luxury-india-celebrations-and-palaces
Prices & availability last updated: 22 March 2026
Fast Facts
Expert says
Rohan Verma
Senior India Journey Specialist
16 years of expertise
Who is this trip for?
Crafted for discerning travellers who expect the finest properties and seamless service.
Route overview
Delhi - Arrival and Evening Welcome
Delhi - Mughal Monuments & Cultural Heritage
Delhi to Jaipur - Heritage Road Journey & Rambagh Palace Check-in
Jaipur - Amber Fort & City Splendor
Jaipur to Jodhpur - Royal Retreat at Umaid Bhawan Palace
Jodhpur - Mehrangarh Fort & Blue City Wonders
Jodhpur to Udaipur - Taj Lake Palace Arrival
Udaipur - City Palace & Romantic Splendor
Udaipur to Agra - Arrival at Oberoi Amarvilas
Agra - Taj Mahal Sunrise & Historical Gems
Agra to Delhi - Leisure & Culture
Departure - Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
Day-by-day itinerary
Your luxury Indian adventure begins as you arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). Upon landing, you will be warmly welcomed by your private chauffeur, who will ensure a seamless transfer to The Leela Palace Delhi. This iconic hotel is a masterpiece of refined elegance, blending traditional Indian artistry with contemporary sophistication. Your stay begins in an opulently appointed suite, where plush furnishings, intricate decor, and personalized amenities set the tone for an unforgettable journey. Take time to unwind, perhaps enjoying a soothing soak in your suite's marble-clad bathtub or sipping on a refreshing welcome drink as you admire the cityscape from your private balcony. As evening falls, prepare for a culinary adventure at Jamavar, The Leela Palace's award-winning Indian restaurant. Here, chefs craft a symphony of flavors using age-old recipes and premium, locally-sourced ingredients. Savor signature dishes such as the rich and aromatic Murgh Makhani or the delicate Lobster Neeruli, accompanied by expertly paired wines or handcrafted cocktails. The restaurant's elegant interiors, adorned with traditional Indian motifs, create a captivating setting for this indulgent dining experience. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the hotel's serene courtyards or relax in the grandeur of its lobby, ensuring your first night in India is both luxurious and tranquil.
Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast at The Qube, the signature all-day dining restaurant at The Leela Palace Delhi, where you can savor an array of international and Indian delicacies in an elegant setting. Your private chauffeur-driven luxury vehicle will then escort you to Humayun's Tomb, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and an enduring symbol of love and legacy. Stroll through its impeccably manicured gardens and learn about the Persian influences that shaped its design. Continue to the Red Fort, a sprawling red sandstone complex that once served as the main residence of Mughal emperors. As your expert guide shares fascinating stories of its historical significance, you'll feel transported to an era of opulence and conquest. For lunch, indulge in an unforgettable dining experience at Indian Accent, where Chef Manish Mehrotra's inventive dishes elevate traditional Indian flavors into a contemporary art form. Dishes like the blue cheese naan or the meetha achaar pork ribs are sure to delight your palate. In the afternoon, dive into the colorful chaos of Chandni Chowk, one of Delhi's oldest markets, where a rickshaw ride weaves you through narrow lanes brimming with jewelry, spices, and textiles. Return to The Leela Palace for an evening at leisure. Unwind with a signature treatment at the ESPA spa or enjoy the sunset from the rooftop pool, with its panoramic views of Delhi's skyline.
After an early breakfast at The Leela Palace, featuring a curated selection of Indian and international delicacies, embark on a private luxury road transfer to Jaipur in a premium vehicle designed for comfort and relaxation (approximately 5 hours). Witness the captivating landscapes of rural Rajasthan as you journey past vibrant villages, rugged terrain, and fields dotted with mustard crops-a glimpse into the region's rustic charm. Upon arriving in Jaipur, you'll be welcomed at the opulent Rambagh Palace, once home to the Maharaja of Jaipur and now a symbol of timeless heritage and grandeur. Check into your elegantly appointed suite, where traditional Rajput architecture meets modern luxury. After settling in, indulge in a gourmet lunch at Suvarna Mahal, the palace's fine-dining restaurant renowned for its intricate frescoes and delectable cuisine inspired by royal kitchens. In the afternoon, explore the palace's lush Mughal-style gardens, adorned with manicured lawns and fountains, or unwind with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapy at the Jiva Spa, an oasis of serenity within the palace grounds. As twilight descends, partake in an exquisite high tea served on the lawns, complete with delicate pastries, finger sandwiches, and refreshing teas, all surrounded by the enchanting ambiance of the palace's illuminated faade-a moment befitting royalty.
Begin your day with an indulgent breakfast at the opulent Rambagh Palace, a former royal residence that exudes timeless grandeur. Your private chauffeur will then take you to the magnificent Amber Fort, a stunning example of Rajput architecture rising majestically from the Aravalli Hills. Ascend to the fort in style by jeep or on foot, taking in the breathtaking views of Maota Lake below. Once inside, marvel at the intricate mirror work of the Sheesh Mahal, the sprawling courtyards, and the regal Diwan-i-Aam. For lunch, savor an authentic Rajasthani feast at Samode Haveli, a boutique heritage hotel nestled in a tranquil setting. Enjoy delicacies such as Laal Maas and Dal Baati Churma in a setting that blends old-world charm with contemporary luxury. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the regal ambiance of Jaipur's City Palace, an architectural marvel that offers a glimpse into royal life. Admire its intricate frescoes, ornate gates, and the fascinating museum collection. Next, visit the Jantar Mantar observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you'll witness the scientific brilliance of 18th-century India through its collection of astronomical instruments. As the day winds down, return to Rambagh Palace, where you can unwind with a bespoke cocktail or spa treatment, followed by a gourmet dinner under the stars.
Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at Rambagh Palace, indulging in dishes that blend traditional Rajasthani flavors with international cuisine, before departing Jaipur in style via a private flight to Jodhpur. Upon arrival, your luxury experience continues with a seamless transfer to Umaid Bhawan Palace, an architectural masterpiece and one of the world's largest private residences. Built between 1928 and 1943, this Art Deco marvel embodies regal grandeur and offers breathtaking views of Jodhpur's vibrant blue cityscape. Settle into your exquisite accommodations before enjoying lunch at Risala, the palace's signature restaurant. Savor a curated menu featuring dishes inspired by royal family recipes and regional specialties, all served in an elegant setting adorned with historical artwork. After lunch, spend the afternoon at leisure. Explore the palace's museum, which offers fascinating insights into Jodhpur's royal lineage, or unwind at the Jiva Spa, renowned for its holistic treatments rooted in ancient Indian wellness traditions. As the sun sets, prepare for a magical evening. You'll be escorted to a private rooftop dinner under a canopy of stars. Relish a gourmet meal paired with fine wines, accompanied by live traditional music, all while gazing at the illuminated Mehrangarh Fort, an enduring symbol of Rajasthan's opulent history.
Begin your day with a sumptuous royal breakfast at the opulent Umaid Bhawan Palace, an architectural marvel and one of the world's largest private residences. Afterward, embark on a short drive to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, a breathtaking hilltop fortress that narrates centuries of Jodhpur's regal history. With your expert guide, delve into its intricately adorned palaces, such as the Phool Mahal and Sheesh Mahal, and admire the priceless artifacts housed in its museum. From the fort's ramparts, soak in unparalleled panoramic views of Jodhpur's famed "Blue City," a sea of indigo-hued homes stretching to the horizon. For lunch, savor an exquisite meal at Hanwant Mahal, a heritage restaurant offering a blend of royal Rajasthani flavors and international cuisine, set within a charming historic building that overlooks the cityscape. Following lunch, enjoy a guided walk through Jodhpur's vibrant old city. Stroll the labyrinthine lanes adorned with blue-painted houses, discovering bustling bazaars filled with local artisans crafting everything from handwoven textiles to glittering silver jewelry. Engage with shopkeepers as you browse for unique souvenirs. As the day winds down, return to Umaid Bhawan Palace for a serene evening. Relax with a signature cocktail at the Trophy Bar or indulge in a spa treatment to rejuvenate before a gourmet dinner at Risala, the palace's fine dining restaurant.
After breakfast at your luxury hotel in Jodhpur, embark on a scenic private road transfer to Udaipur, often referred to as the "City of Lakes." The journey, approximately five hours, takes you through Rajasthan's picturesque landscapes, dotted with traditional villages and rolling desert terrain. Upon arrival, check into the iconic Taj Lake Palace, a masterpiece of white marble floating on the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola. Renowned for its regal ambiance and impeccable service, the palace offers an unparalleled stay in one of India's most romantic settings. Savor a refreshing lunch at Bhairo, the palace's rooftop restaurant, where contemporary European cuisine is complemented by panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Aravalli Hills. Spend your afternoon exploring Lake Pichola aboard a private boat, gliding past landmarks such as Jag Mandir, a 17th-century island palace, and the majestic City Palace, a sprawling complex that reflects Udaipur's rich history. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating tales of the Mewar dynasty, adding a cultural depth to your journey on the water. As evening falls, revel in the serenity of the Taj Lake Palace. Perhaps indulge in a signature cocktail on the terrace or enjoy a quiet dinner at Neel Kamal, the palace's acclaimed Indian restaurant where traditional flavors meet royal elegance. Relax and unwind, surrounded by timeless beauty.
Start your day in Udaipur with a serene breakfast at the iconic Taj Lake Palace, surrounded by the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola. Savor a selection of gourmet dishes as you soak in the tranquil morning views. Afterward, embark on an exclusive guided tour of the City Palace, a magnificent architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate mosaics, mirror work, and royal artifacts. Your expert guide will narrate captivating tales of the Mewar dynasty, bringing the palace's rich history to life. For lunch, indulge in a fine dining experience at the lakefront restaurant of Jagat Niwas Palace, where Rajasthani flavors meet breathtaking views. Relish a curated menu featuring delicacies like Laal Maas and Dal Baati Churma, paired with refreshing drinks. In the afternoon, stroll through the enchanting Saheliyon-ki-Bari gardens, a verdant retreat adorned with marble pavilions, lotus pools, and whimsical fountains once designed for royal maidens. Return to the Taj Lake Palace for a leisurely evening. As the sun sets over the lake, enjoy a sunset cocktail on the terrace before transitioning to a candlelit dinner in the palace's opulent courtyard. Delight in a multi-course meal crafted by master chefs, complemented by fine wines. A truly magical end to your day in Udaipur.
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at Udaipur's sumptuous Oberoi Udaivilas before transferring to the airport for your private flight to Agra. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by your personal chauffeur and escorted in a luxury vehicle to the Oberoi Amarvilas, an opulent retreat located just 600 meters from the iconic Taj Mahal. Renowned for its Mughal-inspired architecture and impeccable service, the hotel offers a regal welcome as you step into its palatial interiors. Relish an elegant lunch at Bellevue, the hotel's all-day dining restaurant, where chefs craft gourmet dishes blending Indian and international flavors. After lunch, take time to unwind in the serene surroundings of the property. Stroll through the manicured terraced gardens, inspired by Mughal design, or indulge in the temperature-controlled swimming pool shaded by lush greenery. For those seeking extra relaxation, a visit to the spa for a traditional Ayurvedic treatment is recommended. As evening falls, retreat to your lavish Premier Room or Suite, where a private balcony awaits with uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal. Witness the ethereal beauty of this masterpiece as the moonlight casts its silvery glow upon its marble surface-a mesmerizing sight that will remain etched in your memory. Highlights of your day include exclusive travel arrangements, luxurious accommodations, and unparalleled proximity to India's most iconic landmark.
Awaken before dawn for an unforgettable sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, bathed in the soft morning light that enhances its ethereal beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and a profound symbol of love. After this magical experience, return to the luxurious Oberoi Amarvilas, where you can enjoy a sumptuous breakfast with views of the Taj Mahal from the hotel's magnificent terrace. Next, embark on a guided tour of the imposing Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for generations. Marvel at the intricate detailing of the fort's palaces, mosques, and audience halls, which reveal the grandeur of the Mughal era. For lunch, savor the rich flavors of Mughlai cuisine at the highly acclaimed Pinch of Spice, known for its authentic dishes and elegant ambiance. In the afternoon, visit the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, often referred to as the "Baby Taj." This exquisite marble mausoleum, built by Empress Nur Jahan for her father, is a precursor to the Taj Mahal and showcases intricate inlay work and Persian-inspired design. Return to the Oberoi Amarvilas to unwind in unparalleled luxury. Enjoy a leisurely evening at the hotel, perhaps indulging in a bespoke spa treatment or a candlelit dinner at Esphahan, their fine-dining Indian restaurant, as you reflect on Agra's timeless beauty and rich heritage.
Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast at the exquisite Oberoi Amarvilas, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal one last time. Afterward, embark on a private road transfer to Delhi in a luxury vehicle, a journey that takes approximately four hours. Sit back and relax as you pass through the scenic countryside, with light refreshments provided to ensure your comfort. Upon arrival, check back into The Leela Palace Delhi, an opulent retreat blending timeless elegance with modern sophistication. Here, you'll be welcomed with impeccable service and a refreshing traditional drink to begin your final evening in India. In the afternoon, explore the artistic and cultural hub of Hauz Khas Village. This eclectic neighborhood combines history and modernity, offering a unique atmosphere. Stroll through the leafy ruins of a 13th-century fort complex and its adjoining lake before discovering boutique art galleries, curated designer stores, and quaint cafes. Enjoy a guided introduction to the area's highlights, including insights into its architectural heritage and contemporary cultural scene. As night falls, indulge in a memorable farewell dinner at Megu, The Leela's award-winning Pan-Asian restaurant. Relish expertly crafted dishes such as signature sushi, tender robata-grilled meats, and decadent desserts. Return to your plush accommodations for a restful night, cherishing the memories of your extraordinary journey.
On your final day in India, savor a leisurely breakfast at the renowned Qube restaurant within The Leela Palace Delhi, a luxurious hotel celebrated for its opulent interiors and impeccable service. Choose from a selection of gourmet dishes, blending international cuisine with Indian flavors, as you dine in an elegant glass conservatory overlooking the lush gardens. Take a moment to enjoy the serene ambiance and reflect on the myriad experiences that defined your journey through India's rich history, vibrant culture, and regal heritage. After breakfast, your private chauffeur will meet you in the hotel lobby to ensure a seamless transfer to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). The drive, approximately 45 minutes depending on traffic, offers one last glimpse of Delhi's dynamic cityscape, where ancient history and modernity coexist in striking harmony. As you relax in your luxury vehicle, you may reminisce about the grandeur of Rajasthan's palaces, the spiritual serenity of the Ganges, or the vibrant bazaars that captured your imagination. Upon arrival at the airport, your dedicated concierge will assist with your luggage and check-in process, ensuring a smooth departure. As your luxurious Indian adventure comes to a close, take with you the unforgettable memories of royal hospitality, cultural richness, and the timeless allure of India. Safe travels ahead!
Practical tips from your guide
- 💡India's luxury palace hotels (Taj Lake Palace, Umaid Bhawan, Rambagh Palace) frequently sell out 90–120 days ahead during wedding season (Oct–Feb) — book your travel dates as early as possible
- 💡The Rajasthan International Folk Festival (Jodhpur RIFF) falls in October and is worth timing your trip around — we can incorporate it
- 💡Varanasi's Ganga Aarti boat position — mid-river anchored — provides the best photography vantage; a standing ghat position is second choice
- 💡Private haveli dinners in Shekhawati require 48-hour advance notice and are arranged through the family caretaker — we handle this entirely
- 💡The best gift from Rajasthan is not jewellery but handmade block-print fabric from Bagru or Sanganer village cooperatives — ask your guide to take you
What's included
Included
- Accommodation in carefully selected hotels, on twin-sharing basis
- Daily breakfast at your hotel
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with experienced driver, as per itinerary
- All airport and hotel transfers
- English-speaking local guides for all sightseeing listed in the itinerary
- Sightseeing and site visits as per the day-by-day itinerary
- Driver allowance, tolls, parking and fuel throughout
- On-ground support from our India team during your journey
Not included
- International airfare (land-only package)
- India tourist visa fee
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Lunches and dinners, unless specifically stated in the itinerary
- Monument and heritage site entry fees, unless explicitly listed
- Camera, video and drone fees where applicable
- Tips, porterage, laundry, beverages and personal expenses
- Optional excursions and activities not listed in the itinerary
- Early check-in or late check-out, unless pre-arranged
Guest reviews
Showing 6 of 11 verified reviews
Lord & Lady Pemberton
GB
India's palace hotels are the finest in the world — Globalduniya chose them perfectly
We have stayed in luxury hotels on every continent. India's palace hotels — converted royal residences of Rajput and Mughal-era rulers — are in a category entirely their own. The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur (where the Maharaja still lives in one wing) and the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur (floating in the middle of Lake Pichola) are two of the world's great hotels by any measure. Globalduniya selected the exact right properties for each city. Our private guide Arun for the full twelve days was exceptional — clearly briefed on our interests, extremely knowledgeable about royal heritage and courtly traditions, and excellent company. The birthday dinner arranged on the Taj Lake Palace terrace was a complete surprise and beautifully done.
Response from Globalduniya · Rohan Verma · India Operations Director
Your experience at the Umaid Bhawan and the Taj Lake Palace is exactly what India's great palace hotels exist to deliver — a residual grandeur that no new construction can replicate. Arun has worked with our most discerning guests for eleven years. The birthday dinner on the lake terrace is a memory we are very glad we were able to create for you.
Priya & Anand Mehta
GB
Seeing India's royal heritage through a luxury lens — we saw our own country anew
As Indians living in London who have visited India regularly since childhood, we were curious whether a luxury palace itinerary with a specialist operator would show us anything new. Globalduniya showed us an India we had not seen. Access to a private polo match at Jodhpur's grounds, a curator's private tour of the Mehrangarh Fort's textile collection, and a royal family tea at Samode — none of these are experiences available independently. The palace hotels themselves were extraordinary even by our standards. A wonderful and genuinely revelatory India journey.
Response from Globalduniya · Rohan Verma · India Operations Director
Priya and Anand, guests who know India well are our most discerning audience and your response is the most rewarding we can receive. The polo access, the private textile collection tour and the Samode tea are connections we have built over years with each family and we are so glad they delivered something genuinely new for you.
Robert & Diana Foster
CA
Our 30th anniversary — India's palaces made it unforgettable
We asked Globalduniya to design a 30th anniversary trip that was genuinely special, not just luxurious. They delivered India's palace circuit — the Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, the Samode Palace north of Jaipur (a 475-year-old haveli), the Umaid Bhawan in Jodhpur, and the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur. Each was magnificent in its own right and together they formed a journey through India's royal heritage that matched every anniversary aspiration. The Samode Palace was the surprise — smaller than the others, but the most atmospheric and the most exquisitely restored. The fresco-covered dining room was extraordinary.
Response from Globalduniya · Rohan Verma · India Operations Director
Robert and Diana, congratulations on your 30th anniversary — and thank you for trusting us with it. The Samode Palace is a property we include for exactly the reason you identify: it is more intimate and perhaps more authentically atmospheric than the grander names. The frescoes in the dining room are a genuine Rajput masterpiece.
Alexander & Isabella Montague
AU
The Taj Lake Palace experience alone justifies the journey from Australia
We booked this trip specifically for the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur and the rest of the itinerary turned out to be equally remarkable. Arriving at the Lake Palace by boat across Lake Pichola as the sun descends behind the Aravalli Hills and the white marble of the palace glows in the golden light is one of travel's great theatrical arrivals. The hotel does not disappoint once you are inside. The private audience with the royal family's representative at Jodhpur's Mehrangarh Fort, arranged by Globalduniya, was an extraordinary addition — hearing the fort's history from someone whose family built it is incomparably better than a standard tour.
Response from Globalduniya · Rohan Verma · India Operations Director
Alexander and Isabella, the Lake Palace boat arrival at sunset is something our Udaipur team times very deliberately — 10 minutes of difference in departure changes the quality of light significantly. The private Mehrangarh audience is a connection we are proud to have maintained for our guests over many years. Thank you.
Charles & Penelope Hawkins
GB
Every detail attended to — the definition of a flawless luxury journey
We have taken luxury tours with various operators over thirty years. This India palace circuit with Globalduniya was, without question, the best organised and most consistently excellent we have experienced. Every hotel had been pre-briefed on our preferences. Every guide had been briefed on our itinerary and interests. Every dinner reservation was at the right table at the right time. The attention to detail extended to the private Jodhpur sunrise drive to the blue city viewpoint above the old town — the blue-painted houses extending to the base of Mehrangarh Fort in the early light is one of India's most beautiful urban views.
Response from Globalduniya · Rohan Verma · India Operations Director
Charles and Penelope, the standard we hold ourselves to across a luxury palace itinerary is precisely what you describe — every property pre-briefed, every guide contextualised, every reservation confirmed. The Jodhpur blue-city viewpoint at sunrise is something we include specifically for guests staying in the city overnight. Thank you.
Emily Wong
CA
The palaces lived up to their grand reputations!
Every stop in this circuit was remarkable! Jaipur's Rambagh Palace was like stepping into the pages of history, while Jodhpur’s Umaid Bhawan impressed with its Art Deco charm. Udaipur’s Taj Lake Palace was magical. The service at all locations, especially at Agra’s Oberoi Amarvilas, was exemplary. It was the perfect mix of luxury, culture, and history.
Response from Globalduniya · Rohan Verma · India Operations Director
We are so glad to hear you enjoyed the luxury and historical importance of each palace. It means a lot to us. Thanks for choosing Globalduniya!
About India
▾
Region: North India, India.
October to mid-February is the golden window for luxury India. The great palace hotels are at their finest in this period, festivals are active, and temperatures across Rajasthan are ideal.
Questions about this package
Luxury India Celebrations & Palaces includes: The Imperial or Taj Mahal Hotel (New Delhi), Oberoi Amarvilas (Agra — every room faces the Taj Mahal), Rambagh Palace or Taj Jai Mahal Palace (Jaipur), Taj Lake Palace or Taj Falaknuma Palace (Udaipur/Hyderabad depending on itinerary), and Taj Nadesar Palace (Varanasi). All are former royal properties or colonial-era landmarks.
Yes. We specialise in milestone celebrations. Private rooftop Taj Mahal sunset dinners, royal haveli banquets with live folk entertainment, and surprise rose-petal room décor are all arranged through our hospitality partners. These are confirmed before departure — we do not rely on on-the-ground improvisation for special occasions.
Yes — Luxury India Celebrations & Palaces is our signature honeymoon and milestone anniversary product. We have been designing luxury Indian honeymoon itineraries since 2007. The combination of Taj Mahal at sunrise (the world's greatest monument to love), Dal Lake houseboat, and palace hotel suites creates an experience that consistently receives our highest guest satisfaction scores.
Price on Request
We'll prepare a tailored quote within 24 hours.
Get a QuoteWhatsApp +91 89899 20981Usually within 24 hours · No obligation
Prices last updated: 22 March 2026
Gwalior (India HQ) office
Mon–Sat 9 am–7 pm IST
All contact options →Family-run since 2008
Personal relationships with hotels and guides — not a call centre.
IATA Accredited
Internationally recognised travel agency — your money is protected.
24/7 in-country support
Local teams in destination available around the clock during your trip.