Mystical and spiritual, India is a land of rich contrasts. Explore its multifaceted culture as you travel through the classic Golden Triangle and east to Varanasi, stopping in Kalakho where local Meena tribespeople invite you into their homes.

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Starting at: $5,787 * Includes airfare, taxes & all fees Make a Reservation Ask Us A Question or Call 855-330-1542

Mystical India

The Golden Triangle and Varanasi With an Optional Extension to Nepal

17 days from $5,787 | includes airfare, taxes and all fees

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Tour Details

TOUR BROCHURE

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WHAT OUR TRAVELERS SAY

Of all the overseas trips we've taken, this trip ranks right at the top. Smithsonian did an outstanding job of balancing sites and activities with learning. We saw and did so much but we learned even more. We'll always remember India.

- Ron Z.

I have wanted to visit India all my life and, therefore, had very high expectations. This trip far exceeded all those expectations. It was everything I hoped for and more!

- Brenda S.

India is not only mystical, but it is memorable, and magic. An initial visit only whets one's desire to return to experience the unique physical and spiritual senses over and over again.

- Kenneth N.

I am so happy I saw India with the Smithsonian. It has such a rich and extraordinary history, and Smithsonian was the way to go!

- Previous Journeys Traveler

JOURNEYS DISPATCHES

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ACCOMMODATIONS
*Click on hotel name to visit hotel web-site.

Taj Diplomatic Enclave

Delhi, India

Surrounded by six acres of lush greenery in Delhi's Diplomatic Enclave, the Taj Palace Hotel features a contemporary décor accented by marble and brass. The 422-room hotel offers four restaurants, two bars, and a lounge; Fitness Center with Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, and spa treatments; outdoor pool; beauty salon; and laundry service. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, mini-bar, Internet access, TV, and phone.

Number of nights: 3

Jai Mahal Palace

Jaipur, India

A masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture, the Jai Mahal Palace is certified environmentally-friendly and the former home of maharajahs and three prime ministers of Jaipur. This 270-year-old hotel sits amidst 18 acres of beautifully landscaped Mughal gardens. Amenities include three restaurants, one bar, a bakery, and two lounges; a barber shop and beauty salon; an outdoor pool; fitness center; spa with massage treatments; billiards and game room; complimentary WiFi internet access; and laundry service. Decorated with period furniture and Rajasthani paintings, air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, tea- and coffee-making facilities, in-room safe, minibar, TV, and phone.

Number of nights: 3

Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge

Ranthambore, India

Built in the 1930s by Indian royalty, the Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge is located just a short distance from Ranthambore National Park. The rustic-style lodge offers a restaurant and bar, croquet, badminton, and outdoor pool. Each of the 30 air-conditioned guest rooms has private bath with hair dryer, mini-bar, in-room safe, Internet access, TV, and phone.

Number of nights: 2

Dera Village Retreat

Kalakho, India

Off the beaten track of rural Rajasthan sits Dera Lake Retreat, a rustic yet comfortable haven of guest cabins set amidst a series of traditional villages. Sitting on the banks of a monsoon lake, the camp offers a unique opportunity to witness how much of India lives, away from the cities. During our stay we visit a local school, take a camel safari, and meet local Meena tribespeople in their homes. Along with a restaurant, gardens and bonfires add to the retreat's ambience. Air-conditioned guest cabins have private bath with hot and cold running water. This remote location has no telephone service.

Number of nights: 1

Courtyard Marriott Agra

Agra, India

Located on famous Fatehabad Road, Courtyard Agra is a luxury haven near the most celebrated jewels of India. Immerse yourself in 5-star comfort within spacious hotel rooms and suites, featuring resort-style amenities, plush pillowtop bedding and high-speed Wi-Fi. Savor distinctive cuisine, creative cocktails and fine wines at our four unique restaurants. Explore some of the world's most legendary attractions, including the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Celebrate and succeed in 24,000 square feet of elegant outdoor and indoor event space.

Number of nights: 2

Taj Gateway Ganges

Varanasi, India

Set amidst 40 acres of landscaped lawns, Taj Gateway Hotel Ganges offers a host of amenities including a restaurant, coffee shop, and bar; laundry and dry cleaning services; astrologer; outdoor pool, croquet, badminton, and yoga; and spa services. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, coffee- and tea-making facilities, mini-bar, in-room safe, Internet access, TV, and phone.

Number of nights: 3

Crowne Plaza Gurgaon

Delhi, India

The 234-room Crowne Plaza Hotel Gurgaon is conveniently located near the airport and the local business district. Hotel amenities include two restaurants and a bar, Fitness Center with spa, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, mini-bar, Internet access, TV, and phone.

Number of nights: 1

Hotel Pullman New Delhi Aerocity

Delhi, India

The upscale hotel is located adjacent to both international & domestic airport terminals and is well connected through the Airport Express Line which is just 5 minutes away. The Pullman New Delhi Aerocity is near the business hubs of Gurgaon, New Delhi, and Cyber City. It is also located close to Delhi's shopping malls including DLF Promenade, Emporio and Worldmark. A big complex of 670 rooms, Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity is a preferred destination for both business & leisure travelers.

Number of nights: 1