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Day 1: Full day sightseeing in Delhi.
We pick you up from the location of your choice in New Delhi at 9 a.m. in the morning, for a tour of Old Delhi. The former capital of the powerful rulers of the Mughal dynasty, it boasts of a plethora of impressive monuments. We begin with a visit to the massive Red Fort built by Shah Jahan in 1648 A.D., then explore the fascinating, colorful Chandni Chowk market by cycle-rickshaw and arrive at Jama Masjid. Believed to be the largest mosque in India, this imposing monument offers a bird’s eye view of Delhi from the top of its 40m high minarets. It was the last of Shah Jahan’s magnificent architectural constructions (1658 A.D.).
Drive past Safdarjang’s tomb, to visit the highest stone tower in India, the Qutab Minar, begun in 1199 A.D. by Qutab-ud-din Aibak; the Iron Pillar, a metallurgical marvel which has not rusted in over 1500 years and the imposing Tomb of Humayun. Considered to be the precursor of the Taj Mahal, it is the earliest example of Mughal architecture in India.
On your way back to your hotel, you will drive through New Delhi, which came into existence much later and is also known as Lutyens’ Delhi. Named after Edwin Lutyens, the British architect who was largely responsible for designing the India Gate (memorial to the martyrs of World War I), Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential House), the Secretariat, the Parliament House and many other government buildings.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2: Delhi – Agra.
Check out from your hotel in Delhi for the drive to Agra. The journey will take approximately four hours, hence an 8 a.m. morning start is recommended.
After arriving at Agra, check into your hotel.
In the afternoon begin your discovery of the historic city of Agra with a visit to the impressive red sandstone Agra Fort built by Akbar – the most illustrious ruler of the Mughal dynasty - in 1565 A.D. It was subsequently embellished with beautiful palaces, mosque and gardens by his successors. Replete with priceless examples of craftsmanship from the Mughal era, these include the exquisite Moti Masjid or Pearl Mosque, the Diwan-i-Khas, the Diwan-i-Am, Jahangir Mahal and Shish Mahal.
Visit the magnificent Taj Mahal, a pristine white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife – Mumtaz Mahal. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, it took 20,000 workers from neighboring Islamic countries, 22 years of ceaseless toil to create this exquisite white marble monument upon which peopled have waxed eloquent throughout the world. Experience a splendid sunset viewing of the Taj Mahal and then return to your hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3: Agra - Gwalior
Check out of your hotel after breakfast, for the drive to Gwalior – approximately a 2 ½ hour drive. Check into your hotel. In the afternoon visit the 15th century Gwalior Fort, built on a sandstone precipice and overlooking the surrounding plains. Built during the reign of the greatest Tomar king, Raja Man Singh, Gwalior Fort dominates Gwalior city which has served as the center of several historic North Indian kingdoms. The magnificent fort with its two main entrances, encloses many wonders of medieval architecture such as the Sas-Bahu and Teli-ka-Mandirs, several palaces such as Gujari, Karan, Jahangir and Man Mandir Mahals (Palaces) etc.
In the evening, witness an absorbing Sound & Light Show at the Gwalior Fort.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4: Gwalior – Khajuraho
Check out of your hotel after an early breakfast for the morning drive to Khajuraho. The journey to Khajuraho will take about 5 hours.
Arrive at Khajuraho and check into your hotel.
In the afternoon, venture out to explore the intricately carved temples of Khajuraho, the acme of architectural achievement of the Chandela rulers. Constructed between 950 A.D. and 1050 A.D., the intricate workmanship of these exquisite temples defies description.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 5: Khajuraho - Varanasi
In the morning, set out once again to explore the remainder of the world famous Khajuraho temples. The most important temples are those which belong to the Western Group. After an early lunch, transfer to the airport in time to catch the afternoon flight to Varanasi – one of the ancient seats of learning in India, on the banks of the Ganges.
Arrive at Varanasi and check into your hotel.
In the evening, witness the beautiful evening ‘aarti’ and prayer oil-lamp ceremony at the ghats, which seem to have existed since time immemorial. As hundreds of diyas (lit earthenware lamps) and flowers are sent floating down the Ganges, the river is transformed into a shimmering expanse of light.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 6: Varanasi
Enjoy an early morning boat-ride on the River Ganges and visit the numerous Ghats of Varanasi, witness to the human drama of various important events in the life cycle of a Hindu.
In the afternoon take an excursion to Sarnath – famous as the place where Buddha preached his first sermon after gaining enlightenment, in 590 BC.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 7: Varanasi - Delhi
Morning at leisure. Check out of your hotel at noon and transfer to the airport in time to catch the late afternoon flight to Delhi. Arrive in Delhi and we drop you at the location of your choice.
Flight Supplement: Khajuraho - Varanasi – Delhi:
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