India Explorer

Welcome to New Delhi! Upon arrival at the International Airport, you will be met by your private driver and will be driven  to the accomodation of your choice. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. If you're interested in exploration, consider a visit to Lodi Gardens. Immerse yourself in Delhi's lush greenery and discover the intricacies of Mughal tombs (Vehicle and guide available for an additional fee).  

Explore the captivating city of New Delhi, the ancient capital of India situated along the banks of the Yamuna River. Your journey commences with a visit to the Jama Masjid, an expansive mosque crafted from red sandstone and marble by over 5000 artisans. Venture into the bustling Chandni Chowk, Asia's largest wholesale market, teeming with shops and bazaars. Drive by the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort, a 17th-century marvel constructed by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Pay homage at Raj Ghat, a simple memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Next, be escorted to the magnificent Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Delhi’s largest Sikh temple. Witness the community kitchen's selfless service (langar) that provides food for thousands. Transition to New Delhi, a testament to British legacy. Begin with the UNESCO-listed Qutub Minar, India's second tallest minaret adorned with intricate carvings and Qur'anic verses. Explore the 16th-century Indo-Persian masterpiece, Humayun’s Tomb, a precursor to the Taj Mahal. The Imperial Delhi tour encompasses a drive past India Gate, a 42m high War Memorial Arch, Parliament House, Secretariat buildings, and the Vice Regal Palace—now the official residence of the President of India. (B)

Embark on a journey to the "Pink City - Jaipur," a scenic 4 hours and 30 minutes away. In the evening, delve into the Bazaar, Cuisine & Crafts of Old Jaipur with your guide. Wander through the vibrant local markets, renowned as a shopper’s haven, immersing yourself in the authentic atmosphere. Explore stalls showcasing hand-crafted bangles and other exquisite items to take home. During this captivating evening stroll, engage with locals and savor the region's culinary treasures—indulge in pakoras, aloo tiki, samosas, and sweets from popular street food vendors.Witness local artisans at work in their workshops, from jewelers and silversmiths to gold and silver foil makers. The iconic Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds, serves as the starting point for this two-and-a-half-hour walk, where you'll absorb the rich cultural tapestry of Jaipur. (B)

Embark on a journey just outside Jaipur to the ancient capital of Amber, where the magnificent Amber Fort awaits. En route, pause for a photo opportunity at the renowned 'Palace of Winds,' also known as Hawa Mahal. Subsequently, explore the City Palace, an awe-inspiring complex featuring palaces, gardens, decorative art, and intricately carved doorways. The palace museum showcases rare manuscripts, armor, costumes, carpets, and miniature paintings.Take a stroll to the nearby Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century Astronomical Observatory crafted by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. This marvel, one of five astronomical wonders built by Singh, continues to make accurate predictions to this day. As evening falls, pay a visit to the Laxmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to the Goddess of Wealth, adorned with exquisite marble carvings. (B)

 Today, embark on a journey to Agra, covering a distance in approximately 5.5 hours. En route, explore the 'abandoned city' of Fatehpur Sikri, once the majestic capital of the Mughal Empire during the reign of Akbar the Great. Discover the mausoleum of a Sufi Saint, who was a teacher to Emperor Akbar. This historical city now holds the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Upon reaching Agra, transfer to your hotel. In the evening, witness the enchanting sunset at the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). The iconic monument reveals its diverse beauty, adorned in pink hues in the morning, transitioning to milky white in the evening, and casting a golden glow under the moonlight. Sunset offers a particularly captivating time to admire the splendor of this architectural masterpiece. (B)

At the break of dawn this morning, you will embark on a journey to witness one of the Wonders of the World, the renowned 'tear on the face of eternity' – the Taj Mahal. This architectural marvel was erected by the heartbroken Emperor Shah Jahan in loving memory of his cherished wife Mumtaz Mahal. Following this poignant experience, your day unfolds with a visit to Agra Fort, the historic residence of the Great Mughals – Babur, Humayun, Akbar, Jehangir, and Aurangzeb – who once governed the nation from this grand fortress.The afternoon invites you to unwind at your leisure, allowing you to savor the rich history and cultural heritage that surrounds you (B)

Embark on a distinctive journey today! Board a train from Agra to Jhansi (Tickets available on request). Upon arrival in Jhansi, you'll be transported to Khajuraho, a captivating 4-5 hours' drive. Along the way, make a stop to explore the Orchha Temples, including the intriguing Ram Raja Temple with a fascinating history. The idols, initially intended for the magnificent Chaturbhuj Temple, found a sacred spot on the ground where this temple now stands. Unable to be moved, the location was deemed holy, leading to the construction of the serene Ram Raja Temple with its marble courtyard and vibrant walls. Continue your scenic drive to Khajuraho and check in at the hotel. (B) 

Today explore Khajuraho's rich heritage with a morning visit to the Eastern Group of Temples, including Jain and Hindu temples like Parsvanath, Adinath, Ghantai, The Brahma, Vamana, and Hanuman Temples. Continue to the Western Group of Temples, a beautiful complex featuring Devi Manda, Varaha Mandap, Lakshman Temple, Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Mahadev Shrine, and Devi Jagdambi Temple, surrounded by a protective boundary wall. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure in Khajuraho. (B) 

Today, you will embark on a journey to Varanasi, a drive that is expected to take approximately 7 to 8 hours. Upon reaching your destination, you will proceed to check in at the hotel. (B)

Embark on an early morning boat ride on the Ganges to witness a mesmerizing sunrise and observe Hindu rituals along the Ghats. Return to the hotel for breakfast and relax in the morning.In the afternoon, start the Varanasi tour, visiting landmarks like Bharat Mata Temple, Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, and New Viswanath Temple. Explore Benares Hindu University, the museum, and Aurangzeb's mosque.In the evening, experience the powerful Aarti ceremony on the riverbanks. Devout Hindus perform the "Aarti Puja" with Sanskrit mantras, lamps, and offerings, creating a spiritual ambiance resonating with the essence of Varanasi. (B)

Today, check out and embark on a visit to Sarnath (closed on Fridays), one of India's four crucial Buddhist pilgrimage centers. This site holds immense significance as it is where Buddha, the 'Awakened One,' delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodhgaya. After exploring Sarnath, you will be transferred to Varanasi airport for your return to Delhi (Flights available on request). (B)Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be in transit at the international airport to connect to your onward journey.