Mandu and The Ajanta Caves
Situated at the heart of the country and set against the backdrop of the Vindhya Range, the ancient fortress town of Mandu perches atop a sparsely forested plateau. The true beauty of the region opens up during monsoons – lush green, whichever direction your eyes travel.
It is believed Mandu was built in the sixth century, and has seen the rise and fall of many dynasties. As a result, it is host to some of the finest examples of architecture in India. Be it the Jahaz Mahal, Hindola Mahal, Jami Masjid, Baz Bahadur Mahal, or Roopmati Pavillion, Mandu will transport you to the era of bygone glory.
Explore the grand architecture of a once powerful kingdom and witness memorable sunsets over the Narmada Valley. An ideal tour if you wish to go off the beaten track, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, while admiring stunning views, pristine nature, and the faded grandeur of a once flourishing town.
Recommended Itinerary
DAY 01 - FLIGHT
Fly to Delhi
DAY 2 - DELHI
Arrive into Delhi and stay the night at the charming Haveli Hauz Khas, a family-run small boutique hotel, within easy walking distance of the busy market of Hauz Khas; at leisure. If more convenient we will use an airport hotel.
DAYS 3 & 4 - CHAMBAL
Leave Delhi by a private car for Jarar near Agra; stay at the Chambal Safari Lodge; enjoy a nature walk and a boat ride on the Chambal to spot gharials, dolphins and a variety of riverine birds; a possible visit to the Bateshwar temples.
DAYS 5 & 6 - GWALIOR
Drive to Gwalior, stay at the Usha Kiran Palace. See the Fort and the Scindia Museum. Enjoy a son et lumiere show.
DAYS 7 & 8 - BHOPAL
Take a train from Jhansi to Bhopal; stay at the Jehan Numa Palace; see Bhopal and take an excursion to Sanchi.
DAYS 9, 10 & 11 - SATPURA
Drive to Satpura National Park. See the Paleolithic era Bhimbetka Caves en route. Stay at Reni Pani Jungle Lodge for 3 nights. Enjoy jeep safaris, nature walks and boat rides.
DAY 12 - DHAR
To Dhar after a morning safari; stay the night at Jhira Bagh Palace.
DAYS 13 & 14 - MAHESHWAR
Visit Mandu and drive on to Maheshwar; stay at the Ahilya Fort; walk along the serene ghats, enjoy a boat ride on the Narmada; see Maheshwar silk being woven.
DAYS 15, 16 & 17 - AURANGABAD
A long drive to Aurangabad for three nights at Vivanta by Taj; visit the 2000 years old Ajanta Caves; spend a day visiting Ellora, Daulatabad Fort and Bibi-ka-Makbara.
DAY 18 - MUMBAI-LONDON
Fly in the morning to Mumbai for an afternoon connection to London.
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Testimonials
“Whilst still reeling with the sights, sounds and scents of our recent trip, I want to thank you for organising such a wonderful itinerary for us. The slower pace, staying three nights in so many locations made for an extremely relaxing trip and staying in smaller establishments gave us the opportunity to interact with so many fellow guests and our hosts… I think staying slightly off the regular ‘tourist track’ meant we got a little closer to the beating heart of India.”