Taj, Temples and Ganges

Arrive at Delhi by international flight. After meet by a KVT representative, we will be transferred to hotel. Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, offers a captivating blend of rich history and modern tradition that charms every traveler. Afternoon get ready for Delhi sightseeing. We proceed to Old Delhi and visit Jama Masjid – the largest mosque of Old Delhi built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Later go for an exciting cycle rickshaw ride through lively thoroughfares and bustling alleyways of Old Delhi market rarely visited by typical tourists. Arrive at Khari Baoli and see Asia’s largest wholesale spice market. Our exploration continues as we drive past historic colonial landmarks, such as Rashtrapati Bhawan, Parliament House, and India Gate—a poignant memorial dedicated to soldiers of the First World War.

Early morning transfer to New Delhi railway station for train Vande Bharat Exp. (06:00 / 14:20hrs – train does not run on Mondays) to Khajuraho. Meeting at the railway station upon arrival and later we will be transferred to hotel. Khajuraho is a small town located in the Madhya Pradesh and is famous for groups of Hindu and Jain temples. These temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their beautiful and erotic rock carvings. Rest of the time free to relax at the hotel or to explore the small town on your own.
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast we proceed for a sightseeing of Khajuraho and visit Group of Monuments – UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between 950 – 1050AD by the Chandela dynasty, these monuments are popular for their Nagara-style architectural symbolism and their erotic sculptures. Explore the Western group of temples consist of Kandariya Mahadeo, Lakshmana, Chausat Yogini, Jagadambi, Chitragupta, Matangeshwara, Vishwanath and Varaha. Later visit Eastern group of temples comprised of Ghantai, Parasvanath, Adinath, Brahma, Hanuman, Javari and Vamana. Also visit Southern Group of Temples includes Beejamandal, Dulhadev, Jatkari and Chaturbhuj.
Meals: Breakfast

Today we move towards Gwalior – a city of heritage and valor, steeped in history, culture, and architectural splendor. It has been ruled by several dynasties, including the Tomars, Mughals, Marathas, and Scindias, each leaving a distinct imprint on the city’s culture and monuments. After breakfast we drive to Gwalior (4.5 – 5.5hrs drive) and upon arrival will check in to the hotel. Evening we will proceed to the Gwalior Fort to witness a captivating sound and light show, weaving together the threads of history into a vivid tapestry of narratives and stories. The magnificent architecture of the fort serves as a canvas, illuminated by vibrant colours that dance to the rhythm of the tales being told.
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast we start exploring the history and culture kept secret in this royal city. We begin with a visit to the Gwalior Fort, often called the “Gibraltar of India,” stands majestically atop a rocky hill and has witnessed many battles and sieges. Inside the fort, you’ll find structures like the Man Singh Palace, Sas Bahu Temples, and the ancient Teli Ka Mandir, showcasing a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. Our next destination is the grand Jai Vilas Palace – residence of the Scindia family, featuring a stunning mix of Tuscan and Corinthian architecture. A part of the palace is converted to a museum with main attraction being the massive Durbar Hall decorated with ornate gilded ceilings, Persian carpets, and lavish upholstery and adorned with two massive 3.5-tonne chandeliers. Post sightseeing we will drive to Agra (2.5 – 3.5hrs drive) and upon arrival we check in to our hotel. Located on the banks of the river Yamuna, Agra is a city famous for its rich Mughal history and architectural marvels.

After breakfast we proceed for Agra sightseeing with a visit to the beautiful Taj Mahal, built by the 5th Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan on the banks of River Yamuna in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. A symbol of eternal love, the Taj Mahal is serenely beautiful and never fails to amaze a first time visitor (Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays). We visit Agra Fort, whose mighty red sandstone walls enclose the beautiful white marble Pearl Mosque and the palaces, halls, courtyards and fountains of his sons and successors, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. We will also see the Itmad-Ud-Daulah – a Mughal mausoleum often called ‘Jewel Box’, which was commissioned by Nur Jahan, the wife of 4th Mughal Emperor Jahangir, for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. We spend evening visiting the bazaar where the local artisans do the famous fine marble inlay work.

Early morning we will be transferred to Agra railway station for train Vande Bharat Exp. (06:00 / 13:00hrs – train does not run on Wednesdays) to Varanasi. Meeting at the railway station upon arrival and later we will be transferred to hotel. On the bank of the river Ganga, Varanasi is one of the holiest cities in India and stands at the centre of the Hindu universe. There are thousands of pilgrims, wandering holy men (Sadhus), religious elders and casual visitors flocking the city. Late afternoon head straight to Assi Ghat to enjoy evening boat ride on River Ganga during the sunset and also to witness the beautiful Ganga aarti (evening prayer) that happens every evening at the Dashashwamedh Ghat along the river. The priests wave lamps, chant hymns and ring bells and devotees join the rituals.

Early morning participate in the Dawn boat ride on the River Ganga – a unique experience as one sail past the bathing ghats along the river Ganga and explore the daily life of people surrounding the ghats and the river. See the priests offering their morning prayers, while common people gather around the ghats to have a dip in the river Ganga and offer their prayers. After an exhilarating experience, you will walk through the narrow lanes of the old city experiencing the daily life of the people residing in those areas. Arrive and see the Kashi Vishwanath Temple – the main and renowned temple of Varanasi dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afternoon we proceed to Benaras Hindu University (BHU) and go for a ride through one of the largest residential University campus and learn about its history. Continue with the tour with a visit to Bharat Mata temple which has a huge bas-relief map of undivided Bharat (India) carved in marble. We will then visit Sarnath – the place where Gautam Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa and other monastery ruins present here. Also visit few modern temples built by some Japanese and Tibetan followers. Lastly visit the Archaeological Museum (Museum is closed on Fridays).

After breakfast we will be transferred to Varanasi airport for flight back to Delhi. Upon arrival connect onward international flight back to home country.
Meals: Breakfast