Explore the rich tapestry of North India on this unforgettable journey through Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Varanasi. Begin in Delhi, where ancient monuments stand alongside colonial architecture and bustling bazaars. In Agra, marvel at the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal, a symbol of love and Mughal grandeur. Continue to Jaipur, the vibrant Pink City, known for its majestic forts, palaces, and colourful markets. Finally, experience the spiritual heart of India in Varanasi, where sacred rituals unfold on the banks of the Ganges and centuries-old traditions come alive. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, heritage, and spirituality for a truly immersive Indian experience.
On arrival at the Indira Gandhi International airport, proceed for immigration clearance after disembarking. Thereafter collect baggage from the baggage carousel and walk to the arrivals lounge after clearing customs. You will be greeted by our company representative, with a placard bearing your name on it. He will assist you with your luggage, transfer you to the hotel and hand over the travel documents for your India tour. Rest of the day will be at leisure.
After breakfast at the hotel, start the sightseeing by heading to the apparent chaos which is Old Delhi. Take a cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow alleys and vibrant shopping bazaars, savour the aromas of the famous spice market. Each lane specializes in a commodity: Khari Baoli is famous for its spices, Dariba Kalan for is the lane of jewellers and silversmiths while Kinare Bazaar sells a bewildering array of tinsel sequins They are a true local’s form of transport, which still ply the lanes of Old Delhi picking people up and dropping them off, weaving almost impossibly in and out of the people, cows, motor bikes and hand carts. Also visit Jami Masjid, the largest mosque in India.
Note: Most of the shops in Old Delhi market remain closed on Sundays
Afternoon tour of the capital that will highlight wide avenues, grand vistas and colonial mansions. Your excursion includes: Vijay Chowk vantage point for grand sweep of British Raj Era Buildings; Humayun’s Tomb – first Mughal garden tomb and inspiration for several later monuments such as the incomparable Taj Mahal; Gandhi Smriti – museum dedicated to life of Mahatma Gandhi. Also visit the Bangala Sahib Gurudwara, Delhi’s largest Sikh temple and marvel at the kitchens which feed tens of thousands of people every day.
Note: Museums in Delhi are closed on Mondays.
Start your day early with breakfast at the hotel before setting off on a scenic drive to Agra, one of India’s most iconic cities, known for its rich Mughal heritage and timeless monuments.
Later in the day have a guided visit to the impressive Agra Fort. Hand in hand with the Taj Mahal is the Agra Fort, undoubtedly one of the most impressive forts built by the Mughals. Where the Taj Mahal is about love and romance, the fort is about dominance and valour, a show of the might of the Mughals. Courtyard after courtyard built of sandstone and marble, this fort has been a military fortress, palace and prison.
End your day with an evening visit to Mehtab Bagh at sunset, the Mughal Garden opposite the Taj Mahal, from which a wonderful view can be seen.
Begin your day early with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, often hailed as the most beautiful building in the world and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In the soft morning light, the white marble monument glows with a serene charm that’s truly unforgettable. Visiting at dawn not only offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, but also the chance to experience the Taj Mahal at its most magical.
Note: The Taj Mahal is closed to visitors on Fridays.
Return for a relaxing late breakfast before continuing your journey.
After breakfast, drive to Jaipur, famously known as Rajasthan’s Pink City. This vibrant destination is renowned for its grand forts, royal palaces, and colorful local bazaars.
En route, take a short detour to visit the Abhaneri Stepwell (Chand Baori), a hidden gem and one of Rajasthan’s most impressive ancient stepwells. This architectural marvel features thousands of perfectly symmetrical steps and offers a glimpse into the region’s ingenious water management system. It’s a perfect spot for stunning photographs and a memorable stop on your way to Jaipur.
Start your day with a guided tour of Amber Fort, a grand hilltop fortress offering stunning views and rich insights into Maharaja life and Rajput architecture. Don’t miss the photo-worthy backdrops and nearby Jaigarh Fort overlooking the site.
Continue to the City Palace, a beautiful blend of Mughal and Rajasthani design, still partly home to Jaipur’s royal family. Explore its elegant courtyards, temples, and the Krishna Temple, visited daily by devotees. Within the complex, visit Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s best-preserved astronomical observatories.
Stop for an exterior view of the Hawa Mahal, the “Palace of Winds,” with its iconic pink lattice windows designed for royal women to watch street life unseen.
End the day exploring Jaipur’s lively bazaars, packed with textiles, jewellery, spices, and local color , a perfect place to experience the energy and charm of the Pink City.
Arrive at Varanasi Airport and transfer to your hotel.
En route, enjoy a guided tour of Sarnath, the sacred site where Gautam Buddha gave his first sermon. Located just outside Varanasi, Sarnath is home to ancient stupas, monasteries, and temples, many now in ruins but still radiating a serene, spiritual aura.
Note: Sarnath Museum is closed on Fridays.
Begin your day just before dawn with a guided boat ride on the Ganges River. Witness the serene morning rituals at Assi Ghat, as young priests perform sacred prayers, incense burns, and the city awakens in soft light. Glide past ghats where life, death, and devotion blend in this spiritual heart of India.
Return to the hotel for breakfast.
Later, visit the Bharat Mata Temple, known for its relief map of India; the Durga Temple, famed for its ochre-stained walls and resident monkeys; and Banaras Hindu University (BHU), home to one of India’s finest art galleries showcasing works from the 12th to 20th centuries.
In the evening, take a cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow, colorful lanes of Varanasi’s old city, followed by a short walking tour.
Conclude your day at the Ganga Aarti ceremony, where hundreds of devotees gather on the ghats to offer prayers with fire, incense, and floating lamps, creating an unforgettable spiritual atmosphere.
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.
This sample itinerary can be modified according to the client's interests. While all the information in this itinerary is accurate to the best of our knowledge, changes to our trips can and do occur. These changes may be due to our efforts to improve the program or for logistical reasons such as alterations in flight schedules, traffic conditions, weather conditions, or government policies. Dharma Adventures will make every effort to keep you informed of any changes but cannot be held liable for any modifications made to the published itinerary.
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