13-Day India and Maldives Odyssey

Our journey begins in New Delhi, the vibrant capital city of India, where we will be greeted upon arrival and transferred to our hotel. After settling into our room, we will have some time to rest and recharge before starting our adventures in the days ahead.

New Delhi is famous for its rich history, diverse culture, and bustling energy, and we can't wait to explore all this incredible destination has to offer. From the delicious street food to the stunning architecture, New Delhi is a feast for the senses, and we will have plenty of opportunities to immerse ourselves in the local culture.

Accommodation: Maidens Hotel New Delhi (Heritage room)

Explore Delhi's blend of old and new as we kick off at the awe-inspiring Jama Masjid, India's largest 16th-century marble mosque. Followed by a lively rickshaw ride through historic Chandni Chowk, immerse in local culture. Passing India Gate, honoring WWI Indian soldiers, delves into our shared history. Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO site, showcases Mughal splendor, while Qutab Minar's victory tower crowns the day, revealing India's Muslim heritage. 

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Maidens Hotel New Delhi (Heritage room)

Embark on a journey to Agra, the city of the iconic Taj Mahal. Settling into our hotel, we'll delve into the city's heritage. The afternoon takes us to Agra Fort, a royal residence for centuries, showcasing grand halls and palaces like Jahangir Palace and Diwan-i-Khas. A UNESCO site, it unravels Mughal opulence.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Taj View Agra (Superior room city view)

We start at the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, Emperor Shah Jahan's white marble tribute to his wife, Mumtaz. Exploring this UNESCO site, we'll delve into its love story and intricate beauty. Our journey then leads to Jaipur, Rajasthan's lively capital. En route, we pause at Fatehpur Sikri, a red sandstone Mughal capital, admiring its palaces and mosques.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Indana Palace Jaipur (Executive room)

Today, we immerse in Jaipur, the "Pink City." Starting at Amber Fort, a hilltop marvel blending Rajput and Mughal styles, we'll relish hill and countryside vistas. Next, the City Palace Museum unveils royal art, narrating Jaipur's history. Hawa Mahal's latticework, allowing discreet street viewing, precedes the Jantar Mantar observatory. Later, we'll delve into local life at a lively market, experiencing Henna Tattoo Painting and connecting with Jaipur's vibrant culture.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Indana Palace Jaipur (Executive room)

After breakfast, we will say goodbye to the beautiful Pink City and take a flight to the bustling metropolis of Mumbai. As we arrive in Mumbai, we will be greeted with the city's vibrant energy and impressive skyline, signaling the start of our next adventure in this bustling city.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Trident Nariman Point (Premier room)

Welcome to Mumbai, the bustling city known for its vibrant culture and stunning coastal views. Our tour will begin at the iconic Gateway of India, a historic arch built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V to India. We will take a scenic ferry ride on the Arabian Sea to the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with magnificent rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. After exploring the caves, we will visit the Prince of Wales Museum, an impressive building that houses a vast collection of art, sculptures, and artifacts across India. From here, we will take a leisurely drive along Marine Drive, a stunning promenade that offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Along the way, we will pass by several notable landmarks, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus), a grand Gothic-style railway station, and the Bombay High Court, a majestic building that reflects the city's colonial past. Before returning to our hotel, we will stroll through Crawford Market, a bustling wholesale market that sells a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and poultry.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Trident Nariman Point (Premier room)

Begin your day with a visit to the Babu Amichand Panalal Adishwarji Jain Temple, renowned for its beautiful dome ceiling painted with zodiac signs. Built in 1904, it is one of the most stunning temples in Mumbai. Afterward, head to Dhobi Ghat, a unique outdoor laundry where you will see rows of concrete wash pens, each fitted with its flogging stone. This is an opportunity to witness hundreds of laundry workers washing clothes in a traditional manner, and it makes for a photographer's delight. Next, visit Mani Bhawan, the two-storied building where Mahatma Gandhi stayed on his visits to Mumbai. Now a museum and research center, it offers an insight into the life and work of one of India's greatest leaders. Drive past the Hanging Gardens, which offer stunning city views. Later in the afternoon, indulge in shopping on a market tour of the city. Start at Crawford Market, where locals do most of their shopping for wholesale fruit and vegetables. The market, housed in a historic colonial building, also has a pet section. Continue to Colaba Market, where you can shop for bangles, clothes, and trinkets. You can even get your name engraved on a grain of rice. The street is lined with restaurants, cafes, and roadside eateries such as Delhi Darbar, Piccadilly, Cafe Churchill, Mings Palace, and Cafe Leopold. Finally, visit Zaveri Bazaar, Mumbai's oldest bullion market, renowned for its silver jewelry and gold and diamond retail centers. Each shop offers excellent, international-quality jewelry ranging from simple glass bangles and classical necklaces to ornate folk art and elaborate costume jewelry.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Trident Nariman Point (Premier room)

After breakfast, we will say goodbye to Mumbai and catch a flight to the Maldives. Upon arrival at the Velana International Airport, take a 15-minute speedboat transfer to your resort on a private island in the Laccadive Sea.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton (Sky room)

Today is free to relax and enjoy the beautiful SAii Lagoon Maldives resort. Take advantage of all the resort's amenities, including the white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and various water activities like snorkeling and kayaking. You may also explore the island's local culture and cuisine by visiting nearby villages or trying some traditional Maldivian dishes.

Meals: Breakfast.

Accommodation: SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton (Sky room)

Today is a free day in the Maldives. A free coral propagation program, dolphin class, sustainable fishing, and Emma the Turtle Discovery at Marine Discovery Center help preserve and enhance the Maldives' unique marine ecosystem.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton (Sky room)

Take a day to relax in the Maldives. A daily complimentary Maldives Cultural Center tour guided by local staff to learn more about the ocean and the Maldives at the Maldives Discovery Center.

Meals: Breakfast.

Accommodation: SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton (Sky room)

We'll check out of the SAii Lagoon Maldives resort and transfer to the airport for our flight home.

Meal: Breakfast