BESPOKE LUXURY JOURNEY

India: Imperial Grandeur

Where ancient splendour meets contemporary grace

Picture a land where centuries-old traditions shimmer alongside contemporary aspirations, where dawn mists part to reveal magnificent marble domes, and where spice-laden breezes carry whispers of ancient legends through labyrinthine bazaars. India captivates with its kaleidoscopic blend of experiences—from Mumbai’s art deco boulevards to Delhi’s colonial grandeur, from Rajasthan’s rose-hued palaces to Agra’s immortal monument to love. This is a nation where every moment holds the potential for transformation, where luxury finds expression in restored maharajas’ palaces, and where acceptance of diversity has roots stretching back through millennia of spiritual traditions.

India at a Glance

Step into a realm where tradition and progress dance in an eternal embrace. Here, in a nation that once celebrated gender fluidity through ancient Hindu texts and temple carvings, a renaissance of acceptance is blossoming anew. Mumbai’s contemporary art scene pulses with fresh energy, as galleries in Colaba and Bandra showcase works challenging traditional narratives, while Delhi’s sophisticated neighbourhoods like Hauz Khas Village blend historical charm with progressive values.

The rhythm of Indian life flows through dramatic seasonal shifts, from the golden warmth of winter to the rejuvenating monsoon rains. Winter months bring perfect weather for exploring Mumbai’s art deco architecture and colonial-era promenades, while dawn casts the Taj Mahal in ethereal light. In sophisticated urban enclaves, design-forward hotels and innovative restaurants reimagine luxury through an Indian lens, while restored palaces offer glimpses into princely lifestyles with contemporary comfort. This is a journey through a land where every sunrise promises new discoveries, from rooftop yoga sessions overlooking ancient forts to intimate cooking classes revealing family recipes passed down through generations.

11-day Travel Itinerary

This meticulously crafted journey weaves through India's most compelling landscapes, from Mumbai's cosmopolitan energy to the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal. Begin in the creative heart of Mumbai, where art deco meets Victorian Gothic in perfect harmony, before soaring to Udaipur's lakeside splendour. Continue through the pink-hued majesty of Jaipur to the immortal beauty of Agra, before concluding in Delhi's dynamic blend of old and new. Each destination reveals another facet of India's magnificent heritage, reimagined through a contemporary lens of sophistication and style.

DAY 1

Mumbai | First Whispers of Coastal Elegance

Arrive in Mumbai, where colonial grandeur meets contemporary energy against the Arabian Sea's shimmer. After your private transfer to your hotel—perhaps the iconic Taj Mahal Palace, where sea-view suites blend heritage with modern luxury—unwind with a sunset champagne toast at the rooftop bar, watching ships glide across the harbour as the city's lights begin to twinkle.

DAY 2

Mumbai | Where Heritage Meets Innovation

Begin your day with a privately guided exploration of Mumbai's architectural treasures, from the Gothic spires of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus to the elegant curves of Marine Drive's art deco buildings. Delve into Gandhi's legacy at the thoughtfully curated Mani Bhawan Museum before discovering contemporary Indian art at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum. As evening approaches, experience the city's sophisticated culinary scene with a private chef's table dinner showcasing modern interpretations of regional classics.

DAY 3

Elephanta Island | Sacred Mysteries

Journey across sun-dappled waters to the UNESCO-listed Elephanta Island, where ancient cave temples hold centuries of sacred stories. Your expert guide illuminates the profound symbolism of the magnificent Shiva sculptures, where divine masculine and feminine energies merge in eternal dance. Return to Mumbai for your flight to Udaipur, where the magnificent Taj Lake Palace—a marble vision floating on Lake Pichola—awaits with its legendary hospitality.

DAY 4

Udaipur | Lakeside Legends

Awaken to the gentle lapping of Lake Pichola's waters against marble walls. Today unfolds through Udaipur's romantic heart, from the massive City Palace complex to the serene Gardens of the Maids of Honor. In the Crystal Gallery, marvel at Europe's finest craftwork reimagined through Indian opulence. As twilight approaches, a private boat glides you across the lake, champagne in hand, while the setting sun gilds the city's domes and spires in ethereal light.

DAY 5

Jaipur | Rose-Tinted Dreams

Wing your way to Jaipur, where every sunset bathes the Pink City in a warm coral glow. Settle into the sophisticated embrace of perhaps the Rambagh Palace, where peacocks strut through manicured gardens. Your afternoon unfolds through the City Palace complex, where the progressive Maharajas once held court, to the fascinating Jantar Mantar observatory. End your day with sunset drinks at Bar Palladio, where Rajasthani splendour meets Italian design in a celebration of cross-cultural beauty.

DAY 6

Jaipur | Royal Rhythms

Rise early for a privately guided exploration of the magnificent Amber Fort, where mirrored halls and delicate latticed windows tell tales of royal romance. Later, discover the city's artistic soul through its museums and markets, where ancient crafts find contemporary expression. Your expert guide can introduce you to local designers reimagining traditional techniques for modern aesthetics. As evening falls, enjoy a private cooking demonstration in a heritage haveli, where family recipes reveal the sophisticated spice combinations of Rajasthani cuisine.

DAY 7

Agra | Eternal Love

Journey to Agra, stopping to explore the hauntingly beautiful Fatehpur Sikri, where a mighty emperor built a city as an act of gratitude. Arrive in Agra in time for your first glimpse of the Taj Mahal at sunset—perhaps from the sophisticated comfort of The Oberoi Amarvilas, where every room offers views of this eternal monument to love. As twilight deepens, toast to tomorrow's dawn encounter with India's most magnificent tribute to devotion

DAY 8

Agra | Marble Masterpiece

Experience the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when first light transforms marble into rose gold. Your expert guide shares stories of the craftsmen who spent decades creating this testament to eternal love. Later, explore Agra Fort's romantic courtyards and the exquisite Itmad-Ud-Daulah tomb, often called the 'Baby Taj.' Return to your hotel for a spa treatment incorporating ancient Mughal beauty rituals, followed by a private dinner overlooking the illuminated Taj Mahal.

DAY 9

Delhi | Capital Sophistication

Travel to Delhi, where layers of history create a fascinating tapestry of experiences. Perhaps check into The Imperial, where art deco elegance meets colonial grandeur. Spend your afternoon exploring the boutiques and galleries of Mehrauli, where traditional craftwork finds contemporary expression, or delve into the progressive art scene at galleries showcasing emerging Indian talents.

DAY 10

Delhi | Ancient Meets Avant-Garde

Your morning begins in Old Delhi, where a cycle rickshaw carries you through Chandni Chowk's aromatic spice markets to the magnificent Red Fort. After lunch at a contemporary Indian restaurant celebrating regional cuisines, discover New Delhi's broad boulevards and hidden gardens. Visit Humayun's Tomb, whose perfect proportions inspired the Taj Mahal, before ending your day with sundowners at a rooftop lounge overlooking the city's green expanse.

DAY 11

Delhi | Fond Farewells

Savour a final morning at leisure—perhaps with a private yoga session in Lodi Gardens—before your departure, carrying with you memories of an India both timeless and contemporary, where ancient wisdom meets modern sophistication.

Additional Recommended Experiences

Enhance your Indian sojourn with carefully curated extensions that reveal the country's diverse character. Consider a spiritual retreat in Rishikesh, where luxury ashrams offer meditation and yoga alongside Ganges views. Venture south to Kerala's backwaters, where converted rice barges provide floating boutique accommodations perfect for exploring this unique ecosystem. For those seeking deeper cultural immersion, arrange private meetings with contemporary artists in their Mumbai studios, or join exclusive cooking workshops featuring traditional vegetarian cuisines. Adventure seekers might choose to explore Ranthambore National Park from the sophisticated comfort of SUJÁN's luxury tented camp, where tiger tracking combines with gourmet dining under the stars. Throughout the year, India offers exclusive experiences that match its cultural richness with sophisticated service, ensuring your journey creates memories as vibrant as the land itself. For those interested in India's emerging queer culture, time your visit to coincide with Mumbai Pride in January or Delhi's Pride month celebrations in November, when the cities burst with colour and energy. Consider adding specialist-guided tours of Mumbai's contemporary art scene, where many galleries actively support LGBTQ+ artists, or arrange private meetings with local activists and artists who are helping shape India's more inclusive future.

Transform Your India Dreams into Reality

Allow us to craft your bespoke India journey. Whether inspired by our curated itinerary or envisioning something entirely your own, we'll shape every moment to reflect your distinctive style and preferences.