Jewel in the Crown – 11 Days Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Welcome to India! Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Settle in, unwind, and prepare for your exploration of India’s vibrant capital.

Day 2: Sightseeing in Old and New Delhi

Start your day with a guided tour of Old Delhi, visiting the impressive Red Fort, India’s largest mosque, Jama Masjid, and the bustling bazaars of Chandni Chowk. In the afternoon, explore New Delhi, where British architect Sir Edward Lutyens designed iconic structures such as India Gate and Rajpath. You’ll also visit Connaught Place and the impressive Qutub Minar, a historical tower that signifies the arrival of Islam in the 11th century. The day concludes with a visit to a traditional carpet emporium.

Day 3-4: Jaipur – The Pink City

Today, drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and UNESCO-listed for its distinctive pink-hued buildings. Spend the afternoon relaxing and exploring at your own pace. On Day 4, take a jeep ride to the 15th-century Amber Fort, known for its stunning architecture and historic significance. Following this, enjoy a guided tour of the City Palace and visit the Jantar Mantar observatory, a UNESCO site famous for its astronomical instruments. Conclude with a visit to the iconic Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, with its stunning lattice of balconies.

Day 5-6: Agra and the Taj Mahal

Depart for Agra with a stop at Fatehpur Sikri, a fascinating Mughal city abandoned over 400 years ago. Upon arrival in Agra, settle in and enjoy the evening at your leisure. On Day 6, witness the world-renowned Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love crafted by Shah Jahan in the 16th century. Afterward, explore the grand Agra Fort and a marble workshop where local artisans create intricate crafts. The rest of the day is free to explore Agra.

Day 7: Jhansi, Orchha, and Khajuraho

Begin the day with a train ride to Jhansi, followed by a road trip to Khajuraho. Along the way, stop in Orchha, a town along the Betwa River known for its exquisite temples and palaces built by the 16th-century Bundela rulers. Continue your journey to Khajuraho, famed for its temples adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.

Day 8: Temples of Khajuraho and Journey to Varanasi

Spend the morning exploring Khajuraho’s celebrated temples, renowned for their stunning erotic sculptures depicting various themes of life and spirituality. Later, embark on a journey to Varanasi, one of Hinduism’s holiest cities. Please note, flights from Khajuraho to Varanasi are currently not operational, so this leg of the trip will be covered by road.

Day 9: Varanasi – Sunrise on the Ganges and City Tour

Begin the day with an early morning boat ride on the sacred River Ganges, where you’ll witness the age-old tradition of ritual cleansing on the ghats. The sunrise on the river offers a serene view of Varanasi’s spiritual atmosphere. Afterward, explore the city’s many temples and winding streets filled with history and character. The afternoon offers time for relaxation and further exploration at your own pace.

Day 10: Varanasi to Delhi

Spend a leisurely morning in Varanasi, soaking up the last of this captivating city. Later, you’ll board a flight back to Delhi, where you can enjoy an evening at leisure or indulge in some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in the capital.

Day 11: Departure from Delhi

On your final day, enjoy a relaxing morning before being transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Your journey through India’s jewels, from historic monuments to sacred rivers, concludes with fond memories of this unforgettable experience.