Delhi, a vibrant and historic city, has been a nucleus of power for nearly a millennium. Before India's independence in 1947, dynasties and empires alike have occupied the city and their impressive remnants can be found dotted throughout its modern streets. The towering Qutb Minar minaret, a 12th-century marvel constructed by the Delhi Sultanate, and the Mughal Empire's impressive Red Fort, a vast complex, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that invite visitors to step back in time. New Delhi, built by the British Raj in 1931, now holds all three branches of the Indian government.

New Delhi is a municipality of the National Capital Territory of Delhi and the capital of India. It's wide streets and government buildings stand in stark contrast to Old Delhi's historic gems and narrow roads. Established in 1936 by the British Raj, it was their new capital before India attained its independence through political organization and nation-wide actions, including the Quit India and Non-Cooperation Movements. On August 15, 1947, the Indian flag was raised above the ramparts of the Red Fort as a symbol of independence and New Delhi became the current capital.

Founded as the capital for a Delhi sultan and converted into the Mughal Empire's seat of power for 150 years, Agra is no stranger to ceremonial splendor and is studded with some of the most impressive architecture in India. The Taj Mahal, perhaps the most renowned Mughal structure in the world, is a marble pearl that gleams alongside the Yamuna River. Commissioned in 1631 by Shah Jahan to memorialize his empress consort, Mumtaz Mahal, as a depiction of her home in the afterlife, the Taj Mahal features colorful inlays of semi-precious stones and intricate Arabic calligraphy.

The splendor of the Taj Mahal is best appreciated at sunrise, when the early morning rays cast the ornate mausoleum in gold hues. Visitors at this time can glimpse the Taj's impressive silhouette and explore the grounds before the crowds. Another of Agra's Mughal treasures, the Agra Fort, is crafted from vibrant red sandstone and has been shaped by each of its successive rulers. Its regal grounds recall the elegant tastes of the sultans and emperors of its past. Shah Jahan, the commissioner of the Taj Mahal, was deposed and kept prisoner here.

In 1727, Sawai Jai Singh II of the Kachwaha Rajputs built a new capital, Jaipur, to accommodate the growing population of his people. The new city was designed according to the principles of Vastu Shastra, a Hindu architectural science where buildings are crafted in harmony with the natural environment. At its heart is the City Palace, an impressive complex comprised of colorful gates, the ornate Chandra Mahal and the intricate Hawa Maha. Just outside the City Palace's gates lies the Pink City, where every building is mandated by law to be painted its namesake color.

The artistic nature of Jaipur is hard to deny; the complex windows of the Hawa Mahal, the scientific precision of the Jantar Mantar and the marvelous Jal Mahal all attest to this. Set mere miles from these stunning constructions is their predecessor, the Amber Fort. Perched atop a hill, the 16th-century fort is a striking example of Rajput architecture and a veritable palace constructed of sandstone. It contains the Sheesh Mahal, which gleams in the sunlight due to its coating of concave mirrors, and the impressive marble lattices and floral inlays of Jas Mandir.

Along the banks of the Brahmaputra River lies Guwahati, widely considered to be the gateway to the northeast. A city of cultures, it owes its diversity to its past. Since its origin as the capital of Kamarupa, a Hindu kingdom, Guwahati has seen the rule of the Ahom people, and the Mughal and British Empires. As a result, a collection of temples, mosques and gurdwara are peppered throughout the streets and a multitude of festivals bring celebration to the city. Exhibits at the Assam State Museum display artifacts and historic art that emphasize the region's storied past.

Guwahati owes its existence to its lush riverfront. Ancient cities stood on these banks, drawing their livelihood from the Brahmaputra's waters. Today, this legacy can be seen in the boats that navigate Guwahati's harbor and the temples, including the renowned Hindu Kamakhya Temple, that cluster near its shores and on its island. Markets pop up along the water, with stalls featuring woven bowls, fruit and chop, a dish of mashed and fried potatoes served with chutney. From the decks of boats sailing the Brahmaputra, the daily life of villages lining the river can be glimpsed.

Kaziranga National Park abuts the Brahmaputra River and encompasses over 430 square miles of lush forest, open jungle and grasslands. This diverse landscape was originally set aside in 1908 in an effort to conserve the dwindling population of one-horned rhinos. Now, the park has expanded to include a tiger reserve and serves as a breeding ground for elephants and wild water buffalo. Jeep excursions into Kaziranga National Park offer a chance to glimpse these incredible creatures and learn about the importance of the park's continued conservation efforts.

Like many national parks, Kaziranga has its roots in conservation. When Mary Curzon, Vicereine of India, visited the area in 1904 to see the one-horned rhino, all she found were footprints. Her guide, Balaram Hazarika, told her of the species's endangerment and pressed upon her the need for conservation. Now, the park is home to two-thirds of the one-horned rhino's global population and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is noted for its biodiversity. From the river, visitors can truly appreciate the park's verdant landscape and keep an eye out for its magnificent residents.

A quaint village along the Brahmaputra River, Biswanath Ghat gets its name from the ancient Biswanath temple that was situated here and its Ghat-a set of stairs that lead down to the river's edge. Selected as India's Best Tourism Village in 2023, Biswanath Ghat features a collection of temples that dot its streets, including an ancient temple dedicated to Shiva, now mostly ruins that lie along the banks of the Brahmaputra. Intriguing animals, including elephants and the Ganges river dolphin, can be spotted from the shores of this colorful village.

Majuli is one of the world's largest river islands but is constantly challenged by the ever-changing Brahmaputra. Birthed from a flood during the 17th century, the island spans over 136 square miles and is home to more than 150,000 people, three languages and a multitude of cultures. Many people practice neo-Vaishnavite, a major Hindu denomination, and partake in Bhaona, or stage performances of events well documented in Hindu scripture. Handcrafted bamboo and clay masks that depict deities and characters feature in these performances, bringing the scriptures to life.

Nimati Ghat, like the rest of the state of Assam, sits within the Brahmaputra Valley, land which was once home to the mighty Ahom Kingdom. Ruling for an impressive, uncontested 600 years, the Ahoms created a multi-cultural society which still persists, with more than 14 languages and 5 religions co-existing in the state of Assam today. The Ahom Kingdom also left behind a rich architectural legacy; their former capital city of Sivasagar is home to the stately royal palace and Temple to Lord Shiva, a Hindu pilgrimage site situated on a vast man-made lake.

Delhi's rich history has given rise to a vibrant culinary scene. The Mughal Empire introduced kebabs and biryani, a dish of savory, well-spiced meat and rice. The city itself is responsible for the creation of chole bhature, a spicy chickpea curry served with fried bread and chutney, and murgh makhani, or butter chicken, one of India's most famed dishes. It's vegetarian counterpart, dal makhani, is another favorite that hails from the state of Punjab. Lassi, a refreshing yogurt drink, and kulfi, a creamy cardamom ice cream, are excellent compliments to any meal.

Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.