Adventurers gather in Toronto for the overnight Air Canada flight to Delhi.

Arriving in Delhi this evening, we are met and transfer to our hotel for a traditional Indian greeting. Le Meridien Hotel (3 nights)

Our tour of Old Delhi begins with a visit to the chaotic laneways and shops of Chandni Chowk Bazaar followed by the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque designed by Shah Jahan. In complete contrast to Old Delhi is Raj Ghat, a stunning memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Red Fort is another 17th century Shah Jahan masterpiece. After construction is was plundered by the marauding armies of Nadir Shah and British soldiers.

This morning we explore the planned city of New Delhi, visiting Qutab Minar, a towering stone monument built to symbolize the supremacy of Islam. Nearby is Humayun's Tomb, a wonderful example of Mughal architecture. Passing through the capital, we shall view India Gate, the Presidential Palace and Parliament. After lunch, we will visit Akshardham Temple, a sprawling 100 acre complex with well-maintained lawns, water fountains, carved pavilions and 234 ornate pillars.

Today we fly to Jaisalmer, the legendary fortress city that rises from the desert. High walls and towers of yellow sandstone surround the Golden Fort, which for centuries has protected the city from all invaders. Visit Lodurva village, which in the 12th century was a flourishing city and the capital of the Bhatti Rajputs. Today it is known for its Jain temples, carved from bright yellow sandstone. The splendour of these ruined Jain temples is inspiring. Rang Mahal (3 nights)

Jaisalmer Fort and Old Town are known for traditional haveli (or palaces), which are decorated with delicate jail (lattice wood screens), elegantly carved doors, and elaborate Jain temples dating from the 12th to 16th centuries. Walk the narrow streets of the fort, visiting a couple of the best haveli. Explore the local bazaars and venture outside the walls to the oasis of Gadi Sagar. This afternoon we will have free time with an opportunity to explore the Old Town on our own or relax at our hotel.

This morning we venture outside the city for a taste of rural life in the villages of Kuldhara and Khaba within Rajasthan’s desert region. This evening is a highlight, as we experience the colour and splendour of the Desert Festival. Enjoy the excitement of the camel races and the unique Dhora Dhor (Ox Cart) races. Later, we shall watch a show of folk music, dance, and fireworks.

Heading east from Jaisalmer, we drive into the heart of the Great Indian Thar Desert, where we will stay in a permanent camp. Located by the sand dunes, Samsara offers a rare opportunity to experience desert life, nomadic culture, wildlife and beautiful landscapes. In the late afternoon, a jeep safari will take us to visit a tribal village where we can watch local artisans at work and appreciate the beauty of the desert sunset. This evening enjoy dinner under the stars, accented by local folk music and kalbelia dances. Samsara Desert Camp (1 night)

Rising early we can enjoy the desert sunrise on a scenic camel ride before breakfast and departing for Jodhpur. This afternoon, on our walking tour, we explore the busy bazaars of Jodhpur, filled with textiles, jewellery, leather works, lacquer, food and more. Radisson Jodhpur Hotel (2 nights)

Overlooking Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort, with its soaring archways, contains a series of palaces, each decorated with carved stoned lattice balconies and mirrored walls. Other highlights include Jaswant Thada, the Clock Tower and bustling Sardar Market, known for its spices. Dinner is at the Hanwant Mahal, part of the royal residence, which offers majestic views of Jodhpur city. Served on Royal Thaal, dinner will be a symphony of Rajasthan’s unique culinary specialties.

Departing early, we venture south to the Jain Temple of Ranakpur. Built in the 15th century, this is one of the five holiest places for Jains. It contains over 1,444 hand carved marble pillars, each unique and exquisite. One pillar, carved from a single stone, has 108 snakeheads and bodies. This afternoon we arrive in the City of Lakes, Udaipur, cradled in the hills of the Aravalli Range. Trident Hotel (2 nights)

Visit the impressive City Palace, the focal point of the city, and Fateh Prakash Palace containing the world’s largest collection of crystal. After lunch, we set out on a heritage walk through the bustling markets, offering a glimpse of modern India with roots steeped in tradition. This evening we cruise on Lake Pichola, surrounded by the splendid hills of the Aravalli Range, magnificent palaces and temples. At the heart of the lake is Jag Mandir, the Lake Palace where we will stop for a visit.

We drive to the rural centre of Deogarh where we are in for a unique experience known as the rural rumble (a journey by special off-road vehicle). We will explore the countryside and farms with people tending to their fields and cattle. We visit a cave temple with a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enjoy vantage point views of the countryside, then stop by a lake for refreshments and bird watching opportunities. Tonight we will stay in one of the magnificent medieval castles of Rajasthan. Deogarh Mahal (1 night)

After breakfast, we head north along the Amjer Highway to the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur. Known as the Pink City, for the many rose coloured buildings lining the streets, Jaipur is home to the famous Amber Palace as well as craftwork in jewelry, enamel and printed clothes. Holiday Inn City Centre (3 nights)

Ride an elephant (if available) to the Amber Palace fortress, known for its elegant rooms like the Jag Mandir and the famous Sheesh Mahal. Enjoy view of the elegantly carved Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. This afternoon we enjoy a guided walk through the Pink City’s less touristy streets and markets where the old ways of life continue uninterrupted. This evening we have a special treat - a home-hosted vegetarian dinner with a local family where we will share stories about life in modern India.

Following a leisurely morning to rest or enjoy the amenities at our lovely hotel, we have lunch and depart on a short drive into the country. We arrive in the village of Sanganer, noted for its local textile block printing and handmade paper. The results are unique for their bright colours printed on white backgrounds. Back in Jaipur, we will have free time to explore the busy local bazaars, followed by a very different experience, a visit to Raj Mandir, one of India’s most important theatres to watch a Bollywood movie.

Enjoy lunch at the Bagh in Bharatpur with free time to enjoy the parklike setting. Nearby is legendary Fatehpur Sikri, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and deserted just 14 years later for lack of water. This ghost city showcases the grandeur and splendour of the Mughal Empire. We arrive in Agra this afternoon, one of the most important centres in Moghul India. Radisson Hotel (2 nights)

Built by Emperor Akbar between 1565 - 1573, Agra fort highlights the Mughal talent of combining beautiful design with defensive architecture. Visit the intricately detailed Taj Mahal, built by Shah Jahan in 1630 to house the mortal remains of his queen Mumtaz Maha. This architectural masterpiece, created from white marble, stands testimony to the 17 years and 20,000 craftsmen from Persia, Turkey, France and Italy that it took to complete this “Love Poem in Marble”. Enjoy another view of the Taj from ltimad-ud daulah, across the River Yamuna.

The last resting place of Akbar the Great, 13 km from the Agra Fort, the Sikandra Fort is one of the best preserved monuments in India. The fort is surrounded by a beautiful lush garden. The tomb reflects the characteristics of the great emperor, with beautiful and intricate carvings marking a phenomenal beginning to his end. We then continue back to Delhi where we will have rooms to refresh ourselves (airport hotel with four per room) and dinner. Late this evening we transfer to the airport to begin our journey back to Canada. Pride Plaza Aerocity (rooms to refresh)