1. TimlessHeritage
  2. India
  3. Classical and Royal North India
Classical and Royal North India

Tour Info

Duration

12 days

Tour Type

Heritage and Culture

Best time to travel

Oct – June

Destinations

Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Orchha, Agra, & Jaipur
Overview

Experience the captivating journey through India’s rich cultural and royal heritage with this tour that covers the iconic cities of Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Agra, and Jaipur. Each destination offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and architectural marvels, promising an unforgettable experience. This tour promises to make your journey an unforgettable experience, filled with cultural richness, historical grandeur, and breathtaking beauty.

 

Highlights

Walk around the Old Delhi Bazaar: Take a stroll through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, where you can savor Delhi’s famous street food and shop for traditional crafts1.

Ganga Aarti in Varanasi: Witness the mesmerizing evening prayer ceremony on the ghats of the Ganges River.

Boat Ride on the Ganges at Varanasi: Experience a serene boat ride at sunrise, offering a unique perspective of the oldest city in India.

Sarnath: Explore the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon.

Khajuraho: Enjoy an evening Sound and Light show at the Western Group of temples that narrates the history of Khajuraho.

Taj Mahal at Sunrise: Witness the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise. The soft morning light enhances the white marble’s glow, creating a magical atmosphere.

Jaipur: Ascend to the majestic Amber Fort on and Elephant back for a royal experience.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Delhi

Upon your arrival at the International Airport in Delhi, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will escort you to your hotel. After checking in, take some time to relax and unwind. Delhi, the capital city, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends the ancient with the modern. It serves as a perfect introduction to India’s rich cultural tapestry, offering a glimpse into the country’s diverse heritage and contemporary lifestyle. Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 02: Sightseeing Tour of Delhi

After a hearty breakfast, proceed for a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi. This day ensures a rich and immersive experience, showcasing the historical and cultural grandeur of both Old and New Delhi. Your journey begins with a visit to Raj Ghat, a simple yet poignant memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Next, explore the Red Fort, a magnificent structure overlooking the Yamuna River, built between 1638 and 1648 during the zenith of the Mughal Empire. Experience the bustling atmosphere of Old Delhi with a bicycle rickshaw ride to Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. The constant flow of people and the nearby bazaar ensure that this area is always lively and vibrant. Continue to Gandhi Samadhi, where the great leader is honored and remembered. In the afternoon, drive to New Delhi, a city that reflects the British colonial legacy. The contrast between Old and New Delhi is striking, with the former embodying traditional lifestyles and the latter striving to meet 21st-century standards. Your tour of Imperial Delhi includes visits to the Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower in India, and Humayun’s Tomb, a monument that is said to have inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. Don’t miss the Lotus Temple, a stunning example of modern architecture belonging to the Bahá’í faith. The tour also features a drive past the imposing India Gate, the Parliament Building, and the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President’s residence. Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 03: Fly to Varanasi, Visit to Sarnath and evening Aarti at the ganges

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before proceeding to the airport for your flight to Varanasi. Nestled on the crescent-shaped left bank of the sacred River Ganges, Varanasi is one of India’s oldest seats of learning. The city derives its name from the confluence of two rivers, the Varuna and the Assi, which flow to the north and south of the city, respectively. Varanasi promises every visitor a breathtaking and spiritually enriching experience. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax. After lunch, embark on a day excursion to Sarnath, located just 5 miles from Varanasi. Sarnath is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world, where Buddha delivered his first sermon in 590 BC, revealing the Eightfold Path to enlightenment and nirvana. Explore the ruins of an ancient Buddhist monastery and visit the museum, which houses an impressive collection of Buddhist art and sculptures. In the evening, experience the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony at the Ghats. Your guide will provide insightful commentary on the proceedings and the significance of the chants during this spiritual ritual by the river. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 04: Culture tour of the ancient Benaras:

Begin your day early with a drive to Dasaswamedh Ghat for a boat ride on the sacred River Ganges. Witness the cremation ghats and the living traditions of one of the world’s oldest and most significant religions. To fully appreciate this remarkable city, you will be transferred to the riverbanks before sunrise. Board a boat with your guide and proceed to the middle of the river, where the sight of thousands of devotees bathing and praying at sunrise, with temples and palaces rising in the background, unfolds before you. After the boat ride, take a walk through the cobblestone streets along the banks of the Ganges. Walkin through the lanes of Varanasu and visit the most sacred shrine in Varanasi, The Vishwanath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This walk ensures a rich and immersive experience, highlighting the spiritual and cultural essence of Varanasi. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Later, proceed for a guided tour of Varanasi. Bharat Mata Temple: Featuring a large relief map of Mother India engraved in marble. Durga Temple: Known as the Monkey Temple due to its large population of monkeys, this 18th-century temple is dedicated to the goddess Durga. Tulsi Manas Temple: Crafted from white marble, this temple has the entire Ramayana inscribed on its walls. Banaras Hindu University (BHU): The largest residential university in Asia, BHU’s campus includes an art gallery and the mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. In the evening, you are free to explore the vibrant lanes of Varanasi at your leisure. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 05: Fly to Khajuraho

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before taking an afternoon flight to Khajuraho. Located in the northernmost part of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is renowned for its enchanting temples and the legendary Khajuraho Dance Festival. The name “Khajuraho” is derived from the Khajur tree (date palm), which grows abundantly in the region. The Khajuraho Temples are a celebration of womanhood, depicting her myriad moods and facets through exquisite carvings. These temples are famous for their erotic architecture, showcasing women in various activities such as writing letters, applying makeup, combing their hair, dancing, and playing with children. The intricate sculptures capture the innocent, charming, seductive, and ardent beauty of women, leading the eyes from ground level upward, as if gazing towards heaven. In the evening, enjoy the captivating Sound & Light Show at the Western Group of Temples. This show brings the history and legends of Khajuraho to life against the backdrop of illuminated temples. Overnight stay in Khajuraho.

Day 06: Drive to Jhansi with a Visit to Orchha, and Train Journey to Agra

After breakfast an early breakfast, check out and proceed visit the Eastern set of Khajuraho Temples. Later, drive to Jhansi, with a stop at Orchha en route. Orchha is known for its stunning palaces and temples, which reflect the grandeur of the Bundela dynasty. Upon reaching Jhansi, board a deluxe train to Agra, arriving by evening. On arrival, we will meet you at the train station and take you to your hotel. Check in & relax. Agra: Once a small village, Agra was transformed into a grand capital by Mughal emperors Akbar and Shah Jahan, earning the name Dar-ul-Khilafat (seat of the Emperor). Today, Agra is a city of contrasts, with red sandstone and white marble edifices, narrow alleys, and quaint buggies. The city retains the irresistible charm of its Mughal heritage. A walk through Agra’s bustling streets introduces visitors to the enticing aroma of Mughlai cuisine. Overnight stay in Agra.

Day 07: Visit to the Magnificent Taj MahalDay 07: Visit to the Magnificent Taj Mahal

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit to the Taj Mahal (Sunrise visit can be planned depending on the weather): This iconic architectural marvel, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, is renowned for its stunning design, perfect symmetry, and intricate inlay work. The Taj Mahal, completed over 22 years by Persian architect Ustad Isa, features elegant domes and intricately carved screens. Visit to Agra Fort: Constructed by Emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, this red sandstone fort is surrounded by a formal garden known as chahar-bagh. Highlights include the Pearl Mosque and the fort’s imposing gates and walls. The fort, located on the bend of the Yamuna River, served as Akbar’s citadel and showcases the finest Mughal architecture. Afternoon: Visit to Itmad-Ud-Daulah (Baby Taj): Built by Empress Nur Jahan for her father in 1628, this exquisite tomb is noted for its intricate marble inlay work and tranquil garden setting by the Yamuna River. Itmad-Ud-Daulah, a significant figure in the Mughal court, was honored with this beautiful mausoleum, which is considered to have interiors even more impressive than the Taj Mahal. Evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Agra.

Day 08: Drive to Jaipur enroute visiting Fatehpur Sikri

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Jaipur. Enroute, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted red sandstone city built by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. This well-preserved site offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Akbar’s court life. Key attractions include the Buland Darwaza, the largest gateway in the world. Upon arrival in Jaipur, we transfer to the hotel. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is known for its resplendent palaces, mighty fortresses, and rich cultural heritage. The city, founded by the Kshatriya warrior caste, boasts a unique blend of historical significance and architectural beauty. Evening, Visit to Birla Temple to explore this beautiful temple to gain insights into the religious life of Jaipur. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 09: Visiting the Historical and architectural wonders of Jaipur

Proceed for a morning excursion to Amber Fort after breakfast. Elephant ride ascent to the fort.

AMBER FORT PALACE – Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression. At the foot of the hill you will mount your caparisoned elephant for the slow but steady climb up to the main gate, making your entrance in the time honoured fashion. The Fort, completed in the early 18th century, took over 100 years to build and now, although deserted, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Moghul ruling families.

Continue sightseeing.

CITY PALACE – A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.

JANTAR MANTAR – This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use.

HAWA MAHAL – The ornamental facade of this “Palace of Winds” is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. It is a five-storey structure of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women.

Return to the hotel and relax or explore the markets of Jaipur.

Later in the evening: visit “Chowki Dhani” a theme village for a cultural evening enjoying Rajasthani Folk Dances and Music, Puppet show and Camel Ride.

Overnight will be at Jaipur.

Day 10: Jaipur – Sanganer Visit & Jhalana Leopard Safari

After breakfast, visit the villages to witness traditional crafts at Sanganer or Bagru: Tie and Dye (Bandhani): Observe the intricate process of creating patterns by tying fabric tightly with thread before dyeing. The vibrant colors and patterns, such as Leheriya and Shikari, are a visual treat. Block Printing: See artisans at work using wooden blocks to create beautiful prints on fabric. Handmade Paper: Learn about the art of making paper by hand. Return back to Jaipur and enjoy lunch. Later proceed for your safari at Jhalana safari park. Jhalana Safari Park: In the afternoon, embark on a jeep safari at Jhalana Safari Park, renowned for its leopard population. The park spans over 700 hectares and is home to around 14-15 leopards, making it a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Additionally, the park boasts over 200 bird species and 450+ plant species, offering a rich biodiversity. Enjoy your evening at leisure and prepare for another night in Jaipur.

Day 11: Drive back to Delhi

After breakfast – drive back to Delhi. Reach and check in to the hotel. Evening: free to explore and shop. Overnight will be at Delhi.

Day 12: Departure

Morning: free at leisure. Later – check out of the hotel and you will be transferred to the International airport to take a flight back home with sweet memories of Indian Culture and Nature.

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