India's royal palaces & rural charms with The Leela hotels

Begin your journey with complimentary UK airport lounge access before your direct flight to India's capital. Upon arrival you'll be met and transferred to The Leela Palace, where your elegant room offers sweeping views across luxuriant gardens. Offering a serene oasis amidst the bustling city, the hotel's impressive façade pays homage to the Lutyens' Delhi architectural style, while the interiors showcase a blend of ancient Indraprastha and medieval Shahjahanabad influences. Guests can indulge in world-class amenities, including a rooftop infinity pool, a luxurious spa and multiple gourmet restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. The rest of your day is at your leisure to settle into your new surroundings.

Today, after a light breakfast at the hotel, you'll depart in anticipation of a culinary adventure. Teaming up with a renowned chef, you'll be led on an immersive food walk through the markets of Old Delhi, a unique chance to understand and savour some of the oldest street-food establishments in the city. Then, take a rickshaw ride to vibrant Chandni Chowk and Kinari Bazaar, where you'll find clothing, jewellery, spices, handicrafts and souvenirs.

This afternoon, embark on a sightseeing tour of New Delhi. Your drive takes you along the ceremonial avenue, Rajpath and past India Gate, a monument commemorating the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the First World War. You'll then pay a visit to the iconic Humayun’s Tomb. Built by emperor Humayun's wife, it's regarded as an example of early Mughal architecture and a prototype for the famed Taj Mahal.

Drive to Agra this morning and check into your hotel, inspired by the grandeur of the Mughal dynasty. Then, before head out to experience a heartwarming encounter with rescued sloth bears at Wildlife SOS's bear sanctuary, a safe haven for over 250 bears once subjected to the cruel practice of dancing bear performances. Your visit includes a guided tour and the chance to find out more about bear conservation in India. 

You'll then make your way to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Agra Fort. Explore the opulent chambers of this royal residence, where once emperors ruled, then venture through the city to immerse yourself in vibrant local life, bustling bazaars, and the rhythmic hum of everyday India. Then, for a unique perspective of the Taj Mahal, visit Mehtab Bagh. This moonlit garden, transformed by Emperor Shah Jahan, offers a serene vantage point where you can admire the monument's beauty.

An early start sees you return to the Taj Mahal and the chance to take in this magnificent monument in the early morning light. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as a testament to the enduring love of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Construction of this magnificent mausoleum began in 1631 and involved over 20,000 skilled craftsmen working tirelessly for an estimated 18 years to complete.

Then, on your journey to Jaipur, stop off at the historic city of Fatehpur Sikri, once a bustling metropolis and capital of the Mughal Empire. Continue to Jaipur – the "Pink City" – renowned for its vibrant colours, intricate architecture and rich history. Your hotel – The Leela Palace Jaipur – is adorned with white façades and shimmering silver domes. Check in to your villa complete with a private plunge pool and personalised butler service. For a truly authentic Indian experience this afternoon, consider an optional visit to a local family for a cooking demonstration and dinner, sampling the country's legendary hospitality.

After a sumptuous breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Amber Fort. This majestic Rajput-era fortress is an architectural masterpiece, its terraces and ramparts mirrored in the Maota Lake below. Then, after taking in Jaipur's only fully restored and functioning stepwell, Panna Meena Kund, you'll visit the City Palace Museum with its stunning blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal architecture and collection of royal artefacts. You'll also visit Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest astronomical observatories. Also included is a photo visit to Hawa Mahal, a five-story palace renowned for its intricate latticework and overhanging windows.

This evening there is the option to dine at the award-winning Mohan Mahal restaurant for a culinary journey through the region's rich heritage. The setting and ambiance is nothing short of breathtaking, with intricate tikri mirror work and warm candlelight preceding a menu of delightful traditional Rajasthani and Mughlai dishes.

Embrace Jaipur's vibrant local life as you witness the city awaken on a tour by dawn. Explore bustling markets, stroll through narrow alleys and participate in a spiritual moment at the Govind Dev Ji temple, joining hundreds of devotees in the morning prayer ceremony. Afterwards, visit local houses and immerse yourself in the artistic tradition of block printing, a centuries-old craft where intricate designs are transferred onto fabric using carved wooden blocks. 

This afternoon, explore the Jaigarh and Nahargarh Forts. Known as Victory Fort, Jaigarh is rugged and similar in structural design to the Amber Fort. Nahargarh Fort stands on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, and, along with Amber Fort and Jaigarh Fort, it once formed a strong defence ring for the city. You'll then visit an elephant sanctuary for an interactive program with these gentle giants. Knowledgeable caregivers will share fascinating facts about elephant biology, behaviour and their significance in Indian culture as you observe them in spacious habitats, prepare their food and even assist with their baths, weather permitting.

Today, take a long scenic drive to the quaint yet royal town of Deogarh, the heart of Rajasthan. Enjoy the countryside views along the way before checking into your comfortable accommodation in town. The picturesque surroundings of your stately hotel echo the rich history, as the towering Deogarh Fort stands guard. As you traverse the locales, every nook and cranny speaks of a time when royalty was a way of life. The calm lakes, verdant landscapes and ancient edifices add to the rustic charm. Later, drive out of the village into the rural countryside and end up at a lake to enjoy sundowners by sunset.

Stay: Dev Shree (Superior)

Transfer to Mihir Garh, a fairytale fortress rising fron the Thar desert. Now a luxury hotel, it's renowned for its intricate architecture, majestic towers and deep moat. Check in to your suite with a private courtyard and infinity plunge pool, coupled with views of the surrounding desert. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps unwinding with a spa treatment. Then, this evening, perhaps enjoy an optional Shikaar dinner experience as you join a beautifully adorned camel cart and journey through sandy tracks towards an exclusive camp, where fabulous food, traditional royal hospitality and a crackling campfire await.

The following day, a half-day excursion takes you to nearby Jodhpur. Founded in 1459, it is renowned as "The Blue City" and is dominated by one of India's mightiest fortresses. Mehrangarh Fort is a masterpiece of intricate red sandstone architecture, adorned with carved panels and latticed windows. Complement this with a visit to the Jaswant Thada cenotaphs. This mausoleum serves as the cremation ground for the royal family of Marwar.

Drive to Udaipur this morning, stopping en-route to visit Ranakpur – a Jain pilgrimage site known for its exquisite temples. The Chaumukha Temple, dedicated to Adinatha Rishabdeva, is the centrepiece. Built in 1439, it's a marvel of intricate carvings and towering pillars. After exploring Ranakpur, enjoy lunch at Mountbatten Lodge. Dine al fresco on local dishes under the shade of a 300-year-old banyan tree, or by candlelight in the tented dining room.

Continue to Udaipur, often called the "The City of Lakes" where you'll check in to your opulent palace hotel overlooking Lake Pichola. Consider upgrading your stay to one of the brand-new ultra-luxury villas at the Arq, along the beautiful shores of Lake Pichola. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Udaipur's enchanting beauty. This evening, perhaps treat yourself at Indian fine dining restaurant at Sheesh Mahal. From the aromatic biryanis and flavourful curries to the tender kebabs and succulent tandoori dishes, each dish here is a masterpiece of flavour and presentation.

Visit the City Palace complex, the private residence of the Maharana of Mewar, with its intricate architecture, peacock mosaics and rare miniature paintings. Afterwards, wander through the city's markets and bazaars before visiting Jagdish Temple, a beautiful Hindu shrine adorned with intricate carvings. If time permits, relax and rejuvenate with a wellness experience at the hotel's spa. With views of the picturesque Lake Pichola in the background, experience a range of therapies and practices designed to nourish body and soul.

Later, experience the rare art of Jal Sanjhi, traditional water painting performed annually, before enjoying a boat cruise on Lake Pichola, taking in the views of the City Palace and surrounding gardens. As the sun sets, encounter local artisans and learn about the city's rich history and traditions on a walking tour. Perhaps you'll conclude the day with an optional dinner at the Darikhana restaurant on Jagmandir Island, a historic 17th-century palace. Indulge in delicious cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the lake.

You'll begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Udaipur airport to catch your flight to Delhi. Once in Delhi, you'll be transferred to your hotel for the night. Consider extending your stay in India with a trip to Kerala for some beachside relaxation at the stunning The Leela Kovalam. Perched on a rocky clifftop overlooking the Arabian Sea, this 5-star luxury resort is the ideal way to conclude your stay in India. Combine lazy beach days with a strolls in the local markets, water sports like snorkelling and rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments at the luxury spa. Alternatively, add in a stop over in Mumbai for a few days of luxury pampering and fine dining at The Leela Mumbai before your flight back to the UK. Speak with our specialists for detailed options for extending your stay.

After your final breakfast at the hotel check out in time for your transfer to Delhi International Airport for your day flight back to the UK.