Golden Triangle With Varanasi

Upon arrival at Delhi International Airport, meet our representative who will transfer you to your hotel. After refreshing, enjoy a half-day tour of Old Delhi, visiting the impressive Jama Masjid (India’s largest mosque), the magnificent Red Fort (UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, one of India’s oldest and busiest markets. Overnight in Delhi.

Following breakfast, explore New Delhi’s landmarks including Laxmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir), India Gate (war memorial), Parliament House and government buildings (from outside), Humayun’s Tomb (the architectural precursor to the Taj Mahal), and Qutub Minar complex featuring a 73-meter tall minaret built in 1193. After sightseeing, drive to Jaipur, known as the “Pink City” for its distinctive rose-colored buildings. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast, visit the magnificent Amber Fort, located on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake. Enjoy a traditional elephant ride up the fort’s ramparts (subject to availability). Explore this extensive palace complex with its series of courtyards, halls, and private chambers. In the afternoon, tour Jaipur city, visiting the City Palace complex which continues to be the residence of the royal family, Jantar Mantar (an astronomical observatory built in the early 18th century), and the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) with its distinctive honeycomb façade. Spend time exploring the local bazaars known for textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. Overnight in Jaipur.

After breakfast, drive to Agra. En route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned capital of Emperor Akbar. This remarkably preserved red sandstone city offers insight into the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Explore its key monuments including the Buland Darwaza (Victory Gate), Jama Masjid, Panch Mahal (five-story palace), and various pavilions. Continue to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Evening at leisure to rest or explore local markets. Overnight in Agra.

Rise early to visit the magnificent Taj Mahal at sunrise, when the changing light creates a magical atmosphere at this monument to eternal love. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble mausoleum is India’s most recognized landmark. Note: The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays. Later, visit Agra Fort, a massive red sandstone fortress where Shah Jahan spent his final years as a prisoner of his son, gazing at the Taj Mahal across the river. Also visit Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, often called the “Baby Taj,” an exquisite marble tomb that prefigured the Taj Mahal. In the evening, transfer to the railway station to board your overnight train to Varanasi. Overnight on board.

Upon arrival at Varanasi railway station, meet our representative who will transfer you to your hotel. After refreshing, visit Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the archaeological museum, Dhamek Stupa, and other Buddhist monuments. Return to Varanasi for a city tour including Alamgir Mosque, Dasaswamedh Ghat (the main ghat on the Ganges), and Bharat Mata Temple dedicated to Mother India. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti (prayer ceremony) performed on the banks of the river, where priests honor the river with incense, flowers, and oil lamps. Overnight in Varanasi.

Rise before dawn for a boat ride on the sacred Ganges River as the sun rises. Witness the activities along the ghats as pilgrims perform ritual bathing and prayers while cremation pyres burn continuously at certain ghats. This profound experience offers insight into Hindu beliefs about the cycle of life and death. Return to your hotel for breakfast before transferring to the airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, connect with your international departure flight.