Royal and Sacred Wonders of India: A Journey Through Time

Welcome to India! Your journey begins as you arrive in New Delhi, a city that blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. Our friendly representative will greet you at the airport and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel.

Once you’ve settled in and refreshed, dive straight into the sights, sounds, and flavours of Delhi. Begin with a guided tour of Old Delhi, where narrow lanes buzz with cycle rickshaws, street vendors, and centuries-old traditions. Stroll through Chandni Chowk, one of the city's oldest and busiest markets, where the aroma of spiced chai, sizzling kebabs, and sweet jalebis fills the air. Visit the magnificent Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, before experiencing a rickshaw ride through the lively backstreets.

Next, head to New Delhi, where the contrast is striking. See the grand colonial architecture of India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace), and Parliament House. Visit the Lodhi Gardens, a peaceful green space dotted with Mughal tombs, and marvel at the towering Qutub Minar, a UNESCO-listed masterpiece from the 12th century.

Later, stop by the Lotus Temple, a striking modern architectural wonder, before exploring Gurudwara Rakabganj, a Sikh temple known for its warm hospitality and spiritual serenity. End the day at Dilli Haat, an open-air craft bazaar where you can pick up handmade souvenirs and enjoy a variety of authentic Indian dishes.

Return to your hotel for a delicious welcome dinner, giving you a taste of North Indian cuisine with dishes like butter chicken, dal makhani, and freshly baked naan.

Overnight stay in Delhi.

After a leisurely breakfast, set out to explore more of Delhi’s incredible landmarks, beginning with a visit to the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Mughal grandeur. Wander through its expansive courtyards and marvel at its intricate red sandstone architecture.

Next, visit the Akshardham Temple, one of the most impressive Hindu temple complexes in the world. With its awe-inspiring carvings, spiritual exhibitions, and stunning musical fountains, this site offers a deep dive into India’s rich traditions and philosophy.

Take a stroll through Connaught Place, the heart of New Delhi’s commercial district, lined with colonial-era buildings, high-end boutiques, and lively cafes. Stop for a refreshing masala chai or lassi at a local café before continuing to Rajpath, the ceremonial boulevard flanked by government buildings, leading up to Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace).

For an immersive cultural experience, visit the National Museum, where ancient artefacts, royal treasures, and historic manuscripts bring India’s past to life. If you prefer something more interactive, head to the Gandhi Smriti, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi, now a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.

As evening falls, visit the India Gate, beautifully illuminated at night, where locals and tourists alike gather to soak in the lively atmosphere. End your day with a rooftop dinner overlooking the city skyline, where you can sample Delhi’s famous street food flavours, such as chaat, kebabs, and stuffed parathas.

Overnight stay in Delhi.

After an early breakfast, set off on a scenic drive along the Yamuna Expressway to Agra (180 km), home to some of India’s most iconic landmarks. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and refresh before beginning an afternoon of discovery.

Start at Sikandra, the grand mausoleum of Emperor Akbar, blending Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist, and Jain architectural elements. From there, visit the Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, often called the Baby Taj, an exquisite white marble structure that inspired the Taj Mahal’s design.

As the sun starts to set, it’s time for the highlight of the day—the Taj Mahal. Step into the timeless beauty of this UNESCO-listed wonder, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Admire the intricate marble inlay work, perfect symmetry, and stunning reflection in the Yamuna River as the monument glows in the golden evening light.

End your day with a traditional Mughlai dinner, savouring dishes such as biryani, kebabs, and rich curries, before heading back to your hotel.

Overnight stay in Agra.

Wake up early for a stunning sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, an experience that truly brings out the monument’s ethereal beauty. Return to your hotel for breakfast before departing for Fatehpur Sikri, a fascinating 16th-century ghost city and former Mughal capital. Walk through its grand sandstone palaces, courtyards, and mosques, frozen in time since Emperor Akbar abandoned it due to water shortages.

From here, continue to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (Keoladeo National Park), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for birdwatchers. Depending on the season, you might spot vibrant kingfishers, painted storks, or even the rare Siberian crane. Explore the sanctuary by cycle rickshaw or a guided nature walk before heading back on the road.

By late afternoon, arrive in Gwalior, a city steeped in royal history. Check into your hotel and relax before an evening visit to the Gwalior Fort, one of the most magnificent hilltop forts in India. Admire the breathtaking views of the city as the sun sets behind its ancient walls.

End the day with a delicious dinner at your hotel, indulging in Gwalior’s local delicacies like bedai poori and sabzi, or the famous Gwalior kachori.

Overnight stay in Gwalior.

After breakfast, set off on a deeper exploration of Gwalior’s royal and architectural wonders. Start with the Jai Vilas Palace, a grand 19th-century palace that is part royal residence and part museum, showcasing extravagant chandeliers, ornate furnishings, and one of the largest dining tables in the world.

Continue to the Sas-Bahu Temples, stunning twin temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for their intricate carvings. Then, explore the towering Jain statues carved into the hillsides, depicting revered Tirthankaras, a testament to Gwalior’s spiritual significance.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon before a traditional dinner at your hotel. Overnight stay in Gwalior.

After breakfast, leave Gwalior behind and drive to Orchha, a picturesque town nestled on the banks of the Betwa River. Orchha, once the capital of the Bundela Rajput kings, is filled with magnificent palaces, temples, and cenotaphs that transport you back to a bygone era.

On arrival, check into your hotel and refresh before setting off to explore Orchha Fort, a grand complex housing palaces and temples. Visit the Jahangir Mahal, an exquisite palace built to honour the Mughal emperor Jahangir, with its delicate latticed windows and stunning views of the river. Explore the Raj Mahal, known for its elaborate murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, and the Rai Praveen Mahal, once home to a famous poetess and courtesan.

In the afternoon, take a refreshing dip in the Betwa River, or enjoy a leisurely walk along its banks, soaking in the tranquillity of this hidden gem. Visit the sacred Ram Raja Temple, unique in that it is the only temple in India where Lord Rama is worshipped as a king. Admire the towering Chaturbhuj Temple, an architectural marvel with its grand domes and towering spires.

As the sun sets, take a stroll through the Orchha Cenotaphs, a collection of beautifully carved chhatris (domed pavilions) built in memory of the Bundela kings, offering a magical view of the river at dusk.

End the day with a traditional Bundeli-style dinner, featuring local specialities like sabutdana khichdi, kachoris, and laddoos, before heading back to your hotel.

Overnight stay in Orchha.

After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Khajuraho, one of India’s most fascinating historical sites. This UNESCO-listed temple complex is world-famous for its intricate carvings, depicting scenes of love, life, and devotion from Hindu mythology. The temples, built between the 10th and 12th centuries by the Chandela dynasty, showcase some of the most exquisite sculptures in India.

On arrival, check into your hotel and refresh before heading out to explore the Western Group of Temples, which house some of the finest examples of Indian temple architecture. Marvel at the breathtaking Kandariya Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, with its towering spire and intricate carvings. Wander through the Lakshmana Temple, known for its detailed friezes depicting gods, goddesses, and celestial beings.

Later, visit the Raneh Waterfalls, a stunning natural wonder just outside Khajuraho, where the Ken River flows through dramatic volcanic rock formations, creating a mesmerising display of colours. This is a perfect spot for photography and a moment of tranquillity in nature.

As the evening sets in, experience a captivating light and sound show at the temple complex, where the history of Khajuraho comes alive with dramatic narration and colourful illuminations.

Enjoy a delicious traditional Bundelkhandi dinner, featuring regional delicacies such as bhutte ka kees (spiced corn dish) and kodu roti (millet bread) before returning to your hotel for a restful night.

Overnight stay in Khajuraho.

Start your day with an early morning jeep safari into the Panna National Park, one of India’s most scenic tiger reserves. As the sun rises over the dense forests, keep an eye out for the elusive Bengal tiger, along with leopards, deer, jackals, and a vibrant array of bird species. The thrill of spotting wildlife in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.

After returning to your hotel for a hearty breakfast, set out to explore more of Khajuraho’s historic and natural wonders. Visit the Eastern Group of Temples, which are less crowded yet equally stunning. The Javari and Parsvanath Temples showcase intricate carvings, while the Vamana Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a fine example of classical Indian temple architecture.

In the afternoon, take a short trip to the Ajaygarh Fort, perched atop a hill with breathtaking panoramic views. This off-the-beaten-path gem is known for its historical significance and stunning vantage points, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling temple sites.

Later, head to the Benisagar Dam, a serene spot perfect for unwinding by the water. You can
enjoy the scenic surroundings as the sun begins to set over the tranquil landscape.

Before dinner, indulge in a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage, designed to refresh both body and mind after a day of exploration. Then, enjoy a delightful meal featuring local Bundelkhandi specialities, before retiring for the night at your hotel.

Overnight stay in Khajuraho.

After breakfast, depart for Varanasi, India’s holiest city and one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. Whether you travel by flight or train, the journey will take you to a city that pulsates with spiritual energy and ancient traditions.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and refresh before heading out for a walking tour of the bustling bazaars. Varanasi is famed for its silk weaving, and you’ll have the chance to explore vibrant markets brimming with handcrafted Banarasi silk sarees, scarves, and carpets. If you’re looking for an authentic souvenir, this is the perfect place to find one.

In the evening, make your way to the Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the Ganga Aarti, a mesmerising Hindu ritual where priests offer fire and chants to the sacred River Ganges. This deeply spiritual ceremony, performed to the rhythmic sounds of bells and chanting, is an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Varanasi’s devotion.

After soaking in the magical atmosphere, enjoy a traditional dinner featuring local delicacies like kachori sabzi, malaiyyo (a famous Varanasi sweet), and creamy lassi before returning to your hotel.

Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Wake up early for a magical sunrise boat cruise along the Ganges River. As the first light of day reflects off the water, you’ll witness locals performing their morning prayers and rituals on the ghats. This serene and spiritual experience offers a rare glimpse into the centuries-old traditions of Varanasi.

After breakfast, embark on a visit to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, a towering structure that marks the exact spot of the sermon, and the Archaeological Museum, which houses ancient relics and sculptures from the Mauryan era.

Spend the afternoon visiting some of Varanasi’s most stunning temples. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the holiest shrines in India. Continue to the Durga Temple, known as the Monkey Temple due to the playful primates that roam the premises, and the Tulsi Manas Temple, which has walls inscribed with verses from the Ramayana.

If time allows, stop by the Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of India’s most prestigious academic institutions, and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which houses an incredible collection of paintings, sculptures, and historical manuscripts.

As the day winds down, enjoy another scenic evening along the Ganges, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere before returning to your hotel for dinner.

Overnight stay in Varanasi.

As your incredible journey comes to an end, wake up early for one last walk along the ghats of the Ganges, taking in the serene atmosphere before breakfast.
After checking out of your hotel, our team will assist with your transfer to Varanasi Airport for your domestic flight back to New Delhi. If you have extra time before your international departure, consider visiting a local market for last-minute souvenirs, enjoying a final cup of masala chai, or reflecting on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had over the past 11 days.
For those with later flights, we can arrange a short city tour of Delhi, giving you a chance to revisit any favourite spots or explore something new.
Finally, we’ll ensure a smooth transfer to Indira Gandhi International Airport, where you’ll board your flight home, carrying a heart full of memories and a deeper connection to the rich history and culture of India.
Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back soon!