Day 1: Arrival in Delhi, Leisure Time

Welcome to India! Upon your arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After checking in and receiving a brief overview of your upcoming tours, you can relax and unwind for the rest of the day.

Day 2: Explore Delhi

Following breakfast, your guide will collect you from your hotel for a tour of Old Delhi, starting with Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Experience the vibrant local life with a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk. Afterward, pass by the Red Fort and head to New Delhi to see the Qutub Minar, a towering ancient structure. Visit Gandhi Smriti, where Gandhi spent his final days, then drive past major landmarks like India Gate and the President’s House. Conclude the day with a visit to Laxmi Narayan Temple to learn about local Hindu traditions.

Tip: Female visitors should wear a robe before entering Jama Masjid. Robes are available for rent at the temple.

Day 3: Culinary Delights and Cultural Exploration

After a relaxed breakfast, visit the serene Lotus Temple and then explore Dilli Haat, a vibrant marketplace offering a range of crafts and foods. In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class where you’ll learn about Indian spices and ingredients, followed by preparing and enjoying traditional dishes with your new culinary skills.

Day 4: Travel to Jaipur

Travel to Jaipur, known as the “Pink City,” by private A/C car (approximately 4-5 hours). En route, you can stop for coffee or photos as you wish. Check into your hotel, and later visit a local tailor to experience traditional turban and saree fittings. Custom clothing can be made to your measurements at an additional cost and might take a day or two.

Day 5: Discover Jaipur

After breakfast, visit Amber Fort, including a jeep ride to its entrance and a tour of the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). Continue to Nahargarh Fort for panoramic views of Jaipur. Return to the city to photograph the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) and visit the City Palace Museum and Jantar Mantar, the world’s largest stone observatory. Drive through Jaipur’s pink residential and commercial areas before returning to your hotel.

Tip: Be firm with vendors around Amber Fort if you’re not interested in their goods.

Day 6: Jaipur to Agra

After breakfast, head east to Agra with a stop at Fatehpur Sikri, an abandoned Mughal city known for its impressive architecture. Continue to Agra for check-in and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Day 7: Agra’s Marvels

Visit the Taj Mahal early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience its breathtaking beauty. Next, explore Agra Fort, showcasing Mughal grandeur. In the afternoon, visit a local family for dinner, where you can enjoy a home-cooked Indian meal and hear stories about Indian life.

Tip: Security at the Taj Mahal is strict; avoid bringing prohibited items like food and plastic bags.

Day 8: Agra to Khajuraho

After breakfast, take an express train to Jhansi. From there, explore the ancient town of Orchha, known for its historical palaces and temples. Continue your journey by car to Khajuraho, famous for its intricate temple sculptures listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 9: Khajuraho Temples and Flight to Varanasi

Explore the renowned Khajuraho Temple Complex, known for its exquisite sculptures. In the afternoon, fly to Varanasi. After arriving and settling into your hotel, enjoy some free time.

Day 10: Varanasi Highlights

Experience the sunrise on the River Ganges, witnessing the morning rituals performed by pilgrims. Walk through the historic lanes of Bengali Tola, and later participate in an authentic Yoga class. In the evening, attend the Aarti Ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghats, a spectacular spiritual event involving rituals performed with bells, drums, and mantras.

Day 11: Departure from Varanasi to Delhi

Visit Sarnath, the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and the nearby museum showcasing Buddhist art. Next, see a community-run silk weaving workshop where traditional techniques are employed. Fly back to Delhi and transfer to the city center for last-minute shopping before heading to the international airport for your departure flight.

Note: No overnight stay in Delhi.