Ghats to Grandeur- Varanasi & The Golden Triangle
per person
This itinerary takes you through the cultural and spiritual heart of North India, weaving together the ancient traditions, sacred rituals, and architectural marvels of cities like Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, Agra, and Jaipur. Begin your journey in the dynamic capital of Delhi, where Mughal history meets…
This itinerary takes you through the cultural and spiritual heart of North India, weaving together the ancient traditions, sacred rituals, and architectural marvels of cities like Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, Agra, and Jaipur. Begin your journey in the dynamic capital of Delhi, where Mughal history meets modern vibrance, then experience the spiritual energy of Varanasi, India’s oldest living city on the banks of the Ganges.
Witness sacred rituals, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, discover royal legacies in Lucknow, marvel at the Taj Mahal in Agra, and dive into the royal heritage of Jaipur, the Pink City of Rajasthan. This itinerary blends spirituality, history, art, and cuisine—offering a deep, immersive experience of North India’s rich and timeless soul.
Day 1 - Delhi
- Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your hotel
- Freshen up and Relax
- Visit Humayun’s Tomb – the Mughal precursor to the Taj Mahal
- Visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
- Explore Connaught Place for shopping and dining
Day 2 - Delhi
- Visit Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques
- Explore Chandni Chowk by rickshaw
- Stop at Red Fort (outside visit or enter if time permits)
- Explore India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and Rajpath
- Visit Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Explore Lotus Temple or Akshardham Temple (optional but popular)
- Return to hotel
Day 3 - Delhi - Varanasi
- Take a morning flight to Varanasi (1.5 hours)
- Transfer to your hotel
- Explore the old lanes of Varanasi
- Take a boat ride on the Ganges in the late afternoon
- Witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Day 4 - Varanasi
- Take a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges
- See the morning rituals and cremation ghats
- Visit Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon
- See Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, and Mulagandha Kuti Vihara
- Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
- Explore local silk markets
Day 5 - Varanasi - Lucknow
- Travel to Lucknow by train or drive
- Walk through Rumi Darwaza and Husainabad Clock Tower
- Try Awadhi cuisine or relax at hotel
Day 6 Lucknow - Agra
- Visit Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara
- Travel to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal (Train or Drive)
- Check in and relax at your hotel
Day 7 - Agra
- Visit Taj Mahal at sunrise
- Explore Agra Fort, the former Mughal capital
- Optional: Visit the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah ("Baby Taj")
- Optional: Visit Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra
- Visit Mehtab Bagh for sunset views of the Taj from across the Yamuna River
- Explore Sadar Bazaar for local snacks and handicrafts
Day 8 - Agra - Jaipur
- Depart Agra for Jaipur
- En route stop at Fatehpur Sikri – the abandoned Mughal capital
- Highlights: Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Salim Chishti’s Tomb
- Arrive in Jaipur and check-in to hotel
- Visit Chokhi Dhani for a traditional Rajasthani dinner and cultural show (optional)
Day 9 - Jaipur
- Visit Amber Fort and enjoy an elephant/jeep ride to the entrance
- Stop at Panna Meena Ka Kund (stepwell)
- Visit City Palace, Jantar Mantar (astronomical observatory)
- Photo stop at Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)
- Explore Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar for textiles and souvenirs
Day 10 - Jaipur - Delhi
- Drive back to Delhi
- Check-in to hotel near the airport or city center
- Free time for shopping, rest, or optional sightseeing Suggestion: Visit Dilli Haat for handicrafts from across India
Day 11 - Delhi - Departure
- Transfer to airport for your onward flight
Tour Location