(This article is sponsored by Bestway Tours & Safaris.)

The Taj Mahal is not only one of the most famous works of architecture in the world, it also has one of the most romantic stories behind it. Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his favourite wife, the 17-hectare complex in the Indian city of Agra took 20,000 artisans more than 20 years to construct.

One of the seven wonders of the modern world, the Taj Mahal is the most photographed building in existence. Almost every head of state and royal family member who visits India takes time to see this monument of love.

About 300 kilometres from the Taj is Ranthambore National Park. Famous for its safaris, Ranthambore is home to some 60 Royal Bengal tigers, as well as leopards, striped hyenas, sloth bears, Indian wild boar, cobras, Indian pythons, and scores of other exotic animals all living in their natural habitat.

These experiences are two of the many highlights in a unique new 11-day India As A Maharaja Tour created by B.C. tour operator, Bestway Tours & Safaris. With 39 years  in the industry, Bestway is particularly known for its unique journeys to India. The tour departs on September 24, 2017, and roundtrip airfare from Vancouver to Delhi is included.

Bestway's Chief Explorer, Mahmood Poonja, noted that much work has gone into putting together the minute details needed to make this tour one-of-a-kind. For example, the tour schedules a visit of the Taj Mahal early in the morning to avoid large crowds and experience the different colours of the sunlight as it falls on the marble building—truly a photographer’s dream.

Bestway has also made special arrangements for guests to experience the different forms of traditional Indian transportation, including rickshaw rides through the bazaars of Delhi, an elephant ride in Jaipur, and a daytime train journey showcasing the rural Indian scenery.

The tour offers stays in deluxe accommodations (just like the maharajas), jeep safaris at Ranthambore, and visits to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites—all for the price of just $2,895 per person, which also includes international airfare, airline taxes, and most meals.

Developed with first-time visitors in mind, India As A Maharaja Tour reflects a wider trend of travellers who want to explore this exotic country.

“India is really becoming a must-see destination for Canadians,” explained Poonja. “It offers such a variety of cultural treasures and breathtaking natural sites. Travellers have loved our culinary, textile, archaeological, photo, and fundraising tours to India, and now with more flight options and online visas available to Canadians, the country has become more accessible than ever before.” 

The September journey from Vancouver explores the famous Golden Triangle route. The tour starts with visits to three World Heritage Sites in Old and New Delhi, including the historic Red Fort and the Humayun Gardens. Other highlights include the spice market and Birla House, the location where Mahatma Gandhi passed away which is now a pilgrimage centre housing a museum of his works.

The next two nights in Agra include visits to the Taj Mahal and the incredible abandoned capital city of Fatehpursikri. This is followed by another two nights at the historic pink city of Jaipur,  widely recognized as one of the most gorgeous locations in all of India. Jaipur is home to the famous Palace of the Winds and the majestic Amber Fort.

Another highlight is two exciting jeep safaris in Ranthambore, with opportunities to see tigers and other wild animals.

According to Poonja, the tour culminates with an interesting five-hour train ride offering plenty of opportunities to meet local folks on board. 

A clear advantage of India As A Maharaja Tour is the timing. Taking place in late September and early October, it comes when temperatures in the northern part of the country range between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius.

This time of the year also offers long hours of daylight, providing more time to visit archeological sites before darkness sets in.

Anyone who has seen the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, The Lunchbox, or The Life of Pi is probably curious to experience the charms of the Indian subcontinent.

This tour is truly an experience right out of a Merchant-Ivory film.

For more information on the India As A Maharaja Tour, call Bestway Tours & Safaris at 604-264-7378 or visit www.bestway.com.

(This article is sponsored by Bestway Tours & Safaris.)