Architecture in India — Empire to Village

£3,300 – £3,900 per person ·

7 nights ·

Group size: 4-8 people

A seven-night trip of extraordinary architecture, exceptional food and immense views.

Travel through the last 100 years of the architectural history of India. We explore Le Corbusier’s Chandigarh, ‘the city beautiful’ situated in the Shivalik hills, followed by an exclusive stay at the Amaya Hotel, designed by renowned Indian architect Bijoy Jain, founder of Studio Mumbai, with its breath taking views of the Himalayas.

We start in New Delhi with an overview of the elegant Raj-era capital designed by Edwin Lutyens, built from 1912 to the early 1930s which is now the zone of India’s most expensive real estate. A train journey on day three leads us to the new Punjabi capital Chandigarh, commissioned by Nehru in the aftermath of the bloody partition, and now its own Union Territory.

Over two busy days, we will explore the iconic landmarks of the city, experiencing Le Corbusier’s architectural brilliance from the Capitol Complex, the commercial zones, and the museums to the university. We visit the home of Pierre Jeanneret, Le Corbusier’s cousin and his original studio partner who moved to Chandigarh for the next decade and a half to oversee the building of the city.

On day four, after lunch at the Chandigarh yacht club, we drive into the Kasauli Hills, the foothills of the Himalayas to enjoy the tranquillity and award-winning ‘farm to table’ cuisine of the Amaya and to immerse ourselves in Bijoy Jain’s unique architectural philosophy.

Note: Amaya is located in the foothills of the Himalayas at an altitude of over 2000m. You will notice the difference. We will go walking in the hills so please be prepared.

Join us on this trip to experience the culture of the region through the lens of Lutyens, Le Corbusier and Bijoy Jain and their extraordinary contribution to the architectural landscape of India.

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in New Delhi

Delhi: Pick up at Indira Gandhi International Airport if required. Arrive at the tour hotel and sit by the pool if you feel like it, but try to get over your jet lag. Afternoon outing to the Lodi Gardens, one of Delhi's most beautiful parks and replete with tombs and monuments from the 15th Century. Nearby is the Lodi Art District decorated with a series of murals painted by artists from across the world, and Steinabad, the small zone of Delhi built by the Californian architect Joseph Allen Stein in the fifties and sixties. Stay at 5 Star Hotel

Day 2 Delhi

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Morning visit to the Humayun's Tomb, one of the Mughal masterpieces in Delhi. Afternoon trip to the Charles Correa designed National Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum and the Jantar Mantar, an 18th century observatory. Dinner at the hotel is included. Stay at 5 star hotel

Day 3 Delhi to Chandigarh

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Morning tour of Delhi to include a walk in Lutyens’ New Delhi starting at the India Gate. Late lunch in Delhi is included and then we head to the New Delhi Railway Station for our train to Chandigarh. 2030 arrival in Chandigarh and transfer to a city-centre 5-star hotel or nearby luxury farm stay.

Day 4 Chandigarh

Breakfast at the hotel is included Full Day Tour of Chandigarh architecture to include: The Commercial Centre, Home of Pierre Jeanneret, Le Corbusier Architecture Centre, Government Museum and Art Gallery and the buildings of Punjab University. Lunch is included at a lovely outdoor restaurant and so is tea at a newly designed house in the Rose Garden. Stay at a 5 star hotel in the city or nearby luxury farm stay.

Day 5 Chandigarh to the Amaya

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Today is a half day tour of Chandigarh architecture to include The Capitol Complex, a visit into the Secretariat and Nek Chand's Rock Garden. Lunch at the Yacht Club is included. Onward journey by car to the Amaya Resort designed by Studio Mumbai in the Kasauli hills. Evening film night of Une Ville à Chandigarh by Swiss documentary maker Alain Tanner with commentary by John Berger. Dinner at the Amaya resort is included. Stay at Amaya Resort.

Day 6 The Amaya

Breakfast at the Amaya is included. Morning walk of the site. Lunch today is one of the highlights of the trip: a 17- course Himalayan taster menu at the award winning Naar restaurant. Use the afternoon to relax. Dinner at the Amaya resort is included. Stay at Amaya Resort.

Day 7 The Amaya

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Morning to read your book and stare at the mountains. Walk to a delicious picnic lunch by a stream in the Kasauli Hills is included. Dinner at the Amaya resort is included. Stay at the Amaya Resort.

Day 8 Onward travel

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Morning walk of the terraced farm to look at the farm to table eating concept of the resort. Depart Amaya Resort at 1230 for Chandigarh with a packed lunch.

Photograph by Richard Lewisohn

No Resort Required?

We run another lower-cost tour focused entirely on Delhi and Chandigarh, staying in buildings that are part of the story. If that is more your bag, click on the button below.

Why Chandigarh?

“Let this be a new town, symbolic of the freedom of India, unfettered by the traditions of the past, an expression of the nation’s faith in the future.”

Most architects and design buffs harbour the dream to get to Chandigarh but it does not naturally fall into a standard Indian holiday itinerary – you have to head in the opposite direction from the normal attractions such as Rajasthan, Varanasi or Goa. However it is only a few hours by a regular and decent train from Delhi. You can leave Chandigarh by plane and head off to nearly every part of India on a direct flight.

It is one of very few cities in the world that carries the vision of a single architect. Le Corbusier was not the original choice. That was the American architect Albert Mayer along with his colleague Matthew Nowicki, who had been stationed in India during the second world war and had met Jawaharlal Nehru in 1945. Not long after they had devised the master plan, Nowicki died in a plane crash and Mayer left the project.

With the advice of Jane Drew and Maxwell Fry, two English modernists, Le Corbusier was drafted in as the lead, with his cousin Pierre Jeanneret, and these four architects formed the main team. Concrete was also seen as an easy and inexpensive material to work with in India so it was a good match.

The Le Corbusier buildings in the city became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 (along with a large number of Le Corbusier buildings across the world) and it’s worth noting that it is ranked as the happiest city in India. Whether you view the architecture of Chandigarh through the prism of decolonisation, as an embodiment of modernism or a design that ran roughshod over centuries of Indian tradition, it is an extraordinary achievement and an essential visit for anybody with even a passing interest in the history of architecture and design.

Amaya Resort & NAAR Restaurant

Well, you could not get further away from Chandigarh in spirit if you tried: the Amaya resort designed by Studio Mumbai in 20 acres of terraced forest. The resort has been designed in 20 acres of forest and everything has been created by hand without a drop of cement “rooted in local culture but radically contemporary”.

Bijoy Jain, the man behind Studio Mumbai and currently one of India’s most sought after architects, looked at the villages around Kasauli, studying the materials and techniques employed to make its oldest structures. The idea, he says, was to “take a mountain typology that has existed for time immemorial and bring it up to speed. It’s not a nostalgic representation of the past, but a way of distilling it to fit into the now.”

Viewport Studio from London (my old company) was recruited to work on furniture selection, bespoke furniture design and interior layouts.

Add to this mix, Amaya’s food concept of sustainability in consumption: as much as possible is grown on the terraces in which the resort is built. In their own words: “Amaya Lab’s stem to seed philosophy aligns with the broader movement towards sustainability and mindful consumption. By utilising every part of the ingredient, we reduce our environmental footprint and foster a deeper connection to the food we eat.” And by the way it is insanely delicious.

But there is more, the Naar restaurant at the entrance to the Amaya, is rated as one of the best in Asia. Lead by head chef Prateek Sadhu, our tasting menu meal at the restaurant has been voted in the top ten worldwide of culinary experiences, so loosen your belt buckle.

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Gallery

Photography by Michael Franke & Richard Lewisohn

Reviews

Michael Franke, Photographer

“I came in already knowing quite a bit, but I wanted to see it with my own eyes and take photographs for myself, and it completely exceeded my expectations. The access was extraordinary, especially to the Capitol Complex in Chandigarh. You feel a million miles away from the usual tourist experience.”

Ceri Robson, Head of Technology at Vitsœ

“It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. Even compared to brutalist or concrete architecture in the UK, there’s nothing on this scale. I’d definitely recommend the trip to anyone, even those with just a passing interest in Le Corbusier or Pierre Jeanneret. They should absolutely come on this tour.”

Tessa Clist, Pilates Instructor

“The tour far exceeded my expectations. It covered such a wide range of architecture, from the Mughals through to modernism and the present day, while drawing thoughtful links between them. It’s been eye-opening, I would 100% recommend this to anyone. It’s a brilliant way to access the country.”

Daniel Nelson, Marketing Consultant

“The access we had was far better than anything I could have organised myself. I’ve always been apprehensive about travelling to India, but no longer. People have been incredibly friendly, and the food has been out of this world. If you have an interest in architecture and food, this tour is exactly what you want to be doing.”

Solo Traveller?

If you are travelling alone, that’s great and you are going to be made to feel very welcome. I am afraid we do not offer shared rooms on this trip because I cannot offer twin beds in the chosen accommodation so you will need to choose the single supplement option which I have kept to the minimum.

Dates & Prices

Select your preferred departure date, room occupancy and payment option below.

Date	Double occupancy	Single occupancy
2026 — Monday 30 November to Monday 07 December	Per couple £6,600 / deposit £2,000 Pay deposit Pay in full	Per person £3,900 / deposit £1,800 Pay deposit Pay in full
2027 — Sunday 14 February to Sunday 21 February	Per couple £6,600 / deposit £2,000 Pay deposit Pay in full	Per person £3,900 / deposit £1,800 Pay deposit Pay in full
2027 — Sunday 20 March to Sunday 27 March	Per couple £6,600 / deposit £2,000 Pay deposit Pay in full	Per person £3,900 / deposit £1,800 Pay deposit Pay in full

Prefer to travel with just your people on your dates?

Architourian curates private architectural tours for small groups. Have a group of friends or colleagues who would like a similar experience? Every element can be shaped around your needs.

Turn any of our published itineraries into a private trip on any date you want.

Included & Excluded

What's Included

Not Included

Your bed for the night

Architourian has spent some time and effort in trying to find the best accommodation in each location and obviously the Amaya is quite a special place to stay, and that is a guaranteed part of your trip. Otherwise here are some examples of where else you might stay. Rest assured, wherever we stay you’ll be in excellent hands.

Travel Tips for India

Do I need a visa for India?

Yes, you will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) and you will receive a 30 day visa on arrival in India. The application process is online and requires a digital passport photo. However you can only apply for this ETA within a month of your arrival date in India as it is only vaild for 30 days. It is usually issued very quickly – within hours. Once approved, print the visa PDF with your photo and barcode. Ensure you carry a physical copy alongside your flight tickets, as these are required at immigration. The e-Visa expires one month after arrival. ⚠ Important: If your occupation is listed as “Writer” or “Journalist” on your visa application, your application may be denied. India requires journalists to apply for a Journalist Visa, which can take 1–2 weeks to process. To avoid delays, either do not list your occupation as Writer/Journalist or apply for the correct visa well in advance.

Do I need any vaccinations or medications?

No mandatory vaccinations are required, but we recommend consulting a travel health specialist.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, we require all participants to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal belongings.

Will I need a power adaptor?

Yes, India uses Type D and M plugs (230V, 50Hz). A universal power adaptor is recommended.

Which airport should I fly into?

For our Delhi-Chandigarh-Himalayas itinerary, Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi) is the recommended entry point.

What should I expect at immigration?

Use the e-Visa queue at immigration and ensure you have printed copies of your visa and flight details. When filling out your landing card, use your first hotel’s address as your local residence.

How do I get local currency?

The Indian Rupee is a closed currency and you cannot therefore buy any before you arrive in India. ATMs are available at the airport and throughout India. A recommended amount to withdraw on arrival is ₹10,000 (approximately £100 / $120), depending on your personal spending habits.

What kind of hotels do you use?

We select 5 star hotels and occasionally well-appointed guesthouses that offer a balance of comfort, cultural immersion, and architectural interest. Details will be provided in your itinerary. The Amaya resort for the final three nights is one of the highlights of this trip.

Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes, all hotels provide Wi-Fi. Some transport options may offer mobile Wi-Fi – check with your guide.

Are suitcases or backpacks better?

Suitcases are perfectly fine as transportation is arranged throughout. However, you may need to carry your luggage up stairs in train stations. You will need to be able to carry or pull your luggage in a crowded space with uneven floors so it’s best to pack lightly.

Will I have access to fitness facilities?

Some hotels offer gyms. If this is important to you, let us know in advance, and we will advise accordingly.

What clothing should I bring?

Cities (Delhi & Chandigarh): Lightweight, breathable clothing. Himalayas: Warm layers for cool evenings and mornings. Temples & religious sites: Modest attire; women should carry a scarf or shawl. Walking: Comfortable shoes that are easy to remove when required.

Can I bring swimwear?

Yes, some accommodations have pools. Towels are provided in all the hotels we visit.

What kind of food will be provided?

Meals will showcase regional specialities, from Delhi’s street-food to Himachali dishes in the mountains. We prioritise high-quality, authentic dining experiences.

Are vegetarian and vegan options available?

Absolutely. India is highly vegetarian-friendly, and vegan options are widely available.

Can I drink tap water?

No. Only drink bottled, filtered, or boiled water. This includes brushing your teeth. We recommend carrying a reusable bottle. The hotels provide free filtered water in glass bottles in your room.

Should I take probiotics?

It can be beneficial to start taking probiotics before your trip and continue during your travels to help your digestion adjust.

Is alcohol available?

Beer and wine are generally available, though selection may be limited in certain regions.

What currency is used in India?

The Indian Rupee (INR). Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in hotels and higher-end restaurants.

How much should I budget for personal expenses?

Expect to spend approximately ₹2,000–₹3,000 per day on personal items, souvenirs, and optional activities.

Should I tip?

Tipping is a standard part of life in India and is expected. Guidelines: Local guides: ₹500–₹1,000 per day Drivers: ₹300–₹500 per day Hotel staff: ₹100–₹300 per service

Is India safe for travellers?

Yes, but as with any destination, awareness is key. We ensure safe transport, well-located accommodations, and expert guidance throughout.

What happens if I fall ill during the tour?

If you become unwell, the tour will continue as planned, and you will need to arrange for a place to recover. We will assist you in finding appropriate medical care and comfortable accommodation, but no refunds will be provided for missed portions of the trip. Your travel insurance should cover any medical expenses, and you can rejoin the tour when you feel well enough to continue.

What should I do in case of a medical emergency?

We have emergency protocols in place. Local hospitals and clinics are identified for each location, and your travel insurance should cover any necessary care.

Is high altitude an issue in the Himalayas?

Most of our Himalayan destinations are at moderate altitudes. If you have concerns, consult a doctor before travelling.

Will my mobile phone work in India?

Check with your provider about international roaming. Local SIM cards are available if needed.

Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes, at all hotels. Some transport may also have mobile Wi-Fi.

What level of fitness is required?

Participants should be comfortable with extended walking and occasional uneven terrain, especially in the Himalayas. You will need to be on your feet for much of the day and that includes walking up and down stairs. Not all of the buildings or pavements are in perfect condition so please always keep your eyes peeled for trip hazards as you walk.

Can I extend my trip?

Yes, we can provide recommendations or arrange extensions tailored to your interests.

What happens if I need to leave the tour early?

We will assist with alternative travel arrangements if required, but no refunds will be issued for early departures.

How does Architourian promote responsible tourism?

We prioritise small group travel, support local businesses, and engage guides with deep cultural knowledge.

What can I do to travel sustainably?

Carry reusable water bottles and bags. Respect cultural sites by following local guidelines. Choose ethical souvenirs, avoiding items made from endangered materials.

Can I take photos everywhere?

While photography is welcomed at most sites, some religious, political and military locations have restrictions. If we are able to access the Assembly Building in Chandigarh, photography is strictly forbidden for security reasons and you will be asked to leave all your cameras and phones at the reception desk inside the building entrance. Always ask before photographing people.

Are drones allowed?

Drone use is heavily restricted in India. it is not possible to bring one with you without a special permit.

How do I secure my place on a tour?

A deposit is required at the time of booking, with full payment due a full ten weeks before departure. If you book within the ten week period, full payment is required with the booking.

What is the cancellation policy?

If you cancel more than ten weeks before the start of the trip, you will lose your deposit. If you cancel between ten weeks and four weeks before the start of the trip, on the assumption that you settled the balance of the trip, you will be refunded 50% of the total trip cost. If you cancel less than four weeks before the start of the trip, there is no refund.

Who do I contact in an emergency?

You will receive a detailed emergency contact list, including your tour leader’s phone number and local support contacts.

How can I ask further questions before departure?

Our team is available via email and phone for any pre-departure enquiries.

What if I do not want to travel in a group?

Then you don’t have to. Contact me with your requirements, whether it is you, or you and a partner, or you and a group of friends, I can plan your private tour.