Experience the ultimate journey through India’s royal past and spiritual present on this comprehensive 12-day tour. This curated itinerary expands the classic Golden Triangle—Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—to include the hidden gems of Central India and the holy city of Varanasi. You will witness the architectural brilliance of the Mughals, the intricate erotic carvings of the Chandela dynasty in Khajuraho, and the timeless rituals on the banks of the Ganges. From the bustling bazaars of Old Delhi to the serene sunrise at the Taj Mahal and the medieval charm of Orchha, every moment captures the vibrant essence of Indian heritage.
Top Highlights & Experiences
Upon your arrival at Delhi International Airport, our representative greets you with a personalized placard and transfers you to your hotel. Use the remainder of the day to relax or explore the local surroundings at your own pace. You stay overnight at the hotel in Delhi.
Start your morning with a deep dive into the heart of Old Delhi. You visit Jama Masjid, navigate the vibrant lanes of Chandni Chowk on a rickshaw, and see the formidable Red Fort. In the afternoon, you explore Humayun’s Tomb, the Qutub Minar, and the serene Lotus Temple. You stay overnight at the hotel in Delhi.
After breakfast, you travel to the “Pink City” of Jaipur. After checking into your hotel, you have the afternoon free for world-class shopping in markets famous for handicrafts and jewelry. In the evening, you may choose an optional excursion to Chokhi Dhani for a traditional dinner. You stay overnight at the hotel in Jaipur.
Spend the day exploring the royal heritage of the Rajputs. You visit the hilltop Amber Fort, followed by photo stops at the Jal Mahal and the iconic Hawa Mahal. In the afternoon, you tour the City Palace Museum and the Jantar Mantarobservatory. You stay overnight at the hotel in Jaipur.
En route to Agra, you visit the stunning Chand Baori stepwell in Abhaneri and the deserted Mughal capital of Fatehpur Sikri. You arrive in Agra by evening and check into your hotel. Use the evening to rest or explore the local marble markets. You stay overnight at the hotel in Agra.
Experience the Taj Mahal at its most beautiful during sunrise. After breakfast, you explore the Agra Fort and the delicate Baby Taj. In the afternoon, you drive to Gwalior. Enjoy your evening at the Sarafa Bazaar, a paradise for foodies and shoppers. You stay overnight at the hotel in Gwalior.
Explore the massive Gwalior Fort, the intricate Saas Bahu Temple, and the Jai Vilas Palace. Later, you travel to the medieval town of Orchha. You can end your day with an optional Light and Sound show at the Orchha Fort. You stay overnight at the hotel in Orchha.
Discover the island fortress of Orchha, home to the Jahangir Mahal and Raj Mahal. The town feels like a living museum with its riverside cenotaphs and temples. By late afternoon, you drive to Khajuraho, the city of world-renowned UNESCO-listed temples. You stay overnight at the hotel in Khajuraho.
Devote your day to the Eastern, Western, and Southern Groups of Temples. These 10th-century structures feature some of the most sophisticated sculptures and erotic art in the world. In the evening, enjoy the Light and Sound show at the Western Group of temples. You stay overnight at the hotel in Khajuraho.
Visit the breathtaking Raneh Waterfalls, where the Ken River carves a deep canyon through multi-colored rocks. In the afternoon, you board a short flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival, you transfer to your hotel and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. You stay overnight at the hotel in Varanasi.
Today, you visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, and the Banaras Hindu University. As the sun sets, you head to the Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the Grand Ganga Aarti, a soul-stirring fire ritual on the banks of the sacred river. You stay overnight at the hotel in Varanasi.
Begin your final day with a peaceful sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to observe the morning rituals. After breakfast, you visit Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Finally, we transfer you to the airport for your flight to Delhi to connect to your onward journey.
