The sun is setting over the legendary Taj Mahal and you have the perfect view from your spacious room inspired by Mughal palace design at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra. Soon you’ll head to a meal bursting with fragrant spices and unwind in a cocktail lounge literally dripping in gold. Best of all, your experience is helping to support the locals.
Witnessing the beauty of the Taj Mahal may be a must-do for travelers to India, especially if they’re first-timers. But India has a wealth of rich cultural treaures for travelers of all kinds. From its various cultures to its delicious cuisine and unique experiences, India offers more than you can even imagine. So where do you begin? For travelers who want expert advice, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts—founded 85 years ago by one of the most visionary and influential hoteliers in India—can help steer your journey while offering a way of giving back.
That’s because the luxury hotel brand has launched a program called Exotic Vacations. Designed for trips of six days or longer, Exotic Vacations lets you choose from suggested itineraries or tailor your own adventure. You’ll travel to unforgettable UNESCO World Heritage sites and experience authentic India while making your home at Oberoi Hotels & Resorts across the county—all of which are located in iconic, must-see destinations—and unwind with the combination of luxurious amenities and personalized service that the brand is famous for.
Plus, your Exotic Vacation will help support important local initiatives. With each Exotic Vacations booking, Oberoi will sponsor the care of one child for a year, through its partnership with SOS Children’s Villages of India. The organization works with vulnerable children to provide safe and nurturing environments for education, nutrition, healthcare, and family-based care. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to show gratitude to their host country and give back in a meaningful way.
When booking an Exotic Vacation—which includes accommodations, daily breakfast, airport transfers, and more—chart out an itinerary from 13 participating Oberoi Hotels & Resorts around the country. Opt for the iconic locations like Agra, home of the Taj Mahal, or the gorgeous pink city of Jaipur. You can also explore the wonders of nature at places like The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort, next to Ranthambhore National Park and Tiger Reserve, or the stunning Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas – An Oberoi Resort. Each offers unique Oberoi Experiences authentic to that destination, making your stay even richer.
Whether you’re going on a jet-setting journey around the country or looking for an immersive trip that focuses on a couple must-see destinations, you’ll also enjoy benefits such as daily yoga sessions, 24-hour butler service, and discounted spa treatments. Along the way, you’ll discover that the experience at Oberoi Hotels & Resorts is rooted in service excellence, with personal care and attention afforded to every guest.
Here are some suggestions for experiencing the real India with Oberoi Hotels & Resorts.
If You Have 6 or 7 Nights Begin your trip in Delhi at The Oberoi, Gurgaon, which offers a striking urban oasis at the heart of the city, before moving on to Jaipur and Agra, home to the legendary Taj Mahal. Spend two nights at the beautifully landscaped The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur, which showcases traditional architecture, reflection pools, and mashaal torches. The peaceful setting makes it easy to balance sightseeing with yoga classes, shopping, and historian-led discussions about the city, famously painted pink in 1876 by Maharaja Ram Singh to welcome Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria. You can even enjoy sunset at the stunning Naila Fort as you sip on high tea or cocktails. Next, continue to The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra for two more nights and enjoy palatial interiors as well as commanding views of the Taj Mahal, just 2,000 feet away, before returning to The Oberoi, New Delhi for one or two nights.
If You Have 8 or 9 Nights
Experience the grandeur of Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra at a more relaxed pace than the week-long version of this itinerary. You’ll have more time to delve into one of India’s most inspiring cities, Delhi, with two nights at the beginning and end of your trip. Explore the walled city of Old Delhi and its 17th-century fort, as well as the Chandni Chowk market. In the evening, unwind with a signature Oberoi massage at the hotel’s tranquil spa, featuring marble and modern art design elements. Spend two nights in Jaipur and two nights in Agra to combine cultural experiences, such as a traditional aarti ceremony, with sightseeing and leisure activities.
If You Have 10 or 11 Nights Build on a Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra itinerary with three nights at The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, a gorgeous luxury hotel on the banks of the stunning Lake Pichola. In the state of Rajasthan, Udaipur (or “the City of Lakes”) presents a fascinating slice of local culture. Start with a sunrise boat ride across the shimmering lake, watching locals as they make offerings at lakeside temples. On day two, gear up with a yoga class before touring the impressive City Palace, and then unwind with a massage and a lakefront candlelit dinner. For day three, take a day trip to Chittorgarh Fort before witnessing the magic of Jaipur and Agra.
If You Have 12 Nights or More
With more time, explore the gorgeous Himalayas in northern India and stay at Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas – An Oberoi Resort. You can travel at a relaxing pace and truly be inspired by Delhi, Udaipur, Jaipur, and Agra, soaking up the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of India. The additional time also affords you the opportunity to take full advantage of the luxurious amenities of Oberoi’s spas, restaurants, and beautifully designed interiors. Lounge by the stunning pool in Udaipur, overlooking the picture-perfect lake. Learn about the legacy of the Mughal Empire in Agra. Take a deep dive into the flavorful details of Indian cuisine with a chef-led cooking class in Jaipur, or enjoy a sommelier-led sampling of Indian wines. It’s just the beginning of your unforgettable experience in India, which comes complete with the warm feeling of giving back.
Explore more Exotic Vacations from Oberoi Hotels & Resorts and book your magical vacation through India today!
