India Highlights and Food Experiences Combination
Spend 9 days discovering the sights, sounds, and flavors of India. In addition to covering remarkable heritage sites, this food tour offers a culinary experience of incredible India. You will have a home-cooked meal with a local family, enjoy a fancy dinner inside the Amber Fort, and discover the vibrant street food in Varanasi.
Days
9
Price
from US$1,939 p/p
Best For
First-timers
Best Time
Oct. to Mar.
Tour Highlights





China Highlights, Asia Highlights, and Global Highlights collaborate to provide families and couples with personalized and stress-free experiences in diverse destinations.


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Albee was great in booking our tour to
Albee was great in booking our tour to Indonesia Malaysia and Singapore.She was very friendly and responded to my request to change itinerary few times to fit our needs. More
,
Dec 2023
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China is Amazing Wonders that do not stop coming at you.Great country
Great job,Loved every minute of it,Ethan did an amazing job,True Ambassador of China,Just like the Chinese people,Friendly, dignified and hardworking,Very happy.China Highlights exceeded expectations and then some,I will never even think of travelling with another company. More
Philip Sardar /Maps10321171537,
Dec 2023
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Wonderful times with the pandas
The tour was amazing and we loved the pandas we got so many wonderful pictures and our guide Helen was great. She is super knowledgeable and always ready to help More
Kavita,
Dec 2023
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Xi’an
During our trip around China, we spent three days in Xi'an. Thanks to our wonderful guide, Susan, who took us to visit the most beautiful places, explaining additional details about the dynasties. We especially enjoyed the Terracotta Warriors, where we had the chance to create one at a local workshop. Susan was very attentive; she tried to find a restaurant where everyone was happy with the food and found a pizza for our little son. She even made a gift for our daughter—a beautiful hairpin. Very positive experience! More
Kamilya1818,
Dec 2023
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Wonderful trip to Beijing and Xian
Had a great trip to bejing n xian. Our guide lily liu is so well versed in english and we have no worry here at all. We managed to dine in great halal restaurants though out our trip. Highly reccomended to all muslims travellers. More
Efen Reyes,
Dec 2023
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Great experience, highly recommended!
Additionally, she helped me with all my personal needs like getting a SIM card, finding an ATM, shopping, dining, checking in at the train station, hotel, suggested a couple additional very entertaining art events. Was also punctual and spoke good English. More
Wayne S.,
Nov 2023
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Chengdu and surrounding area tours
Our guide Helen was the complete package. She guided us every step with deep knowledge and energy. But, that's not all. She bought us snacks for the optional kungfu show. She helped us check into every hotel and inspected our room to ensure it was perfect. She translated at every need. She even bought a bamboo stick to help us ward off some aggressive monkeys. We had 4 lovely days with Helen and our excellent driver, Mr. Wu. Highly recommended! More
Chris,
Nov 2023
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Like a dream come true, but better
The experience itself was above and beyond what was described. The driver and vehicle was spotless and on time, the lantern festival and seats were like something from a wonderful dream. The lesson to make kratong and the dinner after were perfect. This whole experience has been a dream come true and I cannot recommend it enough. More
Diana B,
Nov 2023
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excellent communication
Bangkok guide Mr. Samart was great, and saw to all our needs. Mr. Chong in Chaing Mai was fun and very sweet. (5 Stars, Mr. Chong!) Finally, Nittaya is experienced, flexible to our needs, and took good care of us right to the flight out. More
Abigail Kamelhair,
Nov 2023
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We really enjoyed touring Chiang Mai
She met us at the airport and accompanied us on hiking tours, market visits, temple and pagoda tours, and our Thai cooking class, and then returned us safely to the airport where she helped us navigate the check-in process. More
Steve,
Nov 2023
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Excellent Siem Reap tour guide
He shared his vast knowledge about the Angkor temples, the Cambodian culture, the Khmer people, and the Khmer spirituality, in both historical and modern times. I appreciated how he connected Cambodia with other countries in Southeast Asia, as I had visited these countries prior to Sam's excellent tour. More
Baha,
Nov 2023
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Everything worked very well
Everything worked very well, for the second time I used Asia Highlights' service, and I'm already planning the third time, I have to praise the attention given by Sharon and Amir, who went beyond the professional service, during the trip, my wife Teresa had to carrying out a surgical procedure in India, and Sharon and Amir were tireless so that we could have peace of mind during that urgent moment. We would like to express our gratitude to these two professionals, and see you soon. More
William Roberto Guedes,
Nov 2023
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Accommodations by Asia highlights have
Accommodations by Asia highlights have been terrific so far. The Khmer Residence in Siem Reap as well as Eastin Grand hotel in Bangkok. Both had excellent pools and breakfasts.Tours in Siem Reap were particularly well given with an amazing mix of culture, history and humor throughout (Mr Poly). Tours in Bangkok by Mr Banks were informative and well organized with samples of Thai fruit and treats throughout. More
Chris Williams,
Nov 2023
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Our guide Chhong was amazing
Our guide Chhong was more than knowledgeable about the many temples of Siemens Reap, he was passionate about them. My wife and him talked on and on about the myths, stories and Gods that adored the many temples. He knew so much about Cambodian history that it a pleasure to have him accompany us. His driver Jack knew how to pick us up at secret locations to shorten the walking (it was still a lot these temples are huge). We had a marvelous time and I’m definitely going to return as there are still so many things for Chhong to show us. More
Brent Zadorozny,
Nov 2023
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Great experience from planning with Sharon
Great experience from planning with Sharon to all the guides, drivers, and adventurers we had in Thailand and Cambodia. More
Deborah Hinerfeld,
Nov 2023
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Family tour
Claire set up our whole trip in just a few days. She listened to all our needs, and made sure it all fit our budget. She was also there 24/7 to answer any questions we had. Her service made us feel really looked after. More
Kamila,
Nov 2023
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Vietnam November 2023
It was our second trip organised by Asia Highlights. After wonderful stay we had in South China in 2017 now we decided to go to Vietnam. Everything was perfectly organised and planned for our group by excellent advisor - Monica More
Aneta Ignatowicz,
Nov 2023
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Vietnam and Cambodia
The variety of experiences provided by Asia Highlights was great. In every city we had many different types of tours and really learned about the culture. More
Jodi Ralston,
Nov 2023
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Piseth was our guide and he was
Piseth was our guide and he was exceptional from beginning to end. So kind, courteous and very very knowledgeable. He made our stay in Cambodia a wonderful experience. His driver Bo was a great driver and courteous man. Would highly recommend Piseth for any traveller More
Peggy,
Nov 2023
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ASTONISHING SE Asia with Asia Highlights Tours
Every detail was taken care of from flights, airport greeting, transportation, meals, hotels and tours. They were available for any concerns we had throughout the trip which was very reassuring in countries where we did not speak the languages. More
Shelbee & Jerry,
Nov 2023
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Itinerary Details
The itinerary below is only a sample to inspire you. Let us know your preferences and your travel advisor will customize this trip to suit your interests and budget.
Upon arrival, your guide and driver will be waiting for you at the arrival hall with your name sign. They will be happy to assist with the hotel check-in. Have a good rest and adjust to the jet lag!
You will start your tour with the largest mosque in India, Jama Masjid, an Islamic monument. Then, a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk market will introduce you to the local lifestyle.
After lunch, admire the spectacular Qutub Minar, the highest brick minaret in the world. Afterward, step into the beautiful tomb of Humayun, which was the first garden tomb in India. It's said that the Taj Mahal was inspired by it. Follow your guide, explore the peaceful Mughal buildings, and enjoy the exquisite artifacts and vivid stories.
Then, knock on the door of a local family and enjoy an authentic home-cooked dinner with them. Chat with them, get to know their daily lives, and share your stories if you'd like.
After breakfast, you will leave for Agra by a private car, which will take about 4–5 hours.
Upon arrival, check in and freshen up at your hotel. You will explore Mehtab Bagh, the best place to view the Taj Mahal. Sitting across the river from the Taj, you can see the Taj Mahal changing colors during sunset.
Start your day early with the exquisite Taj Mahal. It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a symbol of his love for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Known as one of the world's greatest architectural masterpieces, the Taj Mahal reflects different colors of light at different times of the day. When you get close, your guide will show you more secrets of the iconic structure.
Then, move on to Itmad-ud-Daula's tomb. Also known as the "Baby Taj", it dazzles with marble lattice screens and fine carvings. It is an incredible structure that inspired many other marble buildings, like the Taj Mahal.
Finally, pay a visit to Agra Fort. The imposing red sandstone walls have guarded the royal palace for centuries. Walking through courtyard after courtyard, you will learn the story about the considerable changes in its appearance and enjoy lovely views of the Taj Mahal.
Departing from Agra, you will take a 5-hour car ride to Jaipur.
Your will stop at Chand Baori, a stepwell that is over 1,000 years old. This unique well in India is no longer in use, but its exquisite design cannot be missed.
After the hotel check-in, have dinner in Amber Fort. When all the lights turn on, you can see the fort from a different perspective. Sitting inside the fort, surrounded by its incredible ambience, you will get a glimpse of how royalty dined. Silver furniture, Belgian lamps, and live music — all these will make the dinner truly magical.
After breakfast, visit the stunning Amber Fort. The perfect reflection in Maota Lake creates a magical, mirage effect. Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors) is another spectacular building that you must not miss. The walls are decorated with tiny mirrors. The hall can dazzle you with the light of a single match.
Afterward, step into City Palace, where you can observe an amazing blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural brilliance. In the late afternoon, have a quick photo stop at the famous Hawa Mahal, which has a delicate façade of carved pink sandstone.
Then, take part in a cooking class at Ikaki Niwas. You will learn to recognize the ingredients and spices, learn some time-tested cooking techniques, and enjoy the food you cooked alongside engaging conversation with the local family.
In the morning, you will fly to Varanasi, the holiest city for Hindus. After freshening up, take a boat ride on the Ganges River. On the ghats and temples along the river, witness thousands of Hindu pilgrims dipping their bodies in the holy water, and observe the rituals of life and death taking place along the riverbank.
As dusk descends, experience the Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Aarti refers to a devotional ritual that uses fire and an offering. The pandits (Hindu priests) will light up lamps and circle around in a clockwise manner, accompanied by chanting or singing songs in praise of Mother Ganga.
Get an early start to catch the sunrise on the Ganges River by boat. As you glide across waters, you can see the entire river being engulfed in orange and red hues. You will witness the peaceful riverbank and see the life around slowly wake up.
Then, stroll through the street and hunt for local street food to get a real taste of Varanasi. Food is always the best way to know the local lifestyle.
Then, visit Sarnath, where the Buddha first taught after achieving enlightenment. One of Buddhism's four holiest sites, Sarnath draws pilgrims from all over the world. Grab a seat to meditate, listen to the monks chanting, or circumambulate around the large stupa.
After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel lobby and transfer you to the airport. You will fly back to Delhi and take your flight home.
Price Includes
Price from: $1,939 (Tour code: gh-ah-in-82)








Trip Notes
About the Meals and Food Experiences
The meals included in the itinerary, the cooking class menu, and the street food experience can be customized to be completely vegetarian. Please let your travel advisor know if you have any dietary requirements. He or she will arrange the meals accordingly.
About Extending Your Food Trip
Indian cuisine varies in different areas. This trip includes the highlights and the famous food in North India. If you would like to discover more of this country's delicacies, we suggest that you extend your trip to South India. There, for example, you can discover a lunch box delivery in Mumbai, try the famous Kerala fish in Cochin, visit a spice garden in Periyar, and enjoy a cooking demo on vegetarian sadya in Kumarakom.
About the Car Transfers Between Cities
We will arrange private car transfers from Delhi to Agra and from Agra to Jaipur. Your guide will not be with you during the transfers. You will have different guides in different cities. Your driver will be able to speak basic English so there will be no problems with basic conversation during the transfers.
Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.
Why Travel with Global Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)
- Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
- Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
- Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.
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