Tales of India

Journey through India on an intimate exploration of its history, artistry, romance and women.

You will travel in the company of bestselling author Katie Hickman and award-winning national guide Abhishek Chordia, or Abi as he is fondly known. This marks their second collaboration after the highly successful A Cruise through History along the Hooghly: Travellers, Traders and Truth Seekers in India.

Begin in Hyderabad, stepping into the opulent world of the White Mughals before flying to historic Lucknow. Enjoy the erotic carvings of the Khajuraho temples and explore the surrounding wilderness on a jungle safari. Follow the path of rebellion along the River Betwa, spend two nights in Orchha and visit Gwalior Fortress, where the fearless 'warrior queen' Rani of Jhansi became a legend of the 1857 uprising. Conclude your journey in Agra, where the breathtaking Taj Mahal stands as the ultimate symbol of love.

Travel through spectacular landscapes and immerse yourself in India’s vibrant traditions. Enjoy afternoon tea in palaces, culinary walks, and watch artisans at work in marble, textile, and carving workshops.

Price (sharing a room)

per person

Price (room to yourself)

per person

Reference:

IND0126-3

At a glance

What you need to know

Type of tour

Cultural

Nights

Countries

Tour grade

Moderate

Remaining places

Dates and places

Itinerary at a glance

Hyderabad

Wednesday

January

Arrive in Hyderabad, historically a centre of trade for precious stones and known as the 'city of pearls' it was once India’s most affluent princely state.

Hyderabad

Thursday

January

Visit Chowmahalla Palace, explore the Charminar district and sample Irani chai and Osmania biscuits. Visit the former British Residency, an elegant Palladian villa that is now part of the Osmania University College for Women. Welcome dinner.

Hyderabad

Friday

January

Visit Golconda Fort, a mighty fortress famed for safeguarding treasures including the Kohinoor diamond. Afternoon tea at Falaknuma Palace.

Hyderabad / Lucknow

Saturday

January

Early departure for flight to Lucknow. Brunch upon arrival and witness Chikankar, a 400-year-old embroidery art. Check in to the Saraca Lucknow and at leisure.

Lucknow

Sunday

January

Visit the colossal Bara Imanbara and the Rumi Darwaza. Ride in tongas (horse drawn carriages) to the Hussainabad Complex. See the ancient metal engraving art of Naqqashi and take part in an Awadhi cuisine culinary tour of Lucknow.

Lucknow

Monday

January

Visit Dilkusha Palace stroll around its palm-fringed park and the La Martinière School. Visit Lucknow Residency, site of the Siege of Lucknow in 1857.

Lucknow / Khajuraho

Tuesday

January

Travel by train to Jhansi and drive to Khajuraho, a magnificent temple complex known for Nagara style and erotic sculptures. Arrive and check in to the hotel.

Khajuraho

Wednesday

January

Jungle safari at Panna National Park, home to a spectacular range of wildlife, wild cats, including tigers, along with deer and antelope. Explore the western group of monuments.

Khajuraho

Thursday

January

Continue your exploration of Panna National Park and witness the eastern group of monuments. Option to watch the sound and light show.

Khajuraho / Orchha

Friday

January

Drive to Orchha, a languid heritage town encircled by the Betwa river and lush forest.

Orchha

Saturday

January

Explore Orchha’s crumbling palaces, forts and beautiful trio of temples. At leisure.

Orchha/ Gwalior/ Agra

Sunday

January

Drive to Gwalior and explore the sun temple and Gwalior fort, this finely decorated fort looms large over the surroundings from its rocky outcrop. Arrive in Agra.

Agra/ Delhi

Monday

January

Rise early to watch the sunrise colour the perfectly symmetrical white marble of the Taj Mahal. Check out and watch a demonstration of marble inlay. Drive to Fatehpur Sikri, the ancient, abandoned red sandstone Mughal capital, continue from here to Delhi.

Delhi

Tuesday

January

Transfer to Delhi airport.