Stare down the long reflecting pool of the Taj Mahal, one of the great wonders of the world, on this escorted India vacation for $1499 per person, including taxes. This saves $675 per person on do-it-yourself pricing.

Along the way, ride an elephant to a 16th century fort, peruse Jaipur's lively street market and marvel at one of the tallest gateways in the world, the 15-story Buland Darwaza.

This deal from Virgin Vacations includes:

• Roundtrip airfare from the U.S. to Delhi
• Five nights in multiple 4-star hotels
• English-speaking tour guide throughout
• Eight meals: Five breakfasts, three dinners

Guests spend one night in ancient Delhi; and two nights each in Agra, home of the Taj Mahal; and Jaipur, an entire city covered in pink paint.

This deal is priced for New York departures; all major U.S. gateways are available. See Virgin Vacations' site for details.

Depart: April 3, 10, 17, 24; +$100 Jan. 16; Feb. 13, 20; March 6, 27

Travelzoo Tip: Consider booking the January-March dates, when most of India "experiences pleasant, moderate temperatures," according to Frommer's.

For a longer experience, opt for Virgin Vacations' nine-night "Golden Triangle of India with Nepal" package, which features three nights exploring pagodas, temples and palaces in Kathmandu.