GRAND MONUMENTS AND TEMPLES OF INDIA TOUR

8 Nights / 9 Days

Tour India's famous Golden Triangle through some of it's most fascinating towns and visit some of the most extraordinary temples. The Ganges River and the burning ghats in Varanasi (Benares), the Taj Mahal in Agra, ancient Jain temple architecture in Khajuraho, colorful forts of Jaipur - a tour of festive colors and exquisite architecture.

Itinerary Route: Delhi - Jaipur - Agra - Khajuraho - Varanasi - Delhi

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

You will be greeted at the airport by a Tour Packages India Representative and then escorted to your hotel by private AC car. As the check-in is facilitated by the desk staff you will be briefed on the tour program after which you'll be escorted to your room where you'll spend the next two nights.

Day 2: Delhi

After breakfast you will embark on a day of sightseeing around Delhi. Delhi is said to be one of the oldest existing cities in the world, along with Damascus and Varanasi. Legend estimates it to be over 5,000 years old - it is said to have been built and destroyed 11 times throughout its history. In spite of its rich historical heritage represented by it's innumerable monuments, Delhi's population is reputed for having little awareness of or pride in the city's history due to the simple reason that few Delhi residents actually belong to Delhi. The population of Delhi is a heterogeneous mix of people originating from every corner of India. Undoubtedly, this will become obvious during your tour through the city. Delhi is by far the most cosmopolitan city in India and a true traveller's delight.

Day 3: Delhi to Jaipur via Samode (265 km / 6 hour drive)

Opt for a Safari and a Farm House Lunch at Samode on the way to Jailpur.

Day 4: Jaipur

Jaipur has many points of interest. Please visit "Local Attractions" to see a comprehensive list of activities. No doubt, you'll have no problem filling your days in Jaipur.

Day 5: Jaipur to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri (245 km / 5 hour drive)

On the way to Agra, stop off at Fatehpur Sikri - an old deserted town of the Mughal Dynasty, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 years due to water scarcity. Later in the afternoon, check-in to your hotel in Agra. Of course, the Taj Mahal awaits - the best time to view the Taj is late afternoon to watch the changing colors of the Taj as the colorful sunsets reflect upon it.

Note: The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays

Day 6: Agra to Khajuraho via Jhansi and Orchha

Catch a train to Jhansi, less than a 3-hour ride to the south. Travel to Khajuraho via Orchha to visit ancient temples. Check-in to your hotel in Khajuraho. If time permits, stroll the gardens surrounding the Jain temples...best seen in early morning and evening.

Day 7: Khajuraho to Varanasi (by Air)

The Jain temples of Khajuraho are known for the erotic content of the carvings as well as for their intricacy. The central complex which borders the edge of town occupies beautiful gardens and a peaceful atmosphere. Stroll, relax, gaze in awe at these unforgettable examples of Jain architecture from the 9th century. Later, board a plane for a short flight to Varanasi where you'll spend the night.

Day 8: Varanasi

Board an early morning boat at the riverbanks for a cruise on the Ganges River. The western banks have a string of ghats which the pilgrims occupy during their stay. At dawn, the ghats are abuzz with activity as devotees offer prayers to the rising sun and perform religious rituals. Return to hotel for breakfast. Later visit the Bharat Mata Temple which has on display a giant bas relief map of India in marble. Take a drive through the largest residential university of Asia - Banaras Hindu University. Founded by Pundit Madan Mohan Malviya, the university houses an Art Gallery as well as the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb. Stop over at the Bharat Kala Bhavan where you can see some of the finest miniatures on display in India. In the afternoon, tour the Sarnath, the buried Buddhist city where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Sarnath was a renowned school of learning from 6th century B.C. to 12th century A.D.

Day 9: Varanasi to Delhi (by Air)

After breakfast, depart for the airport for a short flight to Delhi where, after your arrival, you'll enjoy a Farewell Dinner. Later on, depart for the International Airport to continue your onward journey.

Extend or Customize Your Tour: We would be happy to assist with additional travel and hotel arrangements. Changes to this tour can be added as an inclusive part of the package.

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