Classical North India with Mumbai
Overview
Uncover the soul of India on a mesmerizing 13-day, 11-night adventure that brings together the country’s most iconic sights and hidden gems. From bustling metropolises brimming with vibrant markets and historic landmarks to serene temples and palaces that whisper stories of a regal past, this journey offers an immersive experience like no other.
This itinerary features More Moments activities included with your package.
Format
Locations
- Mumbai
- Jaipur
- Agra
- Khajuraho
- Varanasi
- Delhi, India
Inclusions
- Round-trip flight to India (if Flight & Hotel option is chosen)
- Mouli ritual welcome ceremony
- Private transfers to and from airports, for all excursions and sightseeing tours and for all inter-city travel as per the itinerary
- 11 nights of accommodation in selected category (2 nights in Mumbai, 2 nights in Jaipur, 2 nights in Agra, 1 night in Khajuraho, 2 nights in Varanasi, 2 nights in Delhi)
- Daily breakfast and dinner
- More Moments activities included:
- Half-day excursion to Elephanta Caves (round-trip ferry ride included)
- Half-day Mumbai city tour
- Evening praying ceremony at a Hindu temple
- Amber Fort visit, with a cultural walk through Amber Town
- E-rickshaw ride in Jaipur
- Jantar Mantar and City Palace Museum visits
- Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort and Taj Mahal visits
- Western Group of Temples visit
- Varanasi’s landmarks tour, Buddhism-Sarnath (Pilgrimage Center) visit, River Ganga boat ride
- Full-day city tour, including pedicab (cycle rickshaw) ride and a visit to the Humayun's Tomb
- Hotel taxes, fees and service charges
- Road taxes, parking fees, fuel charges and Interstate taxes
- Domestic flights as per itinerary (Mumbai to Jaipur, Khajuraho to Varanasi, and Varanasi to Delhi)
- Bottled water in the vehicle throughout the tour
- Service of an English-speaking local guide during visits only as per program (different guide in each city)
- Entrance fees to the monuments and landmarks as per itinerary
- One-way Economy Class train ticket from Agra to Khajuraho
- Earn 4,000 extra Aeroplan® points per member on this tour for travel completed by December 31, 2025
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Canada
Depart on your overnight flight to Mumbai’s International Airport.
Day 2
Welcome to Mumbai
Upon arrival to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, you will be required to clear customs and immigration. Once cleared, proceed to the exit where a dedicated local representative will greet you with an Air Canada Vacations board with your name on it. They will greet you with a traditional Mouli welcome ceremony* before escorting you to your private transfer to take you to your hotel to check in. The rest of the evening is at your leisure.
*The Mouli ritual is a traditional Hindu ceremony associated with the welcoming or honouring of guests. The term "Mouli" refers to a sacred thread or garland that is tied around the wrist or head during the ritual.
Day 3
Mumbai
After breakfast, your tour guide will take you to a half-day excursion to Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site accessible only by a ferry ride from the Gateway of India. After lunch ($), your next adventure will take you on an exciting half-day city tour.
Afterwards, your private transfer will take you back to your hotel. The rest of the evening at your leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Half-day Excursion to Elephanta Caves
Explore this collection of rock-cut caves located on Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 5th to 7th centuries and is renowned for its stunning rock-cut sculptures primarily dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.
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Half-day City Tour
During this fascinating tour you will visit iconic sites like the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Museum, Mani Bhavan Gandi Sangrahalaya Museum, Marine Drive and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus).
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 4
Mumbai - Jaipur
After breakfast and checking out, your private transfer will take you to Maharana Pratap Airport to catch your flight to Jaipur, known as the “Pink City” for the distinct hue of its buildings.
Upon arrival to Jaipur International Airport, collect your luggage and proceed to the exit where a local representative will greet you with an Air Canada Vacations board with your name on it. They will escort you to your private transfer that will take you to your hotel to check in. The rest of the afternoon at your leisure.
Later in the evening, your tour guide will take you to a *Hindu Temple to witness the evening prayer and take part in the blessing ceremony with locals.
*The Hindu Temple to visit is the Birla Temple; however, the temple may change depending on availability. The tour guide will reconfirm at the meeting point.
More Moments Activities Included
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Evening Prayer and Blessing Ceremony
Experience the enchantment of an evening prayer and blessing ceremony at a Hindu Temple, where spirituality and tradition converge in harmony.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 5
Jaipur - Amber Town - Jaipur
After breakfast, your tour guide will take you to the outskirts of the city to visit the magnificent Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the way back to Jaipur, you will explore Amber Town, the sleepy town that lies at the base of the fort and pre-dates it by many years.
Afterwards, you will be transferred back to the city to explore the secrets hidden in the walled city of Jaipur on board on an e-rickshaw (included), followed by a visit to the Jantar Mantar, an observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh ll in the 18th century.
Your last stop will be a visit to the 18th century City Palace, now a fascinating museum housing some of the treasures of Jaipur’s princely past.
More Moments Activities Included
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Amber Fort
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is surrounded by fortified battlements that overlook Maota Lake. Once you’ve reached the top, you may stroll through the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls.
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Cultural Walk Through Amber Town
This fascinating heritage walk winds through the surrounding Aravalli Range, where you can visit Meena tribal settlements and historic structures like forts and shrines. You may also visit the school situated in this village to interact with local kids. (Note: The school is closed on Government holidays and Sundays).
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E-rickshaw Ride
Experience modern convenience and excitement aboard an e-rickshaw while navigating Jaipur’s streets.
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Jantar Mantar Observatory
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a marvel to behold. 13 massive astronomical instruments were built from local stone and marble here and completed in 1724. Immerse yourself in the intriguing history and celestial significance of this landmark.
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City Palace
This fascinating museum houses some of the treasures of Jaipur’s princely past. The former royal family retains a part of the palace for their personal use. Dive into the legacy of Rajasthan's royal heritage as you wander through the ornate halls adorned with lavish artifacts, royal costumes, intricate artwork and precious treasures.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 6
Jaipur - Agra
After breakfast and checking out, your private transfer will take you on a 6-hour drive* towards your next stop, the magnificent city of Agra!
*Driving time is approximate and it may vary depending on road and traffic conditions.
On your way, you will take a detour to visit the historical city of Fatehpur Sikri. Afterwards, you will continue towards Agra to check in to your hotel and have the rest of the evening at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Fatehpur Sikri
Enjoy this architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—a deserted red sandstone city built by the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century and abandoned after 15 years due to scarcity of water. The site boasts stunning red sandstone structures, including palaces, mosques and courtyards, and showcases a blend of Mughal, Persian and Hindu architectural styles.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 7
Agra - Kachhpura Village - Agra
Start your day early to catch the first rays on the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). The length of the visit is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours long (you will be given a detailed explanation on the monument’s history and construction, followed by free time for picture taking). After the visit, you will be transferred back to the hotel to have breakfast and enjoy the morning at your leisure.
In the afternoon, the tour guide will take you for a visit to the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by an interesting cultural walk through the Kachhpura Village, which also offers stunning sunset views of the Taj from Mehtab Bagh across the river.
More Moments Activities Included
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Taj Mahal
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site—a masterpiece that now stands as a symbol of love to the world. This iconic mausoleum rises above a well-manicured garden and the monument’s interiors display an elaborate inlay work of precious and semi-precious stones.
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Agra Fort
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a red sandstone fort that was built on a bend of the Yamuna River that served as the main residence of the emperors until the capital was shifted from Agra to Delhi. The Emperor Shah Jahan was once imprisoned inside the Agra Fort, and the tower of his imprisonment offers spectacular views of the Taj Mahal in the distance.
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Kachhpura Village, Cultural Walk-through
This quaint village situated near the Taj Mahal offers a rural setting intertwined with the lives of the resident communities, along with a stunning view of the Taj from Mehtab Bagh.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 8
Agra - Khajuraho
After an early breakfast and checking out, your private transfer will drive you to the Agra’s train station to catch a train to Khajuraho, where you will be greeted by a local representative with an Air Canada Vacations sign with your name on it. They will escort you to your private transfer, who will take you to your hotel to check in. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 9
Khajuraho - Varanasi
After breakfast and checking out, the tour guide will take you on this morning’s exciting adventure, a visit to the Western Group of Temples.
Afterwards, your private transfer will take you to Khajuraho Airport to catch your flight to Varanasi.
Upon arrival to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, a local representative will greet you with an Air Canada Vacations’ sign with your name on it. They will escort you to your private transfer, who will take you to your hotel to check in. The rest of the evening is at leisure.
More Moments Activities Included
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Western Group of Temples
This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a magnificent testament to Khajuraho's architectural brilliance. Learn about their history, architecture, presiding deities and the magnificent carved embellishments that cover the walls and interiors of the temples.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 10
Varanasi
After breakfast, your tour guide will take you on a captivating Varanasi’s landmarks tour. Immerse yourself in the timeless magic of Varanasi on this excursion. Discover the sacred essence of the city through its historic sites. This journey promises an unforgettable encounter with the soul of Varanasi, offering a deep dive into its profound spiritual heritage and rich cultural tapestry.
Afterwards, your private transfer will drive a short distance to one of the four main pilgrimage centers of Buddhism, the *Sarnath.
*Closed on Mondays.
In the evening, you will witness the enthralling Aarti devotional ritual, offered to River Ganga to seek her blessings before cruising down the river on a boat.
More Moments Activities Included
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Varanasi’s Landmarks Tour
Visit some of the most iconic landmarks in the city like the Banaras Hindu University, the Bharat Kala Bhavan located within its premises, the New Vishwanath Temple, the Bharat Mata Temple and the much-revered Durga Temple.
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Sarnath
This is the sacred site where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon. Walk through the serene grounds and discover the ruins of ancient monasteries and the archaeological treasures housed in the Sarnath Museum, including exquisite sculptures and relics. Sarnath offers a tranquil glimpse into Buddhism’s rich heritage, providing a reflective counterpoint to the vibrant energy of Varanasi.
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Ganga River Boat Ride
Enjoy this captivating and spiritually enriching activity to witness the enthralling Aarti devotional ritual offered to River Ganga to seek her blessings. The boat will halt at the perfect point from where you can enjoy an unobstructed view of the ceremony that marks the final ritual of the day.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 11
Varanasi - Delhi
After breakfast, your private transfer will take you to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport to take your flight to Delhi.
Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, a local representative will greet you with an Air Canada Vacations’ sign with your name of it. They will escort you to your private transfer, who will take you to your hotel to check in. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 12
Delhi
After breakfast, your tour guide will take you on a full-day city tour. On your way to Old Delhi, you’ll *drive past the magnificent Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and then experience the thrill of a cycle rickshaw ride through its bustling, narrow lanes.
In the afternoon, your tour guide will take to visit the Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for an orientation with a conservationist from the Aga Khan Foundation involved in heritage conservation. On your way, your will drive by the magnificent India Gate and the Secretariat building*.
*A photo stop of these landmarks may be possible, depending on traffic and time constraints.
More Moments Activities Included
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Full-day City Tour
Explore ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods and iconic sights that showcase the essence of India’s capital. This tour promises a dynamic blend of tradition and contemporary flair, perfect for capturing the spirit of Delhi during a single, unforgettable day.
Meal(s): Breakfast and dinner
Day 13
Delhi - Canada
After breakfast, your private transfer will take you to Indira Gandhi International Airport to catch your flight back to Canada.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accomodations
Where you'll stay
Location
Hotel
Room details
Bed size(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 people (2 adults or 1 adult and 1 child)
Unless otherwise specified, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Room details
Bed size(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 people (2 adults or 1 adult and 1 child)
Unless otherwise specified, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Important Information
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Frequency: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday
- October 27, 2024 – March 28, 2025
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Not included:
- Gratuities
- Airport departure taxes (where applicable)
- Meals outside of the ones mentioned within the itinerary above
- Transfers for any optional activities, and any other transfer services required outside of the itinerary above
- Entrance to other landmarks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Additional activities and excursions
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The More Moments activities/excursions mentioned in the itinerary are all included in the package but may be rescheduled to take place on an earlier or later day, depending on availability and operational day, or cancelled due to weather related conditions.
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- Flight from Mumbai to Jaipur, from Khajuraho to Varanasi and from Varanasi to Delhi
- Private transfer service from/to airports
- Private transfer service for all inter-city travel
- Private transfers for all sightseeing per itinerary
- Train ride from Agra to Khajuraho
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The itinerary above is subject to change without prior notice. The order in which destinations are visited or day excursions occur may change due to operational restrictions, such as weather and accommodation availability.