University of Denver -
COLORS OF INDIA

[B- Breakfast L- Lunch D- Dinner]

January 8 & 9, 2026:  Travel to New Delhi

January 8, 2026 is the suggested departure date due to length of flight and time zones.

January 10: Arrive Delhi

Upon arrival in New Delhi, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. 
Delhi, one of India’s most vibrant cities, has served as the capital for various dynasties overthe centuries. Today it stands at the leading center for politics, art, culture, cuisine, shopping, entertainment and overall quality of life.

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner.

 Please Note that official hotel check-in is at 2:00pm. If you require a guaranteed early check-in we recommend booking your room from the night before. Guests are also encouraged to arrive a day or two earlier to rest after a long flight. Please contact Immersion Journeys to book your hotel (Double: $335 per night, Single: $305 per night. Rates include a daily breakfast and all taxes). 

Accommodation: Taj Palace Hotel (Welcome Dinner)

January 11: Tour of Delhi

Your day begins with a visit to Jama Masjid, India’s largest and most spectacular mosque. Next,drive past the magnificent Red Fort– a stunning red sandstone marvel built along  the banks of  Yamuna River by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. This fort mirrors the architectural brilliance of the Agra Fort which you will see later in the trip.

You’ll then board pedicabs to navigate the bustling  streets of ‘Chandini Chowk,’an iconic market where the vibrant atmosphere engulfs you as you observe the busy bazaar.     

Continue with a visit to Rajhat, the serene memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, set within an open park this monument is as peaceful and tranquil as the man himself. 

Your drive through New Delhi includes a tour of India Gate  a memorial to the Unknown Soldier, Rashtrapati Bhawan – the Presidential Palace, the Parliament House and other beautiful buildings designed by the renowned British architect Edwin Lutyens. This area of Delhi is lush, with parks, wide roads and elegant houses. 

Finally,  visit the Qutub Minar,India’s  tallest minaret. Built in the 12th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a remarkable example of traditional red sandstone and marble architecture characteristic of the  Mughal era. 

Accommodation: Taj Palace Hotel (B,L)

January 12: Delhi | Agra 

Depart for Agra by road. Once the capital of the mighty Mughal Empire, Agra is now known worldwide as the home of the Taj Mahal – one of the most iconic monuments. Built by Emperor Shah Jehan, in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal stands as a testament to eternal love. In Agra you’ll also visit the Agra Fort constructed by Emperor Akbar in 1565. This impressive fort is renowned for its blend of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles.

Accommodation: ITC Mughal Hotel  (B,L,D)

January 13: Agra | Jaipur 

Depart for  Abhaneri to visit a traditional step well. Step wells were criticall vital sources of water for travelers, armies and their animals. The intricate architecture of the Chand Baori step well one of India's largest and deepest, is a highlight of this visit. 

Continue your journey to Jaipur. Known as the “Pink City,” Jaipur is India’s first planned city, where there is a clear distinction between residential and commercial areas. If time permits,  your guide will take you on a walking tour through the historic markets and alleys, offering a glimpse into the city’s unique urban design.

Accommodation: ITC Rajputana Hotel (B,L,D)

January 14: Historic Tour of Jaipur

In Jaipur 

Embark  on a tour of Jaipur, beginning with the Hawa Mahal or “Palace of Winds,” – a stunning façade built for the ladies of the royal family. Proceed to Amber Fort, a classic example of Hindu and Rajput architecture. This expansive fort, perched on a high hill, features multiple palaces, including the summer, winter and monsoon palaces offering miles of panoramic views.

Please note that due to animal cruelty concerns, we do not offer elephant rides at Amber Fort.

Continue to the City Palace,  the current residence of  Jaipur’s royal family. While some parts of the palace are still private, visitors can explore the museums, which house collections of armory, art, and everyday objects from royal life. The palace’s ornate doors, the enormous silver urns, the beautiful frescos, and elegant architecture make it a must-see. 

Finally, visit the Jantar Mantar, an observatory built by the astronomer king Jai Singh II. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features fourteen large instruments, still in working condition used to measure time, predict eclipses, track stars, and perform astrological calculations.      

Accommodation: ITC Rajputana Hotel (B,L,D)

January 15: Jaipur | Varanasi  (by plane)

Flight to Varanasi with a transit stop in Delhi. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.

Varanasi also known as Kashi is one of the oldest living cities in the world with a history dating back 3,500 years. Situated on the northern banks of the Ganges in Uttar Pradesh it is considered among the holiest of cities in Hinduism and a top pilgrimage destination.

Accommodation: Taj Ganges Hotel (B,L,D)

January 16: Historic Tour of Varanasi

Begin your day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges where you’ll witness the city awakening in the early morning light. Later, visit the shore temples including the famous Kashi Vishvanath temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

In the evening, attend  the aarti (prayer) ceremony on the banks of the Ganges. This ritual involves offering prayers and floating tiny oil lamps on the river. The atmosphere transforms from the quiet serenity of morning to a vibrant celebration of color, light and chants as the Gods are put to bed.

Accommodation: Taj Ganges Hotel (B,L,D)

January 17: Varanasi | Lucknow (by train)  

Take a train to Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh located between Agra and Varanasi. The city has an amazing sense of style, an elegance and is known for its refined culture, art, literature, music, and cuisine.With influences from the Persians, the British, and of course local kingdoms.  

Upon arrival, Visit to British Residency,a historical site from the 19th century. This complex, once the residence for the British Resident General, played a significant role during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The blend of European and Indian architecture, surrounded by imposing walls, offers visitors a glimpse into a crucial chapter in India's fight for independence. The well-preserved ruins, gardens, and museum make this a compelling destination for history and architecture enthusiasts. 

Accommodation: Taj Mahal Lucknow Hotel  (B,L,D)

January 18 (Sunday) 
In Lucknow

Explore the rich history and architecture of Lucknow, a city that has been home to both British rulers and local Nawabs. Begin your tour at La Martiniere School, an architectural marvel founded by a wealthy eighteenth-century Frenchman.

Drive past the tomb of Sadat Ali Khan, the best known Nawab of Lucknow, at Qaisarbagh; visit the Asifi Immambara – a large hall built during a famine to provide work and financial relief to the population. Also see the Rumi Darwaza a gate inspired by Turkish architecture.

At the Husainbad Immambara and the Lucknow Residency learn about the revolt of 1857 a fierce battle between Indians and the British that marked the beginning of India’s struggle for independence.

Accommodation: Taj Mahal Lucknow Hotel  (B,L, Farewell Dinner)

January 19: Lucknow | Delhi (by plane)

 Fly to Delhi where a hotel room has been  reserved for you until your departure.     . 

Accommodation: Andaz Aerocity  (B,L)

Optional trip Extensions (cost based on minimum 2 guests)
*The below extensions can also be arranged before the main trip. Extensions can be combined. We can also customize additional pre/post experiences.

Mumbai, Ajanta & Ellora Caves

$2,599 per person (double occupancy) | $999 single room supplement.

Visit the vibrant city of Mumbai and the world’s largest rock-cut monastery-temple cave complexes in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site: the Ajanta and Ellora consists of ancient Buddhist, Jain and Hindu temples and rock carvings which will leave you in awe. 

• Jan 19 - Arrive Mumbai. Trident Nariman Point (B)
• Jan 20 - Tour of Mumbai. Trident Nariman Point (B)
• Jan 21 - Fly to Aurangabad and guided tour of Ajanta Caves. Vivanta by Taj (B)
• Jan 22 - Guided tour of Ellora Caves. Vivanta by Taj (B)
• Jan 23 – Depart.

Includes: Accommodations as indicated with daily breakfast, tour of Mumbai, tour of Ajanta and Ellora caves, all local flights (economy class), professional guides, airport transfers and all transport during tours.

Excludes: Gratuities to guides, drivers, hotel staff, lunches and dinners, beverages.

Nepal Adventure

$4,799 per person (double occupancy) | $999 single room supplement.

Nepal boasts eight of the world's tallest mountains* and the world's oldest Hindu and Buddhist sites. Visit ancient cities filled with enchanting medieval palaces, pagodas, temples, statues and stupas; soak in the enchanting views of the Himalayan mountain range on a guided hike.

• Jan 19- Overnight in Delhi. Ândaz Aerocity (B)
• Jan 20 - Arrive Kathmandu, Nepal. Dwarika’s Hotel (B,L,D)
• Jan 21  – Historic tour of Kathmandu. Dwarika’s Hotel (B,L,D)
• Jan 22 - Fly to Pokhara and guided tour. Dorje’s Resort (B,L,D)
• Jan 23 – Guided hike and boating in Phewa Taal. Dorje’s Resort (B,L,D)
• Jan 24 – Return to Kathmandu. Dwarika’s Hotel (B,L,D)
• Jan 25 - Depart.

Includes: Accommodations and meals as indicated, tour of Kathmandu and Pokhara, hiking in Pokhara, Delhi-Kathmandu-Delhi flights (economy class), domestic flights (economy class), professional guides, airport transfers and all transport during tours.

Excludes: Gratuities to guides, drivers, hotel staff, lunch any additional meals not indicated, drinks.