Jewels Of Central India
From cultural discoveries to breathtaking natural wonders, this itinerary is designed to inspire every type of traveller. Each experience has been carefully selected to offer meaningful insight, memorable stories, and a deeper connection to the places you visit.
Fly from UK to Delhi.
Arrive Delhi in the morning. Meeting and assistance on arrival by our representative and transfer to The Claridges Hotel for 1 night stay. Afternoon sightseeing includes visiting the 16th C. Humayun’s Tomb; driving past the impressive India Gate, designed by Lutyens and dedicated to the 90,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died in World War I. Finally visit the Bangla Sahib Sikh temple which feeds thousands of people every day through its huge community kitchen.
The Salaam Baalak Trust City Walk is a guided tour taken by ex-street kids of Delhi. The programme has enabled children to re-join mainstream life. Afternoon drive to Agra & check-in at Grand Imperial for 2 nights.
At sunrise watch the first rays of the sun caress the iconic Taj Mahal. Wander the gardens and explore the exquisite interior. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Then visit Agra Fort- a remarkable building stamped with the majestic authority of the fabled Mughal Emperors. Afternoon a guided heritage walk of Agra. This walk takes you through the old market and adjoining areas to feel the pulse of the real Agra. In the evening visit Sheroes Hangout Cafe. Here, women, survivors of heinous acid attacks, find empowerment and the ability to regain their dignity. They’ve formed a reader’s cafe, an activism workshop, community radio hub and an exhibit space where works crafted by Sheores are on display.
After breakfast drive to Gwalior. Check in at Taj Usha Kiran Palace for an overnight stay. Afternoon visit the imposing Gwalior Fort, famously described as `The Pearl amongst Fortresses` in India. Perched on a hilltop the fort is an architectural marvel of the 8th C. In the evening a heritage walk of Gwalior to savour the history and culture.
Morning Shatabdi express train to Bhopal and stay at The Jehan Numa Palace for 2 nights. Afternoon at leisure.
Morning heritage walk of old Bhopal city. The City of Nawabs, Bhopal, is known for its rich historical past. Exploring on foot lets you get close to the city’s cultural heritage. Visit includes the Moti Masjid, Iqbal Maidan, Gauhar Mahal, Sadar Manzil and the Shaukat Mahal. Afternoon sightseeing includes Bharat Bhavan for its wonderful collection of contemporary and tribal art, and the Tribal Museum – situated in a prehistoric site strewn with numerous painted rock shelters dating back to the Mesolithic times.
Morning drive to Maheshwar & check-in at The Ahilya Fort for 4 nights stay. This heritage Fort has been sympathetically converted into a beautiful character hotel with all the modern amenities and comforts.
A day visit to Mandu, also called ‘The City of Joy’. Mandu is an ancient Fort city celebrated for its architecture. The vast 37km of fortified wall is punctuated by 12 gateways. See the Hoshandshah Gori, considered to be the template for the Taj Mahal and the Ship Palace believed to have been constructed to house a harem of 15,000 ladies! Mandu is also famed for the delightful love story of Baz Bahadur and Rupmati.
After breakfast sightseeing of Maheshwar – the Temple town – situated on the banks of the River Narmada. It’s believed to have been in existence since the very beginning of Indian civilization and was mentioned in the epics of the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Explore the riverside Temples, visit the 16th.C. Fort with its archaeological museum. Finally relax on a sunset boat ride to Baneshwar Temple, considered to be the Centre of the Universe.
After breakfast a boat ride across the Narmada River to the two sleepy villages of Naodatodi and Bothu. Enjoy a fascinating walk through a typical regional village to get a feeling of local life and activities. Afternoon visit the Rehwa Society and The Ahilya School. The not-for-profit Rehwa Society was started in the late ’70s by the Holkars, with the objective of reviving the ancient hand weaving craft of Maheshwar – and giving employment to women. Today over 80 weavers are at work and their textiles are famous throughout India. Surplus profit from the sale of textiles supports the adjoining Ahilya School, which was started for weavers’ children.
After breakfast drive to Ellora & check-in at Dhyaana Farms for an overnight stay. Dhyaana Farms – An off-grid, solar-powered retreat where rustic design meets sustainability. With organic farming, rainwater harvesting, and farm-to-table dining, it offers an authentic eco-living experience. Afternoon visit Ellora caves. The incredible 34 rock-cut shrines represent Buddhist, Hindu and Jain art dating from the 4th to 9th C. AD. The most remarkable is the Kailash Temple – a replica of Lord Shivas celestial abode, Kailash. The craftsmanship is outstanding.
Morning visit Ajanta caves, dating from around 200 BC to 650 AD. As Buddhism gradually declined, the Ajanta Caves were abandoned and gradually forgotten. In 1819 a British hunting party stumbled upon them and they were rediscovered for the world. Ajanta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Dhyaana Farms and relax until evening transfer to the airport to fly to Mumbai. Check-in at Trident Hotel for 2 nights.
Morning sightseeing of Mumbai includes The Gateway of India, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, the Marine Drive, Mani Bhavan- a modest two-storied Building which served as Gandhiji’s Bombay headquarters for roughly seventeen years. Also see the Dhobi Ghat- an open-air laundry in Mumbai.
Transfer to the airport to board return flight back home
Our India itineraries are designed to showcase the country’s richness without feeling overwhelming. Travel at a considered pace, with expert guides who bring history, culture, and everyday life into focus. From classic routes such as the Golden Triangle to lesser-known regions and thematic journeys, every tour is personalised to reflect your interests and preferred style of travel.
To help you plan your journey with confidence, the FAQs below provide essential travel information for UK travellers visiting India, including visa requirements, passport validity, health guidance, and practical advice for travelling around the country.
Yes. UK passport holders must obtain a visa in advance to travel to India. Most travellers apply for an e-Visa, which can be arranged online prior to departure.
The length of stay depends on the visa type issued. Tourist e-Visas typically allow stays of up to 30, 90, or 180 days, depending on the visa selected.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival in India and contain at least two blank pages.
Yes. India can be enjoyed by first-time visitors when travel is well planned. Guided tours, private drivers, and carefully paced itineraries help ensure a comfortable and rewarding experience.
The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels and larger establishments, but cash is widely used, particularly in smaller towns and markets.
India is generally safe for tourists, particularly when travelling with reputable operators and guides. As with any destination, travellers should take standard precautions, especially in busy urban areas.
No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry, but travellers are advised to be up to date with routine vaccinations. Medical advice should be sought before travel, particularly for longer stays.
Lightweight, modest clothing is recommended. Covering shoulders and knees is advised, especially when visiting temples, mosques, and rural areas. Comfortable footwear is essential for sightseeing.
The best time to visit most regions of India is between October and March, when temperatures are cooler and conditions are ideal for travel. Climate varies by region.
Yes. India has an extensive network of domestic flights, trains, and private road transport. Guided travel and private drivers are commonly used for comfort and convenience.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, covering medical treatment, cancellations, and any planned activities.
Yes. India offers a wide range of experiences suitable for families, couples, and honeymooners, from cultural tours and wildlife safaris to heritage stays and scenic retreats.
