Icons of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai & Varanasi

Small groups lead to big experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour, beginning in vibrant Mumbai, where you’ll experience the city’s tiffin lunchbox delivery system and visit the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. Continue to Varanasi, one of Hinduism’s holiest pilgrimage sites, to observe the striking Ganga Aarti on the ghats lining the sacred Ganges River, then witness the symbol of eternal devotion with a sunrise visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal—one of the New7Wonders of the World. Here, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan enlisted the help of more than 20,000 workers and 1,000 elephants to erect a towering white-marble mausoleum dedicated to his wife. Beyond India’s most sparkling jewel lies a priceless mine of experiences. Hop in a rickshaw for a ride through Delhi’s centuries-old Chandni Chowk bazaar, sit down for traditional Indian cuisine in the home of a noble family in Jaipur, and embark on two thrilling open-air safari game drives through Ranthambore National Park in search of marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and the elusive Bengal tiger. A mosaic of memories awaits on this Small Group Discovery tour of India.