Mumbai to Kolkata (A Tour from India,s West to East)
(26 Days / 25 Nights)
(Bombay - Nasik - Kopargaon - Aurangabad - Ellora - Ajanta - Mandu - Dhar - Omkareshwar - Maheshwar - Ujjain - Bhopal - Sanchi - Udaigiri - Bhimteka - Jhansi - Orchha - Khajuraho - Varanasi - Sarnnath - Calcutta - Bardhaman - Shantiniketan - Kolkata)
(to view the route of this tour on a Map please click here)

Day 01. Flight to India (Mumbai)
Around Midnight arrive in Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay). The cosmopolitan City and capital of Maharashtra is the main gateway for the travelers to India. Upon arrival, you will be met by an Indo Vacations representative and transferred to the hotel.

Day 02. Mumbai: Excursion
After having our breakfast we have sightseeing in Mumbai. Today in our sightseeing we visit the Gandhi Museum, Hanging Garden, City Museum, Marine Drive Flyover, St. Thomas Cathedral, Chhatrapati Shivaji terminus, Rajabai Tower, Kamala Nehru Park, Hanging Gardens, Mumbai University, High Court, Oval Maidan and Gateway of India. We have a walk through the harbor area and visit the Gateway of India built in 1927 to commemorate the visit of George 5th from England. We have a Boat Ride at Gateway of India. In the afternoon we visit the laundry people on the shore (Dhobi Ghat) and later we will also learn about the art of Dabbawalas. A dabbawala is a person who is part of a delivery system that collects hot food in lunch boxes from the residences of workers in the late morning, delivers the lunches to the workplace by various modes of transport, mostly bicycles and the railway trains, and returns the empty boxes back to the customer's residence that afternoon. They are also made use of by prominent meal suppliers in Mumbai where they ferry ready, cooked meals from central kitchens to the customers and back. Then we proceed to Mani Bhawan Museum.

Day 03. Mumbai/Bombay - Nasik (about 165 km / 3˝ hrs)
Today we drive from Mumbai to Nasik. The region surrounding Nasik is the center of wine production in India. But Nasik is also an emerging industrial city of many national and international companies which have branches in Nashik. Rest of the time free for leisure at the hotel.

Day 04. Nasik
Today we visit Pandu Lena, about 8 km south-west of Nasik, near the Bombay Road, there are 21 Buddhist Hinayana caves of Pandu Lena. They date from 1st century BC to the 2nd century AD. Then we visit Sundar Narayan Temple which is situated near Ramkund, it is visited for its heritage character and architectural style of temples. Then we proceed to visit Sita Gumpha Cave. Sita Gumpha is a place from where Sita was kidnapped by the demon king Ravana. After this we visit Trimbakeshwar temple which is about 25 kms from Nasik.

Day 05. Nasik - Kopargaon - Aurangabad (about 185 km / 4 hrs)
Today we drive to Aurangabad. Arrival in Aurangabad. We vist the famous water mill complex which dates back to 17th century. We also visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, a replica of the famous Taj Mahal. Bibi Ka Maqbara is located on the bank of the river. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 06. Aurangabad: Excursion Ellora
Today we have excursion Ellora. Ellora is famous for its caves and cave temples and monasteries. Ellora Caves dates back between 7th - 10th century A.D. The magnificent group of rock temples of Ellora is a part of world heritage monuments. Ellora group of temples represents the art and sculptures of Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism - three dominant religions of India. After sightseeing we drive back to Aurangabad

Day 07. Aurangabad Excursion Ajanta
After the breakfast we drive through the cotton-growing area to Ajanta caves (UNESCO Heritage Site). Of the thirty monuments at Ajanta, four caves No 9, 10, 26 and 29 are sanctuaries or Chaitya containing a Stupa at the centre of their apses. The rest are monastic residences or Viharas. An Indian poet Kalidasa describes these caves as the gem set of jewellery, rich furniture, imposing architecture, natural scenery and fleeting expressions on the faces.

Day 08. Aurangabad - Mandu (about 350 km)
Today we drive to Mandu. (in the Middle Ages Mandu is also known as the "City of Joy"). Mandu is situated about 90 kms from Indore. Mandu, also known as Shadibad, which means the city of joy. Mandu was fortified as early as the 6th century, but gained prominence in the 10th century as the fort capital of the Parmar rulers of Malwa. Mandu is perched along the Vindhyan ranges at 592 m. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 09. Mandu - Dhar - Mandu (about 80 km)
Today we have sightseeing in Mandu. We visit Jahaz Mahal, a palace shaped like a ship that floats serenely on the bosom of the lake, Its shape and kiosks looks like a heavenly ship sailing into eternity, it is very famous place of Mandu. After this we visit Hindola Mahal, Champa Baoli, Jami Masjid, Hoshang Shah’s Tomb, Rewa Kund (Palace of Baz Bahadur), Roopmati Pavilion. After the sightseeing of Mandu we have an excursion to Dhar.
Dhar: Dhar is situated about 35 km from Mandu. Dhar was the capital of the Parmar kings. It was later conquered by Muslims. Dhar was founded by Raja Bhoj. The monuments here are a combination of Hindu, Afghan and Mughal architecture. We have a good view of the city from the ramparts of the well-preserved forts. . In the large stone mosque (Bhojashala) you can admire Sanskrit inscriptions. Next to the mosque is the grave of the Muslim saint Kamal Maula. After the sightseeing we dribe back to mandu.

Day 10. Mandu - Omkareshwar - Maheshwar - Mandu (about 220 km / 5 hrs)
Today we have excursions to Omkareshwar and Maheshwar.
Omkareshwar: Omkareshwar is situated about 77 km. from Indore. It is an important place of pilgrimage. It is a sacred island shaped like the holy Hindu symbol ‘Om’ in the middle of the Narmada, which has drawn pilgrims for centuries. The island is over 2 km long and 1 km wide and is divided from north to south by a deep gully. The Omkar Mandhata temple is situated at the eastern end of the island. This temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva. This temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga in India, a natural rock feature that is believed to be representations of Siva in the form of a linga. This temple has beautiful carvings.
Maheswar: Maheshwar is situated about 91 km. from Indore. Maheshwar is situated on the northern banks of the Narmada river. Maheshwar has been identified as Mahishmati, the ancient capital of King Kartivirarjun. This ancient town is mentioned in the Ramayana and the Mahabharata and revived by Ahilya Bai, the Holkar queen of Indore. This town is also known throughout India for its Maheshwar saris. Maheshwar has beautiful temples and a fort complex. The temples and fort complex are reflected quietly in the river flowing below. The temples which can be seen in Maheshwar are Kalshwara, Rajarajeshwara, Vithaleshwara and Ahileshwar. After the sightseeing we drive back to Mandu.

Day 11. Mandu - Ujjain (about 145 km)
Today we drive to Ujjain. Ujjain is one of the greatest cities of ancient India and one of the seven sacred cities of Hindus in India. It is also one of the four towns where the Kumbh Mela is held and plays as a host up to a million pilgrims who gather on the place every twelve years. The city has had a long and distinguished history. According to legend, the gods and the demons once churned the ocean for Kumbha (a pot of divine nectar). First emerged a pot of vish or poison. The Lord Shiva drank it down. The poison was so strong that his divine neck turned blue and he was known as the Nilkantha or the blue-necked one. It all happened at Ujjain and that is the reason for its sacredness. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 12. Ujjain
Today we have sightseeing Tour of Ujjain. We visit the famous temple of Ujjain. Mahakaleshwar Temple, Mahakaleshwar Temple with its soaring Shikhar (tower) dominates the skyline and life of Ujjain. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and houses the lingam of Lord Shiva. This temple is also an important pilgrimage centre for Hindus. This temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, and believed to be swayambhu (born of itself), deriving its Shakti or power from within itself. Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, located close to the tank near Mahakaleshwar Temple. This temple enshrines a large sculpted image of Ganesh. Kaliadeh Palace, is situated about 8 km from the city centre. The Kaliadeh Palace is built on the banks of the Shipra river. This once imposing building was built by Mahmud Khilji in 1458. Akbar stayed here in 1601.

Day 13. Ujjain - Bhopal (about 192 km)
Today we drive to Bhopal. Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh which was founded by Raja Bhoj in 11th century. Bhopal is known as the city of lakes. Upon arrival in Bhopal, you will be met by an Indo Vacations representative and transferred to the hotel. In the evening we have sightseeing in Bhopal. We will visit Taj -ul- Mosque, Birla Museum, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Gandhi Bhawan and also enjoy the boat ride in the lake. Then apply drive to the Bhimteke caves.

Day 14. Bhopal: Excursion Udaigir and Sanchi
Today we have excursion to Sanchi (UNESCO Heritage Site) and Udaigiri. Stupa of Sanchi is one of the oldest stone structure. The construction work of this stupa was look after by Ashoka's wife, Devi herself, who was the daughter of a merchant of Vidisha. Sanchi was also her birthplace and also the venue of her and Ashoka's wedding.The Udayagiri Caves are a Hindu tradition site which are situated near Vidisha in Madhya Pradesh. They were decorated properly and reworked under the command of Chandragupta II, Emperor of the Gupta Empire, in the late 4th and 5th century CE. Udayagiri Caves are most important archaeological sites from the Gupta period and are presently a tourist site under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India.

Day 15. Bhopal - Bhimbetka - Bhopal (about 95 kms)
Today we take an excursion to Bhimbetka. Bhimbetka is an archaeological place in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It is included in UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bhimbetka Hill has the richest collection of prehistoric paintings associated with many other archaeological discoveries. The site was discovered by V.S. Wakanker of the Vikram University, Ujjain, in 1957 and systematic digging at the site has continued since 1971. The hill is located in the middle of a dense deciduous forest and there are over 30 species of trees with edible fruit, flower seeds and tubers. There is also still a rich wildlife including several species of deer, wild boar, sloth bear, antelope, leopard, jackal, scaly anteater and a wide range of species of birds. Perennial springs provide the essential year round water supply. In this place, over 700 caves with Neolithic rock-paintings have been discovered. The oldest paintings are at least as old as those of the Pyrenees. Over 500 caves contain prehistoric and later paintings and a smaller number have evidence of Stone Age habitation from the Lower Palaeolithic period to the late Mesolithic. Some of the cave paintings are quite small, while some are about 10 metres long. Red and white are the dominant colours used, but green and yellow are also found. The paintings belongs to three periods. The prehistoric phase is dominated by wild life paintings of cattle, boar, tiger, deer engaged in various activities, and varies from tiny miniatures to life size and often life-like representation. Hunting is a common theme, the humans during this period being shown simply as “stick men”. Some women are shown, occasionally pregnant. In the transitional period, men are shown grazing or riding animals, but animals lose their proportions and naturalism. The later period is quite different, and animals and animal hunts are replaced by battle scenes with men riding on elephants and horses with spears, bows and arrows and probably date from the early centuries AD. Bhimbetka is designed as a place of residence of the hero Bhima of Indian epic Mahabharata, Bhimbetka was first mentioned in Indian archeological records based on information from local tribal people as a Buddhist site. After sightseeing we drive back to Bhopal.

Day 16. Bhopal - Jhansi (per zug) - Orchha (about 17 km)
After breakfast drive to Bhopal railway station for train to Jhansi. The place Jhansi has a turbulent history. Most tourists come here only because it is a convenient starting point for a trip to Khajuraho. Arrival in Jhansi and transferred to hotel in Orchha. Arrival in Orchha in the afternoon. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 17. Orchha
Orchha's grandeur has been captured in stone, frozen in time, a rich legacy to the ages. In this medieval city, the hand of time has rested lightly and the palaces and temples built by its Bundela rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries retain much of their pristine perfection.
In the morning we visit the temples and palaces in Orchha. We visit the Jehangir Mahal Palace, Raj Mahal whose wall paintings have depict beautiful natural scenes and motifs. Then we visit the Ram Raja Temple which is the main temple of Orchha. It dates from the 16th century and is visited by thousands of visitors regularly. In the temple there is a statue of the god Rama which once brought from the wife of the ruler of Bundela of the pilgrimage from Ayodhya.

Day 18. Orchha - Khajuraho (about 172 km)
In the morning we drive to Khajuraho. Khajuraho was the capital of the Chandela dynasty. The Chandela Kings claimed descent from the moon. The temples of Khajuraho are among the finest examples of temple craftsmanship in the whole of India. The rest of the day at leisure. Best known is the Laksman Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and whose input the holy trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh is ready.

Day 19. Khajuraho - Varanasi (by air)
Today we visit the temple complex of Eastern Group and Western Group to see the most beautiful temples in India. The temples of Khajuraho are considered the epitome of Hindu architecture and sculpture art. Most famous among them is the Laxmana Temple which is dedicated to god Vishnu. The presence of erotic sculptures in the Temples at Khajuraho is one of the expression among others of the celebration of all human activities displaying different aspects of Hinduism. Then we have flight to Varanasi. Arrival in Varanasi. The rest of the day at leisure. Varanasi is without doubt India’s most sacred city and thus visited by over one million people. Varanasi is also called the city of light. Buddha visited this city in 500 BC. In the evening drive to the banks of the river Ganges to experience prayer ceremony.

Day 20. Varanasi
In the early morning we take a boat ride on the Holy River Ganges and enjoy sunrise on the boat. Ghats (flight of steps) and the activities of pilgrims on that are the principal attraction for visitors to Varanasi. Thousands of pilgrims and devotees visit this city to make holy prayers, to meditate and to purify themselves through taking a bath in the holy river Ganges. In the noon we visit the city of Varanasi.
After visit in Varanasi we drive to Sarnath (10 km). Sarnath is the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon at deer park.

Day 21. Varanasi - Calcutta (by train)
Today you will be transferred to railway station for overnight train journey to Kolkata.

Day 22. Kolkata (Calcutta)
Arrival in Kolkata. Upon arrival in Kolkata you will be transferred to the hotel. Kolkata is the cosmopolitan city and capital of West Bengal. Kolkata is the largest city of India. Kolkata is an extraordinarily vibrant and lively city. This city was once the colonial city of British in India. Today we explore this vibrant and lively city. We will visit the Victoria Memorial and magnificent buildings in the area of Chowringhee and Dalhousie Square. We will also visit the Jain-Temple and the Fort Williams. In the area of Joransanko we have the opportunity to visit the family house of the famous Indian writer Rabindranath Tagore.

Day 23. Kolkata - Shantiniketan (about 200 km / 05 hrs)
Today we drive to Shantiniketan. Shantiniketan was founded by Maharishi Debendranath Tagore, father of Rabindranath Tagore, who also established an ashram here, later known as the Abode of Peace. In 1901, his son started an experimental place of learning with a classroom under the trees and a group of five pupils. This place later became to be known as Vishva Bharati University in 1921 which attracts students from all over the world and aspires to be a spiritual meeting ground in a serene, culturally rich and artistic environment. Today, Shantiniketan is a great centre for higher studies in arts and known for the famous Vishva Bharati University. The whole place is steeped in the memory of the great poet, Rabindranath Tagore.

Day 24. Shantiniketan
Today we spend whole day in Santiniketan. We visit the Vishva Bharati University which was was founded by Rabindranath Tagore in 1921. Then we visit Uttarayan Complex where the poet, Rabindranath Tagore lived consists of several buildings in a distinct architectural style. After this we proceed to Sriniketan, situated about 3 km. away from Shantiniketan. It is a sister institute and dedicated to rural development programmers.

Day 25. Shantiniketan - Kolkata (about 200 km / 05 hrs)
In the morning we drive from Shantiniketan to Kolkata. The rest of the day is at leisure

Day 26. Flight to Home Destination
Today, the day is today at leisure. You have to checkout from the hotel up to 12.00 am. Depending on your departure time you will be transferred to Airport / Railway station for onwards journey. (End of Tour)

Tour Reservation
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About Hotels:
We provide you the accommodation as per your budget mentioned above in the table of hotels category for any of the booked tour. Hotels provided by us are from budget to luxury class hotels. The criteria for selecting hotels by us remains the best value of your money. We also provide you wherever possible accommodation in heritage hotels. Heritage Hotels are old Palaces, Forts and Grand mansions of Maharajas which have been later renovated and converted into Hotels. Rooms are decorated all individually. Rooms are comfortable, romantic and present the flair of olden Maharaja days.