Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Upon arrival at Delhi airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Relax and unwind from your journey, and take some time to acclimate to Delhi’s vibrant atmosphere. Delhi combines ancient landmarks with modern vibrancy, setting the stage for your exploration of India’s capital.

 

Day 2: Delhi Exploration

Start with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
Visit the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prime example of Mughal architecture. Built from red sandstone, this impressive fort served as the main residence of Mughal emperors for over 200 years. Its intricate palaces, gardens, and massive walls highlight its historical significance.
Head to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, renowned for its grand architecture and expansive courtyard that can accommodate thousands of worshippers. The mosque’s white marble and red sandstone construction, along with its towering minarets, are stunning examples of Mughal design.
Explore Chandni Chowk, a bustling market area in Old Delhi. Known for its narrow, crowded streets, this historic market is famous for its vibrant street food, traditional shops, and historic buildings. It offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.
Visit Raj Ghat, a peaceful memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. This simple black marble platform marks the site of Gandhi’s cremation and is surrounded by serene gardens. It is a place for reflection and homage to the Father of the Nation.
Marvel at Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a precursor to the Taj Mahal. This beautiful tomb, built by Humayun’s widow, features a large central dome and lush gardens, showcasing early Mughal architecture and intricate design.
Visit Qutub Minar, a 73-meter tall minaret built in the early 13th century. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its detailed carvings and inscriptions in Arabic, as well as its impressive height and historical significance.
Explore the Lotus Temple, an architectural wonder shaped like a lotus flower. This Bahá'í House of Worship is renowned for its serene ambiance and striking white marble design, symbolizing unity and peace.
Drive past the Presidential House, Parliament House, and India Gate, significant landmarks reflecting India’s political history and grandeur. The Presidential House, with its grand dome and extensive grounds, is the official residence of the President of India. The Parliament House, an iconic circular building, houses India’s legislative chambers. India Gate is a war memorial honoring Indian soldiers who died in World War I.

 

Day 3: Delhi to Agra (210km)

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before departing for Agra.
Arrive in Agra and visit the Taj Mahal, one of the most iconic structures in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is renowned for its stunning white marble façade, intricate inlay work, and symmetrical gardens. It is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and a symbol of eternal love.
Explore the Agra Fort, a majestic red sandstone fort located on the banks of the Yamuna River. Originally built as a military stronghold, it later became a royal residence. The fort’s palatial rooms, grand gates, and impressive defensive walls offer insights into Mughal fortification and lifestyle.
Visit the Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb, often referred to as the “Baby Taj” due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal. This tomb, constructed from white marble with elaborate inlay work, is notable for its delicate craftsmanship and serves as an early example of Mughal tomb architecture.

 

Day 4: Agra to Orchha via Gwalior (220kms)

After breakfast at the hotel, start your journey to Orchha with a stop in Gwalior.
Explore Gwalior Fort, a massive fortress perched on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. This fort, known for its impressive defensive architecture and historical significance, includes a range of palaces, temples, and gardens.
Continue to Orchha, a town known for its historic fort complex. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival.
Visit Orchha Fort, a sprawling complex featuring a series of palaces and temples. The fort’s architecture blends Hindu and Mughal styles, with notable structures such as the Jahangir Mahal, a grand palace built to honor Mughal Emperor Jahangir, the Raj Mahal, known for its frescoes, and the Rai Parveen Mahal, associated with the poetess Rai Parveen.
Explore Orchha’s temples and cenotaphs, including Chaturbhuj Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and the beautifully decorated Laxminarayan Temple. These sites reflect Orchha’s rich history and architectural heritage.

 

Day 5: Orchha to Khajuraho (180kms)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to Khajuraho.
Arrive in Khajuraho, famous for its stunning temples adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. These temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, depict a wide range of themes, from spirituality to sensuality.
After checking in at your hotel, visit the Western Group of Temples, known for their elaborate erotic sculptures and architectural beauty. The temples include the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, the largest and most ornate, and the Lakshmana Temple, notable for its impressive carvings.
Experience the light and sound show at the Western Group of Temples, which vividly narrates the history and legends of Khajuraho through a captivating audio-visual presentation.

 

Day 6: Khajuraho to Varanasi (Flight)

After breakfast at the hotel, catch a flight to Varanasi.
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel.
In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges River. This mesmerizing ritual involves priests performing a sacred fire ceremony, accompanied by hymns and chants. The sight of lamps floating on the river and the sound of devotional music create a spiritually uplifting experience.

 

Day 7: Varanasi Sightseeing

Start your day with an early morning boat ride on the Ganges River. As dawn breaks, observe the spiritual rituals performed by devotees along the ghats. The serene and vibrant atmosphere provides a unique perspective on the religious life of Varanasi.
Explore Varanasi’s narrow lanes, each filled with ancient temples, bustling markets, and historical buildings. The city’s labyrinthine streets are a fascinating blend of the old and the new.
Visit Banaras Hindu University, a prestigious educational institution known for its large campus and significant cultural contributions.
Explore Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, featuring a marble map of India carved in relief. This unique temple represents the concept of a united India.
Discover Tulsi Manas Temple, renowned for its marble carvings depicting scenes from the Ramcharitmanas, a revered Hindu text.
Visit the Sarnath Temple complex, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site includes the Dhamek Stupa, an important Buddhist monument, and various ruins and relics associated with Buddhism.
If time permits, visit the Ram Nagar Fort and Museum, which showcases the royal history of Varanasi with its collection of artifacts and historical exhibits.

 

Day 8: Varanasi to Bodhgaya (255kms)

After breakfast, drive to Bodhgaya, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.
Visit the Mahabodhi Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The temple is renowned for its large central stupa and the sacred Bodhi Tree.
Explore the surrounding monasteries, each representing different countries and architectural styles, providing insights into various Buddhist traditions and practices.

 

Day 9: Bodhgaya to Patna via Nalanda and Rajgir (170kms)

After breakfast, drive to Patna with stops at Rajgir and Nalanda.
In Rajgir, visit the ancient Buddhist site associated with Buddha’s teachings and meditative retreats. Explore Vulture’s Peak, a revered location where Buddha is said to have delivered teachings. The site includes ruins of ancient monasteries and temples.
Continue to Nalanda, an ancient center of learning known for its historical significance as one of the earliest residential universities. Visit the impressive ruins of Nalanda University, showcasing the architectural and educational heritage of the ancient center.
Arrive in Patna in the evening and check in at the hotel.

 

Day 10: Patna to Kolkata (Flight)

After breakfast, fly to Kolkata, a cultural and historical hub of India.
Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.
Visit Victoria Memorial, a grand white marble building commemorating Queen Victoria. The memorial houses a museum with exhibits on colonial history and features beautiful gardens and fountains.
Walk across Howrah Bridge, an iconic symbol of Kolkata, connecting the city with Howrah. This steel bridge is a vital transportation link and an engineering marvel.
Explore the Indian Museum, one of India’s oldest and largest museums, with extensive collections of antiques, artifacts, and art from various periods and cultures.
Visit Marble Palace, known for its exquisite marble architecture, lavish interiors, and art collection, including sculptures, paintings, and antique furniture.
End the day by sampling Bengali cuisine and exploring local markets, experiencing the vibrant flavors and bustling atmosphere of Kolkata.

 

Day 11: Kolkata to Bhubaneshwar (Flight)

After breakfast, take a flight to Bhubaneshwar, the capital city of Odisha known for its ancient temples.
Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.
Visit Lingaraja Temple, a major Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its towering spire and intricate carvings, it is a prominent example of Kalinga architecture.
Admire Mukteshwar Temple, famous for its ornate carvings and the well-preserved torana (gateway), representing the pinnacle of Kalinga art and architecture.
Explore Rajarani Temple, renowned for its elaborate sculptures and erotic carvings, which exemplify the artistic excellence of Kalinga temple architecture.
Visit Dhauli Stupa, a Buddhist site marking the spot where Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism after the Kalinga War. The site includes the peace pagoda and rock edicts inscribed by Ashoka.

 

Day 12: Bhubaneshwar to Puri via Konark (60kms)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to Puri.
Stop at Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site shaped like a colossal chariot. The temple’s detailed stone carvings depict celestial beings, mythical creatures, and scenes from daily life, showcasing the artistic brilliance of ancient Odisha.
Visit Raghurajpur, an artisan village renowned for its Pattachitra paintings, traditional scrolls depicting mythological themes, and local crafts.
Explore Pipili, known for its vibrant applique work, where colorful fabric is intricately stitched into patterns and designs.
Upon reaching Puri, visit Jagannath Temple, a major Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Subhadra and Balabhadra. The temple is famous for its annual Rath Yatra (chariot festival) and its vibrant religious and cultural significance.

 

Day 13: Puri to Chilika Lake (55kms)

After breakfast, embark on a day trip to Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.
Sail through the lake’s tranquil waters, observing migratory birds such as flamingos, herons, and pelicans. The lake is a paradise for birdwatchers and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Experience the serene environment of Chilika Lake, enjoying the natural beauty and the peaceful atmosphere.
Return to Puri in the evening and relax by the beach, soaking in the gentle sea breeze and the rhythmic sound of waves.

 

Day 14: Free Day in Puri

Spend the day at leisure on Puri’s pristine beaches.
Enjoy optional water sports activities, take a leisurely stroll along the shore, or simply relax and unwind in the tranquil surroundings. Puri’s golden sands and azure waters provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

 

Day 15: Departure from Delhi

After breakfast, transfer to Bhubaneshwar airport for your flight back to Delhi.
Upon arrival in Delhi, board your onward flight, taking with you cherished memories of India’s diverse culture, rich heritage, and warm hospitality.

- Assistance on arrival at airport.

- 14 Nights' accommodation in selected price category hotels.

- Daily breakfast at hotels.

- Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

- English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.

- Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.

- Bottled drinking water in car.

- Government taxes.

 

Hotels used or similar for 14 nights accommodation

Delhi x 2 nights
3* - Madhuban Hotel/ Emarald Hotel
4* - The Royal Plaza/ Country Inn & Suite Saket
5* - Le Meridien/ The Claridges

Agra x 1 night
3* - Howard Plaza the Fern/ Atulyaa Taj
4* - Radission Hotel/ Crystal Sarovar Premier
5* - Trident Hotel/ Courtyard by Marriott

Orchha x 1 night
3* & 4* - Orchha Resort/ Amar Mahal 
5* - Orchha Palace and Convention Centre x 1 night

Khajuraho x 1 night
3* - Ramada/Clarks Hotel
4* - Radisson Hotel/ Hotel Chandela
5* - The Lalit Temple View

Varanasi x 2 nights
3* - Meraden Grand/ Amaya Hotel
4* - Rivatas by Ideal/ Palace On Ganges
5* - Radisson Hotel/ Gateway Hotel Taj

Bodhgaya x 1 night
3* - Hotel Taj Darbar/ Hotel Mahamaya
4* & 5* - The Royal  Residency/ Lotus Nikko Hotel

Kolkata x 2 nights
3* - Regenta Orko's/ The Fern Residency
4* - The Peerless Inn/ The Fern Residency
5* - ITC Sonar, a Luxury Collection/ The Lalit Great Eastern

Bhubaneswar x 1 nights
3* - Kalinga Ashok/ The HHI
4* - Fortune Park Sishmo/ Mayfair Convention
5* - Mayfair Lagoon/ Trident Hotel

Puri x 3 nights
3* - Toshali Sands/ Blue Lily Beach Resort
4* - The Hans Coco Palms/ The Chariot Resort & spa
5* - Mayfair Waves

- Khajuraho - Varanasi, Patna - Kolkata - Bhubaneswar - Delhi flight fare approx ?20500 per person in economy class.

- Camera charges at monuments if any.

- Meals other than mentioned in inclusions.

- Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc. 

- Gratuities and optional activities.

- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.