9: Ranthambore

    Visit the ghost city of Fatephur Sikri on the way to Ranthambore National Park, home to many animals such as leopards, hyena, bears and tigers. The next day enjoy both an early morning and afternoon safari.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Days 10-11: Jaipur

    Journey to the 'Pink City' of Jaipur for a two-night stay. Visit the Maharaja's City Palace and Jantar Mantar Observatory on the day you arrive. The following day, make a brief stop at the Hawa Mahal - the ‘Palace of the Winds’- before admiring the majestic Amber Fort.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Days 12: Pushkar

    Travel to Pushkar, a sacred pilgrimage destination for Hindus. This afternoon visit its sacred lake, ghats and the Brahma Temple before a camel cart ride in the desert.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 13: Khimsar

    After breakfast drive to Khimsar, perched on the edge on the great Thar Desert. Later explore the local area in Khimsar to get a glimpse of life in rural India.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Days 14-15: Discover Jaisalmer

    Rising from the sandy plains of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is known as the 'Golden City'. Head to Sunset Point to enjoy the views. The next day head to the magnificent Jaisalmer fort, and ride a camel through the Sam Sand Dunes.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Days 16-17: Jodhpur & Around

    Travel to Jodhpur and tour the city, exploring the magnificence of Mehrangarh Fort, visiting the museum of Umaid Bhawan Palace and the spice market. The next day drive through the desert by jeep to Bishnoi village.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Days 18-19: Romantic Udaipur

    Drive to Udaipur via the Jain temple complex of Ranakpur and Surya Temple as well as other Jain Temples. The next day explore the city, driving around Fateh Sagar Lake with stops at the Folk Museum, Mewar Art Gallery and Sahelion Ki Bari Garden. Later visit the ornate City Palace and take a cruise on the shimmering Lake Pichola.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 20: Aurangabad

    Morning at leisure before boarding a flight to Aurangabad.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Days 21: Ajanta

    Visit the incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ajanta.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 22: Ellora Caves

    Travel to Ellora Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage listed site. Fly to Mumbai.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 23: Discover Mumbai

    Tour cosmopolitan Mumbai, India's economic powerhouse. View the Gateway to India, dawdle along Marine Drive and visit Chowpatty Beach, Mani Bhavan, Dhobi Ghat, Crawford Market and Flora Fountain. Fly to the relaxed Keralan city of Kochi.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 24: Explore Kochi

    Fascinating Kochi is strung across the islands and peninsulas of the Malabar coast. Visit the Dutch Palace and Fort Kochi before seeing the famous Chinese fishing nets and strolling through colourful markets. This evening enjoy an exuberant Kathakali dance performance.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 25: Kerala's Backwaters

    Visit Kochi's synagogue, before heading out of the city to Nedumudy to board your houseboat. On this converted rice barge or 'kettuvallam' you will drift along the peaceful backwaters. Lunch and dinner are served on-board and you will stay overnight here too.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 26: Travel To Kovalam

    Enjoy breakfast as you cruise into Alleppey, then travel to the beach resort of Kovalam.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 27: Visit Trivandrum

    Explore Kerala's capital Trivandrum, with visits to Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the Zoological Gardens, Sri Chitra Art Gallery, the Observatory and Kanakakunnu Palace. Return to Kovalam for your final night stay.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Days 28-29: Fly Trivandrum To Australia

    Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day.

    Includes: Breakfast

* The above itinerary is subject to change.

Dates and Prices

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  • 02 Oct 2025 - 29 Oct 2025
    from $13,980 pp twin share / $16,780 pp solo
  • 16 Oct 2025 - 12 Nov 2025
    from $13,980 $13,330 pp twin share / $16,780 / $16,130 pp solo
  • 30 Oct 2025 - 26 Nov 2025
    from $13,980 $13,330 pp twin share / $16,780 / $16,130 pp solo
  • 19 Feb 2026 - 18 Mar 2026
    from $14,580 $13,930 pp twin share / $17,520 / $16,870 pp solo
  • 12 Mar 2026 - 08 Apr 2026
    from $14,580 pp twin share / $17,520 pp solo
  • 01 Oct 2026 - 28 Oct 2026
    from $14,580 pp twin share / $17,520 pp solo
  • 15 Oct 2026 - 11 Nov 2026
    from $14,580 $13,930 pp twin share / $17,520 / $16,870 pp solo
  • 29 Oct 2026 - 25 Nov 2026
    from $14,580 $13,930 pp twin share / $17,520 / $16,870 pp solo

Advertised pricing subject to departure date and availability. Please call 1300 414 198 to confirm up-to-the-moment availability and pricing.

Accommodation

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The Park Hotel - New Delhi, India
The Park Hotel, New Delhi, highly rated among the luxury five star hotels in Delhi is situated in the heart of the city centre's entertainment hub - Connaught Place. The hotel boasts luxurious and stylish en-suite rooms fitted with modern amenities, and access to indulgent restaurants, a day gym, spa and salon.

The Amayaa - Varanasi, India
Located within close proximity to the Varanasi City Railway Station, JHV Mall and Nehru Park, The Amayaa Hotel offers guest a premium stay, boasting modern interiors and an array of facilities for guests to enjoy. Leisure time can be spent at the pool, fitness centre or spa. Delight in multi-cuisines served at the hotel restaurant before unwinding at one of the lounge bars.

Ramada, Khajuraho - Khajuraho
This modern hotel is just 5 minutes from the airport. Relax around the swimming pool after a day exploring the temples, try out the gym or have a treatment in the spa. In the evening try out one of the two restaurants, both of which serve both local and international cuisine, before heading to the bar for a nightcap. There is also an inhouse disco. The contemporary style rooms have marble floors and air-conditioning as well as television, safe, minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. The en suite bathroom has either a bath or shower.

Clarks Shiraz - Agra, India
Overlooking the Taj and Agra Fort, The 5* Hotel Clarks Shiraz, is located 2 km from the Taj Mahal, in the heart of Agra. Spread over 8 landscaped acres, the hotel comprises of 237 fully renovated en-suite rooms, with modern amenities including a flat-screen TV, air conditioning and minibar.The hotel also offers an array of delicious cuisine, ranging from Mughlai, Continental, and Chinese at its various restaurants.

Shergarh - Ranthambore, India
Located a short distance from Ranthambhore National Park, also know as the Tiger inhabited wildlife sanctuary of Rajasthan, the 4* Shergarh makes for a fantastic hotel boasting stunning views of the wilderness. The hotel also offers guests a range of facilities, including a tranquil swimming pool, a relaxing spa and steam room.

Ramada Jaipur - Jaipur, India
Located within the city centre and a short 15-minute drive from Jaipur Railway Station, the 4* Ramada Jaipur is a modern hotel featuring a range of amenities, including a mini-bar and coffee maker. Leisure time can be spent relaxing at the rooftop outdoor pool, gym or spa. Other facilities include a restaurant servicing flavours from around the world as well as delicious barbecue and grilled dishes served at the roof top grill.

Khimsar Fort - Khimsar, India
Conveniently located in close proximity to popular landmarks such as Kanak Bihari Temple and Kalki Temple, be transported to Khimsar Fort, an ancestral home to The Royal Family of Khimsar. This 15th Century fort also features a swimming pool, spa facilities with sauna, a fitness centre and recreational activities such as snooker and home theatre. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with a modern yet traditional theme throughout.

Heritage Inn - Jaisalmer. India
The 4* Heritage Inn Hotel boasts modern interiors beautifully blended with inspiration from the city of Jaisalmer within a cottage style setting. On-site you will find a restaurant serving a wide range of cuisines to suit all tastes, a bar and outdoor swimming pool. At Heritage Inn, you will also be able to benefit from a 24-hour front desk and 24-hour room service.

Fairfield by Marriott - Jodhpur, India
Located in close proximity to popular attractions, such as the Umaid Bhawan Palace, Clock Tower Market and Mandore Garden, Fairfield by Marriott is the perfect hotel inspired by the sights and colours of Rajasthan. Relax in a contemporary hotel room equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, coffee/ tea maker and minbar. There is also plenty to do during your leisure time, as the hotel offers a modern fitness centre, gift shop and restaurant that will have you delight in the flavours of Jodhpur.

Hilltop Palace - Udaipur, India
Hotel Hilltop Palace is situated atop Ambavgarh Hill, overlooking Lake Fatehsagar and the historic Udaipur Town. The hotel offers 62 tasteful rooms with modern amenities, including air-conditioning, a safety deposit box and television. The hotel boasts an on-site restaurant serving Northern Indian cuisine, as well as Rajasthani Folk dances arranged on request.

Ambassador Ajanta - Aurangabad, India
Ambassador Ajanta is located in the heart of the city centre in a unique location with more than 13 acres of lush greenery right in the middle of the business district. The 92 en-suite rooms offer an intimate, full-service experience, with amenities including; access to Wi-Fi and a safety deposit box. The hotel’s onsite restaurant also offers delicious Indian, Chinese and European dishes.

T&Cs

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Travel at 60 and supplier booking conditions apply.

    • Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2024. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
    • Customary tipping amount of approximately US$180pp (AU$269pp) is paid locally in India.
    • Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
    • Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
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Prices per person from

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A$16,130