Heritage Discovery provides an extended introduction to India's Northern traditions. It combines our popular Golden Experience package with additional stops in Varanasi and Khajuraho. Visit the Golden Triangle: Delhi, the vibrant capital; Agra, the home of the majestic Taj Mahal; and Jaipur, the Pink City of Rajasthan. Together, they create the geographical pattern of the three most visited cities in India. Also, visit Varanasi, a sacred city on the holy Ganges River, and Khajuraho, an ancient dynasty housing Tantric sculptures.
- A sunset visit to the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra
- An elephant ride to Amber Fort in Jaipur
- Ancient sculptures of the Chandela Dynasty in Khajuraho
- Sunrise boat excursion on the Ganges River in Varanasi
- Visit to Sarnath, where Buddha preached his first sermon
Itinerary Details: 12 days/11 nights
Namaste. Welcome to India! Arrive at Delhi International airport. You will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Delhi is a bustling metropolis that incorporates the ancient with the modern. Amidst the skyscrapers, the monuments stand as a silent reminder to India's legacy. Driving from the airport, you will be impressed with Delhi's spacious, tree-lined streets and garden parks. Overnight at the hotel.
The morning is free for resting after your journey. In the afternoon, visit the sites of Old Delhi: Red Fort, a marvel of red sandstone; Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India; and Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Overnight in Delhi.
After breakfast, proceed on a half-day tour of New Delhi. Drive past India Gate, the President's Palace, and visit the Qutub Minar. In the afternoon, drive to Jaipur (5.5 hours).
Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, owes its name, foundation and planning to the great astronomer and warrior Maharaja Jai Singh II. The city is fondly called the "Pink City" due to the pink colored buildings and avenues. Overnight in Jaipur.
After breakfast, proceed on a full day tour of Jaipur. Start with a visit to Amber Fort. The final descent to this ancient city is made by elephant back—a truly memorable experience! In the fort, you will see magnificent palaces and halls covered with mirrored mosaics. After lunch, explore Jaipur city. Visit City Palace, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture that is still occupied by the Royal family. Also visit the Palace of the Winds and Jantar Mantar, the solar observatory. Overnight in Jaipur.
After breakfast, drive to Agra (5 hours). En-route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted but perfectly preserved sandstone city. On arrival in Agra, check into your hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Agra.
After breakfast embark on a tour of Agra including the Agra Fort, a magnificent citadel with marble palaces, ornate alcoves and terrace pavilions. In the evening, enjoy a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj took over 22 years and 20,000 men to build. The monument is truly a wonder of the world. Overnight in Agra.
Morning at leisure. Later, transfer to the rail station for your train and transfer to Khajuraho. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Khajuraho was once the capital of the Chandela Rajputs, a Hindu dynasty that ruled this region of India from the 10th to 12th centuries. It has the largest group of Jain and Hindu temples housing various erotic sculptures and Tantric poses. Overnight in Khajuraho.
Following breakfast, take a tour of Khajuraho's various temples and explore the magnificent sculptures of this Chandela dynasty. Overnight in Khajuraho.
Day 9: Khajuraho—Varanasi
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Afternoon at leisure to explore the winding streets and spiritual energy of the city.
Varanasi, also known as Benares, is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. According to myth, the city was founded by the Hindi deity Shiva, making it one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the country. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi is one of the seven sacred cities of Hindus. Overnight in Varanasi.
After breakfast, drive to Sarnath where Buddha preached his first sermon. Later, explore Varanasi with its myriad temples and museums. Overnight in Varanasi.
Early morning boat ride along the Ganges River to view the famous bathing ghats. Later transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Delhi .
The day is at leisure for last minute shopping or optional sightseeing. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Bon Voyage!
