This comprehensive tour takes in some of the most spectacular sights across northern India; from Jaipur to Varanasi. We see some of the world’s greatest architecture in the form of imposing forts, amazing Hindu and Jain temples, gorgeous palaces, and abandoned city and, of course, the stunning Taj Mahal.
Tour Profile
Beginning with Delhi, Jaipur and Agra - the so-called Golden Triangle of India - our tour provides a great introduction to the rich culture and heritage of northern India. This great triumvirate of cities presents a matchless array of sights, famous and not-so-famous, grand and intimate. We see the Taj Mahal in the delicate early morning light, the vivid palaces of Jaipur,
Rajasthan’s “Pink City”, and the equally impressive monuments of Delhi.
The route then swings south to Gwalior, with its magnificent hilltop fort, and Orchha, home to 16th century temples and bejeweled 17th century palaces. In contrast to Jaipur and Agra, Gwalior and Orchha are
somewhat away from the tourist trail, and provide a compelling insight into the ‘real’ India. It is just a short hop to the world famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho where temples with splendid erotic sculptures showcasing pure art, not found anywhere else in the world, beckon us.
Finally, we journey east to the city of Varanasi - the holiest place (and the centre of the Earth in Hindu cosmology) for Hindus. Every Hindu is expected to achieve a pilgrimage to this holy place at least once, and if possible, immerse the ashes of cremated ancestors in the Ganges here. Before returning to Delhi on the overnight train what we experience in the two days we spend in this astounding city is unforgettable and mind boggling. A leisurely final day in the capital completes the tour.
Tour Highlights
- Splendid Taj Mahal in the early morning light.
- Amazing architecture of Khajuraho temples.
- Glorious sunrise over Ganges during morning boat ride.
- Fabulous Amer Fort - a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture.
- Abandoned Fatehpur Sikri, a unique testimony to the Mughal civilisation.
- Atmospheric forts, palaces and temples at Orchha and Gwalior.
Tour Itinerary
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Please note: You can use this itinerary as a guide to fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places visited, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have.
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DAY 01 - Delhi
Arrive at the international airport of Delhi. After traditional welcome transfer to the hotel for check-in. Rest of the day is free to relax or explore the city Overnight Hotel
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DAY 02 - Delhi
In the local sightseeing programme today visit old Delhi, including Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk. Later, drive to India Gate and see colonial buildings, mostly occupied by the Government now, in New Delhi. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 03 - Jaipur
After breakfast drive from Delhi to Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’ and capital of Rajasthan, and check into hotel. Afternoon is free to explore the city. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 04 - Jaipur
In the full-day sightseeing programme of Jaipur visit City Palace, Jantar Mantar (the 18th century observatory), the majestic Amer Fort and Hawa Mahal (the Palace of Winds). Evening is free to relax or explore the local market. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 05 - Agra
After breakfast today drive to Agra. En route visit Fatehpur Sikri, the palace that was built by Mohd. Akbar, the 3rd Mughal King and abandoned just after a few years only. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 06 - Gwalior
Today leave the hotel very early in the morning and visit Taj Mahal at sunrise and return to hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, check out and visit Agra Fort. Later drive to Gwalior, a historical town in Madhya Pradesh. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 07 - Orchha
After breakfast drive leisurely to Gwalior Fort to see its colossal size and architectural grandeur. Later transfer to Orchha, a small historical town famous for royal cenotaphs and the Jahangiri Palace. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 08 - Khajuraho
After breakfast leave for sightseeing in Orchha to see the palace, cenotaphs and the temples. Later drive to Khajuraho, a place famous for Hindu and Jain temples for their architectural grandeur. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 09 - Varanasi.
This morning in the local sightseeing programme visit the Khajuraho temple complex. Later transfer to airport for flight to Varanasi. Check into hotel and enjoy a free evening. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 10 - Varanasi
Today’s sightseeing programme starts with an early morning boat ride on the Ganges to watch Hindu rituals being performed on its Ghats. In the afternoon visit Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. In the evening watch puja ceremony on the main Ghat at Varanasi. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 11 - Varanasi
Today is a free day in Varanasi to explore this vibrant and mystical city further before being transferred to the railway station for overnight train journey to Delhi. Overnight Train
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DAY 12 - Delhi
Arrive in Delhi in the morning and transfer to the hotel for check in. Rest of the day is free to explore this metropolis. Overnight Hotel
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DAY 13 - Delhi
The tour concludes. Departure transfer to the international airport to catch flights to respective destinations.
Send an enquiry
Flexibility Guaranteed! Using the above itinerary as a guide you can fully customise this tour as per your budget and requirements. Flexible options include travel dates and duration, places, activities and experiences, hotel category (star/rating) and any specific requirements that you may have. On receiving your enquiry we will respond with prices and work with you to create a truly personalised holiday experience that is in your budget and personal style.
