Compare Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Dubai, Southern India & Varanasi by Globus vs UAE & India in 15 days - Luxury Dubai & Rajasthan - LUXURY by Exoticca
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4.5 | Great
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| Duration | 20 days | 15 days |
| Price From | $ 3,849 | $ 3,999 |
| Price Per Day | $ 192 | $ 267 |
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| Trip Style | Group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Flights & Transport | No | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | 14 breakfasts and 1 dinner in Dubai. |
| Description | Discover India, a diverse country filled with a long history, a variety of languages, amazing monuments, and a rich cultural heritage. But first, stop off in Dubai to spend time discovering its many souks (markets) and explore this exciting city on your own. Then, head to India to visit some of its most famous sights and get to know the culture through special experiences. Of course, you’ll visit the Taj Mahal, built by Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife. Built from 1631-1648 AD, he employed thousands of artisans and craftsmen as well as a labor force of 20,000. You’ll get the chance to see this amazing structure at sunrise, plus Agra Fort, the 16th-century red sandstone fortress where Moghul rulers lived. In 1876, Jaipur was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales, and it has been known as the “Pink City” ever since. Here, visit the Amber Fort, built in 1592 with white marble and red sandstone.Remarkable structures are just part of India’s appeal. On this India tour, you’ll enjoy a rickshaw ride through a colorful local bazaar (a unique adventure included by Globus), a cooking demonstration of Indian food, and a home-hosted dinner with an Indian noble family—an out-of-the-ordinary experience offered by Globus. Another tour highlight is a visit to Ranthambore National Park. Here, three game drives give you an opportunity to see native wildlife, including the elusive leopard and Bengal tiger. You’ll also visit Mumbai, home to “Bollywood,” and Cochin, where you’ll take a cruise on the backwaters of Kerala to witness life along the scenic and serene waterways.If you’re interested in the different religions in India, you’ll get a chance to learn more inVaranasi. Here you’ll board a boat to watch the Hindu’s devotional bathing in the Ganges. Observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge. You’ll also witness the spritiual Gagna Aarti ceremony in the evening along the river.These are just a few of the many highlights offered on this marvelous India tour with Dubai. If you’re a traveler looking for a new adventure, this is the vacation for you! |
Discover Dubai, the cosmopolitan city of luxury. Fly to the land of a thousand colors and experience the multicultural city of Delhi. Explore the historic cities of Mandawa and Bikaner, the pink city of Jaipur and admire the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra - one of The Seven Wonders of the World. In Rajasthan, the golden city of Jaisalmer, The Thar Desert and the mystic Jodhpur Fort. |
Day 1
ARRIVE IN DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES. Welcome to Dubai! Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Day 2
DUBAI. This morning, your GUIDED SIGHTSEEING begins with a WALKING TOUR through the narrow lanes of the historic Bastakiya Quarter. Next, explore the souks (markets), including the SPICE SOUK with its aromas of exotic spices, and the GOLD SOUK with its 220 glittering shop windows. Lastly, visit BURJ KHALIFA, the world’s tallest building. Here, ascend to the AT THE TOP observation deck on the 124th floor for spectacular views and a presentation on Dubai’s history. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)NOTE:Many sites in Dubai are closed on Fridays. In these instances, today’s sightseeing will take place on day 3.
Day 3
DUBAI. Enjoy a full day at your leisure. Your Local Host will be happy to make suggestions on how to make the most of your time. (B)
Day 4
DUBAI–MUMBAI, INDIA. Today, fly to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a colorful history. This vibrant city is now India’s premier seaport, center of culture and industry, and home to “Bollywood.” Your hotel room is available for mid-afternoon check-in. (B)
Day 5
MUMBAI. This morning’s GUIDED TOUR includes the GATEWAY OF INDIA, Mumbai’s most famous monument, which commemorates a visit by Queen Mary. From here, cross Mumbai Harbor by ferry to the ELEPHANTA CAVES (closed Mondays), a collection of cave temples dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Mumbai and drive along Marine Drive, a seafront promenade, and see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (an open-air laundromat). You will also visit the MANI BHAVAN (former residence of Mahatma Gandhi) and the MUMBAI MUSEUM (closed Mondays). (B,L)
Day 6
MUMBAI–COCHIN. Fly to Cochin. (B)
Day 7
COCHIN. Your GUIDED TOUR starts with the Chinese Fishing Nets—the livelihood of many local fishermen—and a walk through the Jewish quarter. Next, visit the KERALA FOLKLORE MUSEUM which aims to preserve and educate people about the unique culture and heritage of South India. This afternoon, enjoy an unforgettable CRUISE on the backwaters of Kerala. Explore and witness local life along these serene waterways surrounded by lush palm trees and paddy fields. (B,L)
Day 8
COCHIN–DELHI. Today, fly to Delhi. (B)
Day 9
DELHI. Today’s sightseeing starts with an orientation drive to see the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Afterward, take a [LF] RICKSHAW RIDE through Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar. Here, ancient alleyways are lined with quaint shops selling all sorts of goods and souvenirs—from silver and saris to spices and electronics. After lunch in a local restaurant, visit QUTUB MINAR, the world’s tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner that includes a COOKING DEMONSTRATION and talk on Indian cuisine with a local chef. (B,L,D)
Day 10
DELHI–AGRA. This morning, visit HUMAYUN’S TOMB and GURUDWARA BANGLA SAHIB, Delhi’s largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship). After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in for the evening. (B,L)
Day 11
AGRA. Start your day with a sunrise visit to the incomparable TAJ MAHAL, an extravagant marble monument to love. Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth. Later, travel to AGRA FORT, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces. (B)
Day 12
AGRA–FATEHPUR SIKRI–RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK. Today, stop at FATEHPUR SIKRI (the City of Victory), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century it was the capital of the Mughal Empire for only some 10 years before it was completely abandoned due to the lack of adequate water. After lunch in Bharatpur, board a TRAIN bound for RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK, one of the best places in India to spot the elusive Bengal tiger! (B,L,D)
Day 13
RANTHAMBORE. Today, explore the park on MORNING & AFTERNOON GAME DRIVES in an open-air safari vehicle. In addition to Bengal tigers, the park is home to leopard, sambar deer, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, striped hyena, and more. Between game drives, enjoy free time to relax. (B,L,D)
Day 14
RANTHAMBORE–JAIPUR. Rise early this morning for one last GAME DRIVE in this magical land. Then, travel to Jaipur. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales, and it has been known as the “Pink City” ever since. Tonight, enjoy a [LF] HOME-HOSTED DINNER with an Indian noble family, followed by a SARI- and TURBAN-TYING demonstration. (B,D)
Day 15
JAIPUR. Today, visit the amazing AMBER FORT, built entirely of white marble and red sandstone. Tour the interior with its intricate mosaics, carvings, paintings, and mirror works. This afternoon, visit the CITY PALACE and the adjoining MUSEUM, which houses a collection of rare manuscripts. Also, stop at JANTAR MANTAR and the famous HAWA MAHAL (Palace of the Winds). Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a festive farewell dinner to celebrate your journey through India. (B,D)
Day 16
JAIPUR–DELHI. Fly back to Delhi. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)
Day 17
DELHI–VARANASI. Today, fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities, situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. This evening, your PRIVATE GUIDED SIGHTSEEING witnesses the GANGA AARTI (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the Ganges. (B)
Day 18
VARANASI. Around dawn, board a BOAT and watch a striking religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. Observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, some practicing yoga, others meditating, and still others bathing fully clothed. Return to your hotel for breakfast and some free time. This evening, your GUIDED SIGHTSEEING witnesses the GANGA AARTI (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the Ganges. (B)
Day 19
VARANASI–DELHI. Enjoy the morning at leisure before flying back to Delhi. (B)
Day 20
DELHI. Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Day 1: US - Night on board
Arrive at your US departure airport ready to check-in for an overnight flight * to Dubai. Night on board.* * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.
Day 2: Dubai
Arrive in Dubai and transfer to the hotel.* The remainder of the day is free to discover this modern Emirati metropolis at your leisure. We recommend visiting the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world and a symbol of the city of 828 meters and 160 floors. Since its inauguration in 2010, it offers the best views of the desert and the city. Underneath is the largest shopping center in the world, the Dubai Mall where 1200 stores of all kinds are located. A shopping paradise! Overnight stay in Dubai. * You will have the option to add early check-in on arrival in Dubai (before 3:00 p.m.) in the next step of the booking process.
Day 3: Dubai
Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy the morning at your leisure, exploring the old town or sunning yourself on Dubai's idyllic beaches. We recommend an optional excursion to explore the older parts of the city.* At dusk, take an exciting 4x4 excursion to the desert. Pass through camel farms and spectacular desert landscapes, as the sand dunes are illuminated at sunset until arriving at a traditional camp. Here, enjoy a delicious barbeque dinner under the stars with traditional entertainment including Belly Dancing,* waterpipes and camel rides. Return to the hotel and overnight stay in Dubai. * Optional Half-Day Classic Dubai Tour: Visit the Bastakia neighbourhood, home to old merchant houses and cafes, and learn about Dubai's history with included entrance to the Dubai Museum. Take a traditional river taxi, known as an 'Abra' across Dubai Creek to the aromatic souks of Old Dubai, filled with stalls selling exotic spices and golden wares. Please note: this optional excursion operates on Friday afternoons and Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday mornings only.
Day 4: Dubai
Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the day at your leisure, enjoying a shopping spree in Dubai's fabulous malls or relaxing at your leisure on the beach. We recommend an optional tour of the city's modern attractions.* Overnight stay in Dubai. * Optional Half-Day Modern Dubai Tour: Visit the most emblematic sights in the city including the Jumeirah Mosque and the Burj Al Arab, the world's most luxurious hotel. Travel to the man-made palm-shaped island of Palm Jumeirah to see the amazing Atlantis Hotel before heading back to the city on the monorail. Afterwards, explore glittering Dubai Marina, the Mall of Emirates, to see the impressive Ski Dubai, and the jaw-dropping Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Please note: this optional excursion operates on Mondays and Fridays only.
Day 5: Dubai - Delhi
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport to board a flight to Delhi. Arrive in India’s capital and transfer to hotel. Delhi is a city with a wonderful architectural legacy from its Islamic conquerors together with its spectacular historic city centre. The rest of the day free to start to get to know this fascinating city. Overnight stay in Delhi.
Day 6: Delhi - Mandawa
Breakfast at the hotel. Depart by road to Mandawa. En-route, pass through authentic villages and start to enter some of the most rural parts of India. On arrival in Mandawa, enjoy a walking tour through the streets of the city. See the amazing Havelis - mansions noted for their frescoes depicting images of British colonial rule. Overnight stay in Mandawa.
Day 7: Mandawa - Bikaner
Breakfast at the hotel. Depart by road through the arid lands leading to the Bikaner Desert Kingdom - a major centre of trade during the 16th century. In the afternoon visit the spectacular Junagarh Fort, with its impressively decorated interiors. End the day with a memorable Tuk-Tuk ride from the ancient city bazaar. Overnight stay in Bikaner.
Day 8: Bikaner - Jaisalmer
Breakfast at the hotel. Enter the Thar Desert by road on your way to the city of Jaisalmer. This was an important trading centre for many centuries and presently one of the few forts that are still inhabited. Transfer to the hotel and the rest of the afternoon is free for more discovery of this city. We recommend to visit the Thar Heritage Museum or the Maharaja's Palace for a taste of kingly splendour. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.
Day 9: Jaisalmer
Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a tour of the golden city of Jaisalmer. Discover the magical Gadisar Lake and the magnificent Golden Fort. Walk through the narrow streets of the city, to visit the famous palatial houses characteristic of the city such as Nathmal and Patwon. In the afternoon, take an excursion to Sam to see the dunes in the beautiful sunset light. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.
Day 10: Jaisalmer - Jodhpur
Breakfast at the hotel. Continue the trip towards Jodhpur, known as The Blue City and enjoy a visit to the impressive Mehrangarh Fort with its bird’s eye view of the old city. Later continue to Jaswant Thada, an imposing marble cenotaph. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.
Day 11: Jodhpur - Jaipur
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer by road to Jaipur. Arrive at your hotel and the rest of the day is free to start to get to know the Rose-Pink City of India. We recommend a wander through some of the markets in the area to see the unique handicrafts and jewellery on offer. Overnight stay in Jaipur.
Day 12: Jaipur
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Amber Fort - The Old Capital of Thunder. En-route, take a brief photo stop at Hawa Mahal, The Palace of Winds. Arrive at Amber Fort by Jeep. Once inside, visit the Jag Mandir or the Hall of Victory. In the afternoon, take a city tour, beginning with a visit to the Maharaja’s City Palace. Later, visit The Jantar Mantar, the largest stone and marble crafted observatory in the world. Overnight stay in Jaipur.
Day 13: Jaipur - Fathepur Sikri - Agra
Breakfast at the hotel. Set off towards Agra, and on the way, visit Fatehpur Sikri, an impressive ghost town, where the tomb of Salim Chisti, the Panch Mahal, is located. Arrive in Agra, capital of sultans and great Mughal emperors. Enjoy an unforgettable tour of the famous and spectacular Taj Mahal - one of The Seven Modern Wonders of the World. Overnight stay in Agra.
Day 14: Agra - Delhi
Breakfast at the hotel. This morning, return by road to Delhi and once you have arrived, visit the Raj Ghat, where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. Afterwards, transfer to the Gateway of India, the residence of the country's president, and visit the impressive Humayun's Tomb, declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 1993. Overnight stay in Delhi.
Day 15: Delhi
Breakfast at the hotel. The rest of the day free to visit this fascinating city. We recommend an optional excursion to discover Delhi's most iconic temples.* Overnight stay in Delhi. * Optional Full-Day Delhi Temples Tour: Explore Delhi's most iconic temples. Experience the peace and tranquillity of the Lotus Temple, dedicated to the Baha'i faith and discover the extraordinary architecture of Akshardham Temple, dedicated to 10,000 years of Hindu culture. See the huge Jama Mosque and the downtown Sikh Temple with its golden dome before ending the tour at Lakshmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god, Vishnu.
Day 16: Delhi - US
Breakfast * at the hotel. Transfer to the airport ready to check-in for return flight back to the US. Arrive back in the US and end your trip. * Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.
