Exuberant India. Treasure Trove of Color, Majesty, & Soul. 13 Days

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nterested in digging deep into India for a look at her secret side? Join us for a look right into the country's soul. Of course, we wouldn't want you to miss all the highlights of a jaunt to India, so we spend time in Delhi (Old and New). Visit a school, and spend time with the headmaster, to get a handle on India's educational process.

Varanasi, India’s hub of Hinduism, is next. Cruise the Ganges at sunset and sunrise to witness the rituals unfold. Witness the ancient Aarti ceremony, led by Hindu Brahmin priests.

Buddha came to Sarnath for a hot shower and to preach the way to nirvana. So did Emperor Ashoka, who left behind marvelous monuments to immortalize Buddha’s teachings. We head there, too.

Khajuraho was once capital of the Chandela Dynasty. In a burst of creative energy, the Chandelas built quite a collection of temples. Ornamentation on their facades is not something you’ll soon forget. There are gods, goddesses, warriors, and musicians, and men and women in an assortment of erotic poses. Historians are still trying to figure out their significance, as do we on a tour of the east and west temple complexes.

Then to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. No photograph or description has quite measured up to the beauty of the place seen firsthand. Watch as the white marble facade is illuminated at sunset. Examine the Taj’s iconic Mughal architecture. But there’s more to Agra than just the Taj. We also visit the Agra Fort, the Tomb of Itmnad-ud-Dualah and the mysterious ghost town of Fatehpur Sikri.

In Jaipur, have a look at Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, the City Palace, and Amber Palace. Fabulous—one and all.

Fly to Udaipur, home of the Mewar rulers, for a look at another City Palace (compare and contrast), several hand-picked museums, and the bustling marketplace. If you're interested take on the marketplace with a guide and driver.

Beyond the city limits, there are the Eklingji and Nagda temple complexes. Outstanding, really. In Devi Gahr, tickle your senses with a spice and cooking demonstration with lunch in a rehabbed royal palace. Snoop around the charming nearby village.

Then it’s back to Udaipur. From here you can travel home or extend your journey to any of these tempting spots:

• Bombay, the New York City of India. Some call it Mumbai.
• Bombay and Kanha National Park, perfect spot for a tiger safari.
• Jodhpur, a cubist’s dream come true in blue and the stunning Meherangarh Fort.
• Aurangabad, city of gates offering two spectacular UNESCO World Heritage sites, Ajanta and Ellora.

Exuberant India. Treasure Trove of Color, Majesty, & Soul.
    13 Days.

Departures: January through March 2009 and October through December 2009, or throughout the year as a private journey.

Prices: Per person sharing room from $8,980
               Internal air per person (estimate) $1,590
               Single supplement from $3,550