Tour highlights:

Destinations	Highlights
Delhi	Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Vibrant market – Chandni Chowk, Rickshaw ride, Walk through the Sis Ganj Gurudwara, Drive pass to India Gate and President House, Qutab Minar, Lotus temple and Akshardham temple
Varanasi	Sarnath – A land of Buddha, Rickshaw ride, Ganga Aarti (Prayer), Morning boat ride, Mahashamstana’, the great cremation ground of Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath temple, Benaras Hindu University and Bharat Mata temple.
Khajurajo & Orchha	Western and eastern temple complex, Orchha Fort, Chaturbhuj Temple and Chhatris
Agra	Taj Mahal,  Tanga ride, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Bharatpur and Abhaneri (En route to Jaipur)
Jaipur	Amber fort, Elephant ride, City Palace, Jantar-Mantar (Observatory), Hawa Mahal (Palace of winds), Birla temple Johri Bazaar (Market)
Samode	Samode Village (En-route to Delhi)

Day 01 / Saturday: Arrive Delhi 

Namaste! Welcome to India!

Upon your arrival at Delhi International Airport T3, a Kuber Tours representative will be there to greet you at the arrival lounge and safely transfer you to your hotel.

Typically, the standard hotel check-in time is around 12:00 in the afternoon. Your first day is free, with no scheduled activities. However, if you arrive during the daytime, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the area around your hotel at your own pace.

Overnight stay

Day 02 / Sunday: Delhi sightseeing 

Delhi, a captivating fusion of tradition and modernity, boasts a bustling cityscape with over 10 million vehicles navigating its streets. Our day starts promptly at 7:30 am with a visit to the iconic Red Fort (Lal Quila), an architectural masterpiece constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1638. Just across the road, the grandeur of Jama Masjid awaits your exploration, where you’ll marvel at the work of around 5,000 anonymous artisans who crafted these splendid structures.

Your journey continues with a delightful rickshaw ride through the vibrant markets of Chandni Chowk and a visit to Sis Ganj Sahib Gurdwara, a significant Sikh temple. By afternoon, you’ll transition to Lutyen’s Delhi, passing by India Gate, a monument built in 1931 to pay homage to Indian soldiers who served in World War I and the Afghan Wars. As you proceed, you’ll catch a glimpse of the President’s House, formerly known as the Viceroy’s House during British rule.

After relishing delicious Indian cuisine, your adventure takes you to the historic Qutab Minar, a five-story victory tower built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din-Aibak, the founder of the Slave Dynasty.

Next, the Lotus Temple, a symbol of inclusivity, awaits. It welcomes people of all backgrounds and beliefs, and you’ll take a stroll of about 500 meters to explore its extensive complex.

To wrap up your Delhi tour, you’ll visit the Akshardham Temple, a magnificent Hindu complex showcasing centuries of Hinduism, Indian culture, and spirituality (closed on Mondays).

Overnight stay 

Day 03 / Monday: Delhi – Varanasi (Flight) (KEEP 2 NIGHTS STAY IN VARANASI)

After breakfast, you’ll head to the airport for your flight to Varanasi, an ancient and sacred city with names like Benaras and Kashi. Varanasi is a unique and spiritual experience known for its labyrinthine lanes, chanting monks, illuminated ghats along the Ganges, and a constant stream of people seeking the meaning of life. This cultural and learning center of northern India is intricately connected to the Ganges, renowned for its silk weavers, exceptional musicians, and its role as “The Great Cremation Grounds.” Varanasi encapsulates the profound cycle of life and death, and it’s where Buddhism is said to have originated with Buddha’s first sermon around 528 BC. In Varanasi, you don’t merely visit, you deeply experience, interact, and connect with the culture and traditions, making it an ideal place to seek life’s lessons.

Upon your arrival in Varanasi, you’ll be greeted by a local tour guide who will accompany you for the next two days. Your first stop will be Sarnath and its Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Ashoka Pillar, which miraculously survived and serves as the National Emblem of India and a symbol on the Indian flag. Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, imparting essential principles of Buddhism like the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the Middle Way philosophy. Buddha encouraged his followers to avoid extremes of austerity or indulgence. The ancient monasteries dating back to the 5th century BC bear witness to a thriving monastic community. In Sarnath, you’ll also witness the Stupas and Bodhi trees, grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya, along with various temples established by countries like Thailand, Japan, Sri Lanka, and more.

Following your visit to Sarnath, you’ll head to your hotel for some relaxation and refreshment before embarking on a unique experience: the Ganga Aarti. 

In the evening, you’ll make your way to one of the city’s most extraordinary events by navigating the narrow lanes, where vehicles are not permitted. You can enjoy a rickshaw ride to reach the riverbank and then walk about 600-700 meters to board your boat for an up-close view of the Aarti ceremony. This sacred ritual, performed by a group of priests with brass lamps and accompanied by fervent chants in the midst of a large crowd, will create unforgettable and deeply spiritual moments, momentarily transcending the self.

After the Ganga Aarti, you will make your way back to your hotel through the same narrow lanes, once again enjoying a rickshaw ride.

Overnight stay

Day 04 / Tuesday: Varanasi – Khajuraho (Flight)

Early in the morning, before sunrise, you will rise and embark on a boat ride along the Ganges River. Your journey will take you from Assi Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat, which happens to be the largest cremation ground. The beauty of Benaras at dawn is unparalleled, with the river’s banks teeming with life as people bathe, chant mantras, perform rituals, and offer their prayers to the deities.

Your boat ride will conclude at Manikarnika Ghat, where you’ll explore the city of both learning and cremation, known as ‘Mahashamstana’—the great cremation ground of Lord Shiva. Here, you’ll transition from the world of the living to the realm of the departed and may even encounter a somber, black-clad Aghor Ashram sadhu (priest) who will impart wisdom on breaking free from the cycle of birth and rebirth. If time allows, you’ll also visit the traditional homes of the dome community, who oversee the cremations.

After breakfast, your next stop is Banaras Hindu University, an eminent center of learning in India. You will also visit the Bharat Mata Temple before heading to the airport for your flight to Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage site in India.

 Upon arrival at Khajuraho airport, you will be transferred to your hotel.

Day 05 / Wednesday: Khajuraho – Orchha – Jhansi – Agra (Train Shatabdi express 17.30-20.30 Hrs.)

In a remote village known as Khajuraho, an art form comes to life, initially recognized for its erotic sculptures inspired by the Kamasutra. However, it’s important to note that over 90% of the artwork in Khajuraho reflects aspects of our daily lives, while the remaining sculptures also delve into the nuances of family life during that era. Each sculpture is exquisitely crafted and thoughtfully placed within the stones, showcasing the mesmerizing expressiveness of ancient Indian art from the 10th and 11th centuries. In the span of a century, between 950 and 1050, the Chandela Dynasty erected around 85 temples, yet many of these were sadly destroyed by Muslim rulers in the 13th century, leaving just 22 temples standing today. What’s truly remarkable is that these temples were constructed simultaneously, with dedications to both Hinduism and Jainism, demonstrating respect and acceptance for diverse religions.

These temples are divided into three main groups: the eastern group, the southern group, and the western group, each located within a 3-4 km radius of one another, making it possible to explore them in 3-4 hours. Given the spread of the temple compounds, expect some pleasant long walks. If your visit coincides with February, you may even have the chance to participate in the Khajuraho dance festival.

As the day progresses, you will journey to the Jhansi railway station to catch a train to Agra, with a stopover at the Orchha Fort. Orchha, a 15th-century town nestled amid lush greenery atop a hill and along the banks of the River Betwa, boasts rich historical significance. Orchha was founded by Maharaja Rudra Pratap Singh and is often described as a hidden gem. The Orchha Fort comprises various palaces, including the Jahangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, and Rai Parveen Mahal. The town is also adorned with several temples such as the Chaturbhuj Temple, Laxmi Narayan Temple, and Ram Raja Temple, known for their world-class mural paintings on the walls. Chhatris, or elevated dome-shaped pavilions, were constructed to honor the contributions of past rulers.

Following your visit to Orchha, you’ll make your way to the railway station, which is conveniently located about a 45-minute drive away, to catch a train to Agra. Agra, once the capital city during the Mughal era, is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and the iconic Taj Mahal. 

Upon your arrival in Agra, our representative will be there to assist you and ensure a smooth check-in at your hotel.

Overnight stay 

Day 06 / Thursday: Agra sightseeing 

Your day will start with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays), a time when the golden rays of the sun work their enchantment on the white marble dome, making it even more magnificent. The entrance gate to the Taj Mahal opens at sunrise, and there’s usually a long queue in the morning, so it’s advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise to ensure you get the best view of this iconic monument. Note that during December and January, thick fog may obscure the sunrise view. Inside the Taj Mahal complex, you’re only allowed to carry your passport and camera; no other items, not even water, are permitted. The parking area is situated approximately one kilometer from the monument, and from there, you can opt for a leisurely walk, a Tanga ride, or take a Battery bus. Exploring the vast Taj Mahal complex usually takes around two hours.

After a satisfying breakfast at your hotel, your next stop is the 11th-century Agra Fort, a renowned walled city and one of India’s most magnificent forts. The Mughals, who once made Agra their capital, significantly influenced the architecture of this fort. Each Mughal emperor left their mark on the fort’s design, decorating it to their liking. It’s worth noting that around 75% of the fort is off-limits to tourists due to its military use, and even the open portion is vast, so be prepared for some lengthy walks.

In the evening, you’ll return to Agra Fort to witness the “Light and Sound Show,” a captivating portrayal of the love story between Shah Jahan and his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This dramatized event is so beautifully presented that you won’t want to take your eyes off it.

Overnight stay 

Day 07 / Friday: Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Bharatpur – Abhaneri – Jaipur (250 km / 5 Hrs.)

This day promises to be a full and eventful one, with three en route sightseeing stops, so it’s advisable to start your day with an early breakfast. Your first destination is Fatehpur Sikri, located approximately 40 km from Agra, although it may take over an hour to reach due to congested roads. While on your way, please be cautious of persistent hawkers attempting to sell their wares or guide you to their shops. It’s best to stick with your tour guide. Fatehpur Sikri, a fort constructed on the guidance of the Sufi Saint Salim Chisti and once serving as the capital, eventually reverted to Agra as the capital due to water scarcity in Fatehpur Sikri.

Your next stop is Bharatpur, renowned for one of India’s most exceptional bird sanctuaries, the UNESCO-listed Keoladeo Ghana National Park, situated around 25 km from Fatehpur Sikri. You’ll have the option of exploring the park by bicycle, human-pulled rickshaw, or Tanga, based on your interests and preferences. Local park naturalists will be on hand to guide you along the narrow paths within the jungle and provide insights about the birdlife.

Lunch can be enjoyed at one of the roadside restaurants. While they may not offer high-end dining, they do serve authentic and hygienic Indian cuisine. Following this, your journey continues to Abhaneri, a village located en route to Jaipur (approximately 8-10 km diversion). Abhaneri is renowned for its 9th-century step wells, known as Chand Baori, and the Harshad Mata Temple. It’s best to reach Abhaneri before sunset, allowing about 20-25 minutes for exploration. 

Afterward, you’ll head to Jaipur to conclude the day’s travels.

Overnight stay 

Day 08 / Saturday: Jaipur sightseeing 

Your Jaipur city tour is a full-day adventure that commences with a visit to the magnificent Amber Fort, situated atop a hill. This iconic tourist attraction boasts an exquisite blend of Hindu architecture and was constructed by Raja Man Singh in 1592. A notable feature here is the Elephant Ride, providing several opportunities for memorable photos. The fort encompasses grand gates, cobbled pathways, imposing ramparts, intricately designed temples, and exquisite paintings. Inside the fort, you’ll discover ‘Diwan-e-Khas,’ ‘Diwan-e-Aam,’ Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Niwas, and Jai Mandir, offering a glimpse into the regal lives of the Rajput Maharajas who once resided within its walls.

Continuing your journey, you’ll pass by the iconic Hawa Mahal, also known as the “Palace of Winds.” This five-story architectural marvel, adorned with ornate Jharokhas (small windows), allowed royal women to observe public festivities discreetly. Its unique design is truly mesmerizing, so be sure to have your camera ready to capture its exquisite beauty.

Your next destination is the City Palace, established in 1732 by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II. This palace served as the seat of power for the mighty Maharajas of Jaipur. You’ll be captivated by its impressive courtyards, grand buildings, and meticulously maintained gardens. In close proximity to the City Palace lies the renowned Jantar Mantar, an observatory housing 19 astronomical instruments dating back to the era of Rajput King Sawai Jai Singh. This UNESCO World Heritage site is globally acclaimed for its sundial and other astronomical marvels.

After a satisfying lunch, you’ll explore one of the local markets, choosing from several vibrant options like Johari Bazaar, Tripola Market, or Bapu Bazaar. Your tour will conclude with a visit to Birla Mandir, a resplendent temple also known as the Laxmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Crafted from pristine white marble, the temple showcases magnificent paintings that depict tales from mythological India. 

In the evening, you’ll return to your hotel, freshen up, and enjoy dinner along with a live Rajasthani dance performance (subject to operational status).

Overnight stay 

Day 09 / Sunday: Jaipur – Samode – Delhi (260 km 6 Hrs.)

After breakfast, we’ll drive back to Delhi with a stop in Samode, a village famous for the 475-year-old Samode Palace. This Indo-Saracenic architectural gem combines Indian and Mughal styles and has been transformed into a luxurious heritage hotel.

Upon your return to Delhi, our representative will be on hand to assist you with any last-minute shopping if desired. In the evening, we’ll arrange a farewell dinner to discuss your India tour experiences before bidding adieu. 

No accommodation will be provided in Delhi.

Day 10 / Monday: Depart Delhi 

As your tour comes to an end, Kuber Tours extends its heartfelt gratitude for your patronage and guarantees a timely transfer to the airport for your onward journey.