9-Day North India Exploration and Ganges

Upon arrival in Delhi, the representative will greet you and escort you to the hotel for check-in. After briefing you about your India tour, the rest of the day is free for you to have a rest and recover from the jet lag.

Overnight: Delhi

Today your tour will begin with a visit to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in the country. Take a rickshaw through an oldest bazaar Chandni Chowk to get a feel of local life. Close by is Red Fort, which plays an integral part in the history of the city.

Later, wonder at the 73-meter tall tapering tower of Qutub Minar. After learning about the story of Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat, you will visit Humayun's Tomb and then drive along the city landmarks of India Gate, President's House, Parliament House and Government Secretariat Buildings. In the end, make a visit to Laxmi Narayan Temple, the first large Hindu temple built in Delhi.

Overnight: Delhi
Meal: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi, a city on the banks of the Ganges. Upon arrival, the representative will meet you and escort you to the hotel for check-in. After that, you will have some time to relax. As dusk descends, it is time to watch the Aarti Ceremony held in public, which is a very powerful and uplifting spiritual ritual and takes place facing the river.

Overnight: Varanasi
Meal: Breakfast

Start today’s tour with a sunrise boat cruise on the Ganges River, during which you can observe the faithful Hindus bathing in the river. Return to the hotel to enjoy breakfast, and then make a visit to Banaras Hindu University. Followed by is Golden Temple, the holiest Gurdwara of Sikhism. Continue on to watch a relief map of India at Bharat Mata Temple.

In the afternoon, you will transfer to Sarnath for a visit to the Deer Park, where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma. The last stop is Sarnath Museum (closed on Fridays).

Overnight: Varanasi
Meal: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, your private driver will meet you at the airport exit and then transfer you to Agra (around 4.5 hours’ drive). After checking in to the hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight: Agra
Meal: Breakfast

Today, wake up early to enjoy the most beautiful moment of the Taj Mahal. As the sun rises, you will marvel at the stunning views of this ivory-white marble mausoleum. Return to the hotel for breakfast and have a rest. In the afternoon, continue your visit to Agra Fort, which was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638. Later, end this day at Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden), where you could enjoy a beautiful romantic view of Taj Mahal from a different angle.

Overnight: Agra
Meal: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven to Jaipur (around 5 hours). En route, pay a visit to Fatehpur Sikri, which was served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. This imperial complex contains a series of royal palaces, harem, courts, a mosque, private quarters and other utility buildings. Followed by a photo stop at the fabulous Abhaneri Step Well (without guide service). Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and have a rest. This evening, enjoy a complimentary dinner at your hotel.

Overnight: Jaipur
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

In the morning, you will be driven to the foot of a hill to ascend to the entrance of Amber Fort by a jeep ride. Step into the fort to appreciate various beautiful buildings, especially the wonderful Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors).

Later, visit Maharaja City Palace, a fascinating museum displaying royal costumes, artwork, and weaponry. Close by is Jantar Mantar, which features the world's largest stone sundial. At the end of the tour, you will take wonderful pictures at the exterior facade of Hawa Mahal, a magnificent architecture constructed of red and pink sandstone. In the evening, enjoy a complimentary dinner at your hotel.

Overnight: Jaipur
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

In the morning, you will be transferred to Delhi by car. Upon arrival, you will have some time to walk around on your own before driving to the airport for your flight back home.

Meal: Breakfast