Travelpack

New Delhi • Amritsar • Chandigarh • Shimla • Agra

Overview
Begin an extraordinary culinary adventure with Flavours of the North, where you’ll taste and master the authentic cuisines of Northern India, from Delhi’s Mughlai delights to Amritsar’s street food, Shimla’s Himachali flavours and Agra’s Peshawari cuisine, seeing India not just with your eyes but with your taste buds.Enjoy the best of both worlds with unique travel itineraries and thoughtfully crafted accommodations as you cook Mughlai kebabs in Delhi, perfect the Amritsari Kulcha, and savour private dining at Lakhori while also experiencing the Taj Mahal, the Golden Temple, and the serene mountains of Shimla. Travel by high-speed train and the Vistadome Toy Train, stay in hand-picked 4-star hotels, and end with a farewell feast at the Great Kebab Factory for a truly holistic Northern India experience.

Day 1: Flavours of North: A Culinary Journey Through India/ Arrive Delhi @ 0915 Hrs. - The Arrival and Mughlai Delights
Flight from London Heathrow Airport to Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport
Stay at The Park New Delhi for 3 nights
Upon your arrival at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport at 09:15, a private car will be waiting to transfer you to your 4-star hotel. Hotel check-in time is 1400 Hrs. Delhi is the capital city of India and is regarded as the heart of the nation. The city is popular for its enriched culture and heritage. The city hosts some famous historical monuments and is developing with the passing of time. The influence of religious diversity can be seen in the city along with the cultural impact of the Mughal, the ancient Indian and the British. There are many beautiful gardens in the city that provide opportunities to walk leisurely in the midst of greenery. After you've had a chance to freshen up and settle in, we will begin the adventure with a city tour of Old Delhi. We will explore the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, visit Jama Masjid and take a rickshaw ride to get a feel for the bustling atmosphere. In the evening, it's time for our first culinary immersion. We will head to a well-regarded Lakhori restaurant that specialises in Mughlai cuisine. You'll have a private dining experience where you will taste the secrets of dishes like kebabs, biryanis, and rich curries.
Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 2: Delhi A Glimpse of Delhi & Cooking Class
Today is dedicated to the historical landmarks of Delhi. After breakfast, we will visit Humayun's Tomb, a magnificent precursor to the Taj Mahal, Lotus Temple, and then head to Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We'll also drive by India Gate and the President's House. In the evening, we will have Indian cuisine cooking class and dinner in Delhi. This session will be a masterclass in rich, creamy curries like Butter Chicken and Shahi Paneer, along with the art of making flaky parathas. You'll learn about the history and techniques that make Indian food so special, with a focus on preparing some of the key dishes. It's a fantastic way to end your culinary journey in the capital.
Breakfast & Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 3: Delhi Exploring History & Tastes
After a leisurely breakfast, we'll explore the Akshardham Temple. The rest of the day is yours to relax, perhaps do some souvenir shopping, or explore a local market like Dilli Haat, which showcases Indian crafts and food from different states. For your dinner, we will focus on another facet of Mughlai food. This time, we will delve into different types of kebabs and tandoori breads at a local restaurant. Breakfast & Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel

Day 4: Delhi to Amritsar The Golden City beckons! (Train: Swarn Shatabadi 0720/1320 Hrs.)
Stay at Hyatt Regency Amritsar Hotel &Spa for 3 nights
Train Delhi–Amritsar by Exe AC Chair Car
Today, we're off to Amritsar. After an early Tea/Coffee at the Hotel, we'll transfer you to the New Delhi Railway Station to catch the high-speed train for Amritsar. Breakfast on board the train. This journey will be comfortable and efficient, getting you to Amritsar in just a few hours. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your 4-star hotel. Amritsar is a bustling city of Punjab and is just 28 kilometres from the border with Pakistan. This proximity adds to its cultural and historical significance. At the heart of Amritsar lies its walled old town, a maze of narrow streets and historic buildings. The highlight of this area is the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), the most revered religious complex in Sikhism. The temple's gleaming gold-plated exterior is a sight to behold, especially when reflected in the surrounding Amrit Sarovar tank. This sacred tank, or lake, is an integral part of the Golden Temple complex. Pilgrims from all over the world come here to bathe in its holy waters, believing it brings spiritual purification. The temple itself is accessed via a causeway, creating a sense of a sacred journey as devotees walk toward its central sanctum. In the evening, we will head to a local restaurant for Amritsari cuisine. The classic dishes like Amritsari Kulcha and Chole (chickpea curry). It's a chance to get hands-on with the food that defines the city. Breakfast & Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 5: Amritsar Spirituality & Satiety
After a leisurely breakfast, start the day with a visit to the magnificent Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib). Witness the daily rituals and learn about the tenets of Sikhism. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to participate in the Langar, the community meal served to thousands of devotees. This is a humbling and eye-opening experience. Next, you can explore the Durgiana Temple complex, constructed in the 16th century, which stands as a significant homage to Goddess Durga. This ancient temple is conveniently located just outside the Lohgarh Gate in Amritsar. Often referred to as the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, the Durgiana Temple bears a striking architectural resemblance to the Golden Temple, with its stunning design and serene ambience. This resemblance makes it a notable landmark in the area, attracting both devotees and tourists. The temple is an essential pilgrimage site, reflecting the rich cultural and religious heritage of Amritsar. Its golden facade and spiritual significance make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the historical and sacred sites of the city. In the evening, you will have another Amritsari cuisine at a local restaurant. This time, chef will serve you traditional Amritsari fish fry and other popular street food snacks that make this city a foodie's paradise. Breakfast & Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 6: Amritsar Heritage and Gastronomy
Post breakfast, you will visit the Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden in Amritsar that holds a sombre place in Indian history. On April 13, 1919, a tragic and defining event occurred here when British Indian Army soldiers, under the command of Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer, opened fire on a peaceful assembly of men, women, and children. The gathering had convened to protest against the repressive Rowlatt Act and to celebrate the festival of Baisakhi. This brutal massacre shocked the entire nation and became a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence. Jallianwala Bagh is now a memorial, with a martyr's well and bullet marks preserved to remind visitors of the tragedy. You will have the rest of the day free to explore the local markets of Amritsar, which are famous for their textiles and handicrafts. Afternoon, step up for an excursion to the Wagah border is a unique and exhilarating experience. The Wagah border is famous for its daily "Change of Guard" ceremony. Every evening, just before sunset, soldiers from the Indian Border Security Force and the Pakistan Rangers come together for this event. The ceremony begins with a parade by the soldiers, followed by a series of high-energy and synchronised drills. The highlight of the event is the lowering of the national flags of both countries in a perfectly coordinated manner. The spectators witness the waving flags and chanting patriotic slogans. The atmosphere is electric, filled with national pride and a sense of camaraderie despite the historical tensions between the two nations. For dinner, you will taste a traditional Amritsari tandoori feast, including dishes like Maa Ki Dal and Amritsari Chicken, and the secret to getting those perfect smoky flavours. Breakfast & Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 7: Amritsar to Chandigarh A City of Design
Stay at The LaLiT Chandigarh for 1 night
Kalka–Shimla Himalayan Railway Train
After breakfast, we will begin our journey by car to Chandigarh, a city renowned for its modern architecture and urban planning. The drive will take approximately 4-5 hours. Upon arrival, you will check into your 4-star hotel. The afternoon is at your leisure to relax or perhaps explore the city's famous Sukhna Lake or Rock Garden. Chandigarh, a city in northern India, serves as the capital of both Haryana and Punjab. Designed by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier in the 1950, it's celebrated for its unique blend of modern architecture and urban planning. Known for its cleanliness and green spaces, Chandigarh is one of India's cleanest cities, featuring numerous parks and gardens like the famous Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake. Head to visit the Rock Garden and Sukhana Lake. The Rock Garden is a unique sculpture garden created by artist Nek Chand. Industrial & home waste material is used to build this amazing garden. It's a fascinating garden to explore and admire the artwork. In the evening, you can visit Sukhna Lake and stroll along the riverside. Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh, nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, is a serene man-made reservoir surrounded by lush greenery. The lake's scenic beauty and vibrant community atmosphere make it a must-visit destination. You will have dinner at your Hotel. Breakfast & Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 8: Chandigarh to Shimla A Himalayan Train Journey (Toy Train:0700/1220 Hrs.)
Stay at Radisson Hotel Shimla for 3 nights
Early morning, you can get a packed breakfast from the Hotel and then drive from Chandigarh to Kalka Railway Station. Here, you will board the Himdarshan Vistadome Glass Dome Toy Train to Shimla. This is a highlight of the trip, offering breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, and tunnels as you slowly ascend the hills. The journey will take a few hours. Upon arrival in Shimla, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you will enjoy the Himachali Dhaam at a local restaurant. Breakfast & Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 9 : Shimla The Queen of the Hills
After a leisurely breakfast, we will explore Shimla's key sights. We'll walk along The Ridge and the Mall Road, visiting Christ Church and Scandal Point. You can also visit the Viceregal Lodge, a building that was once the summer residence of the British Viceroys of India. Your dinner tonight will focus on another Himachali special Dhaam. This is a festive thali-style meal that includes several curries, rice, and a sweet dish. It's an opportunity to learn about the significance of this meal. Breakfast & Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 10: Shimla Mountain Flavours and Views
Post breakfast, you can either relax at your Hotel or visit Kufri, a small hill station known for its scenic beauty. Alternatively, you can spend more time exploring Shimla at your own pace. This evening, you will enjoy the third Himachali Dhaam. Breakfast & Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 11: Shimla Chandigarh (Drive 4 Hrs. Approx.)
Train from Chandigarh–Delhi by Exe AC CC
Stay at The Park New Delhi for 1 night
Chandigarh Delhi (Train: KLK Shatabadi 1823/2150 Hrs.) Post breakfast, check out from your hotel at leisure and then drive from Shimla to the Chandigarh train station to catch the train for Delhi. Dinner is served on board the train at your seat. Upon arrival in Delhi and you will be transferred to the Hotel for check-in. Breakfast & Dinner. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 12: Delhi to Agra The City of the Taj Mahal
Stay at Grand Mercure Agra for 1 night
Post breakfast, we will take 4 4-hour drive to Agra, the city of the magnificent Taj Mahal. Upon arrival, you will check into the Hotel. Agra is a city offering a discovery of the beautiful era. Agra has a rich history, reflected in its numerous monuments dotted in and around the city. The earliest citation for Agra comes from the mythological era, where the epic Mahabharata refer to Agra as Agravana, meaning paradise in Sanskrit. Ptolemy, the famous second-century A.D. geographer, was the first person who refer to Agra by its modern name. The Modern Agra was founded by Sikandar Lodi, ruler of the Lodi dynasty in the 16th century. It was when Shah Jahan descended the Mughal throne that Agra reached the zenith of architectural beauty. In the afternoon, you will visit the historic Agra Fort and then the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. Afternoon, you can visit the magnificent Agra Fort, which was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar between 1565 and 1573. It served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1638. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its impressive red sandstone walls, which stretch for about 2.5 kilometres. It features a blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles. Later, visit the World Famous Taj Mahal overlooking the River Yamuna. The Taj Mahal is a classic example of Mughal architecture, with the Taj itself built as a mausoleum at the northern end of an extensive formal walled garden designed in the charbagh style and structured on the Islamic theme of paradise. The whole site was built by Shah Jahan between 1632 and 1653 as the final resting place of his favourite wife, Arjumand Bann Begum (also known as Mumtaz Mahal), who died in 1631 shortly after giving birth to their fourteenth child. Upon his death in 1666, Shah Jahan was buried alongside his wife in the Taj. Stay over at the Taj Mahal and admire the magical view of the seven wonders of the world at sunset. After experiencing the beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunset, return back to your Hotel. Your dinner will be a truly unique experience at the Peshawari Restaurant is known for its rugged, earthy flavours and focus on cooking in a clay oven. Enjoy the Mughlai food, with their signature dishes like Sikandari Raan (lamb leg). Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 13: Agra and Delhi A Final Farewell
Stay at Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi, for 1 night
After a leisurely breakfast, you will visit the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, often called the "Baby Taj". Explore the ItmadUd-Daulah Tomb, also called Baby Taj has a special place in the chronicles of both history as well as architecture. This is precisely because Itmad-ud-Daula is the very first tomb in India that is entirely made out of Marble. This is actually a mausoleum that overlooks the River Yamuna and is a tomb of Mir Ghiyas Beg, a minister in the court of Shah Jahan. Post visit, drive to Delhi and upon arriva,l check in to your Hotel. In the evening, you will be transferred to enjoy dinner at The Great Kebab Factory. While this is not a cooking class, it's the perfect farewell dinner where you can indulge in an exquisite, all-you-can-eat selection of their famous kebabs, a true celebration of the Mughlai food you've been learning about. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 14: Depart Delhi @ 1140 Hrs.
After Breakfast, transfer to Delhi International Airport to catch your flight. We hope this culinary and cultural journey through Northern India leaves you with a lifetime of delicious memories!

What is included in the offer?
• International flights with 23kg baggage
• Meal plan: half board throughout the tour
• 3 nights in New Delhi at The Park Hotel in a Luxury Room
• 3 nights in Amritsar at Hyatt Regency in a Guest Room
• 1 night in Chandigarh at The Lalit Chandigarh in a Deluxe Room
• 3 nights in Shimla at Radisson Hotel Shimla in a Deluxe Room
• 1 night in New Delhi at The Park Hotel in a Luxury Room
• 1 night in Agra at Grand Mercure Agra in a Deluxe Room
• 1 night in Delhi at Pride Plaza Aero City in a Deluxe Room
• Cycle rickshaw ride in Old Delhi and a visit to the Chandni Chowk market
• Witness the Change of Guard Ceremony at the Wagah Border in Amritsar
• Guided heritage walk in Shimla
• All transfers, sightseeing, and excursions with a guide
• Train journey from Delhi to Amritsar and Chandigarh
• Kalka–Shimla Himalayan Scenic Rail Journey

Based on 2 adults sharing

Deposit: £450pp

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Meal Plans