5 (3)
New Delhi
Classic North India Tour: Delhi to Varanasi Adventure
14400
Overview
The Indian Dream Tour - Classic North India invites travelers to explore the captivating highlights of northern India, from Delhi to Varanasi. This all-inclusive adventure showcases the Mughal splendors of Agra and Delhi, the vibrant 'Pink City' of Jaipur, the spiritual ambience of Varanasi, and the erotic sculptures of Khajuraho.
This tour offers a wonderful introduction to India's magic, covering lavish palaces, bustling bazaars, ancient temple carvings, and the iconic Taj Mahal. Expect to be enchanted by the blend of historical sites and cultural experiences. Key stops include Delhi, Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad), Rajghat, Colonial Delhi, Taj Mahal, Agra, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Abhaneri Stepwell, Amber Fort, City Palace, Jaipur, Jantar Mantar, Jaipur, Varanasi & Sarnath, Ganga Aarti, Varanasi, Ganges River, Varanasi, Allahabad (Prayagraj), Anand Bhawan, Allahabad, Khusro Bagh, Allahabad, Khajuraho, Khajuraho Temples, Orchha, and Gwalior.
The tour includes accommodations, transportation, expert guides, and monument entrance fees, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Guests will enjoy a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk Market in Delhi, visit the Taj Mahal (the monument of love), explore the Abhaneri Stepwell (an 8th-century architectural marvel), and experience an elephant ride at Amber Fort. Varanasi offers a unique blend of spirituality and belief on the banks of the holy River Ganga. This is a multi-day cultural tour of India in a small group setting. 
Highlights
Explore Delhi's Bustling Streets: Take a rickshaw ride through the vibrant Chandni Chowk market.
Witness the Taj Mahal's Beauty: Visit the iconic Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love.
Discover Ancient Architecture: Explore the Abhaneri Stepwell, an 8th-century marvel.
Experience Jaipur Like Royalty: Enjoy an elephant ride at the majestic Amber Fort.
Spiritual Varanasi: Witness the spiritual rituals along the banks of the Ganges River.
All-Inclusive Convenience: Enjoy hotels, transport, guides, and monument fees all included.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally love this tour, especially the guides and variety of sights. The pace can be quick, but overall it's a memorable experience.
The tour guides are very knowledgeable and provide great historical context.
The itinerary covers a wide range of significant cultural and historical sites.
The included transportation is comfortable and makes travel between cities easy.
The accommodations are generally well-received and provide a comfortable stay.
Some travelers found the pace to be quite fast, with early morning starts.
A few reviewers mentioned that the shopping experiences can feel tourist-focused.
The Journey
Delhi
Begin your Indian adventure in Delhi, a city where ancient history and modern life intertwine. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted and escorted to your hotel for check-in. Later, delve into the heart of Delhi with visits to iconic landmarks like Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing intricate Indo-Islamic architecture. Explore the vibrant streets of Old Delhi, also known as Shahjahanabad, and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque. Take a memorable rickshaw ride through the narrow alleys of Chandni Chowk, a historic marketplace brimming with sights, sounds, and flavors. Pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, his memorial, and drive past the colonial-era monuments like Parliament House, President's House, and India Gate, reflecting India's rich political history.
Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad)
Step back in time as you explore Old Delhi, also known as Shahjahanabad, the historic walled city of Delhi established by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The main attraction is the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, capable of accommodating up to 20,000 worshippers. Experience the vibrant chaos of Chandni Chowk, a bustling marketplace, by taking a rickshaw ride through its narrow, winding lanes. Immerse yourself in the sensory overload of spices, street food, and traditional crafts, and witness the enduring legacy of Mughal-era architecture and culture.
Rajghat
Visit Rajghat, the serene memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, this simple black marble platform marks the site of Gandhi's cremation. Pay your respects to the leader who championed non-violent resistance and played a pivotal role in India's independence movement. The peaceful ambiance of Rajghat provides a space for reflection on Gandhi's enduring legacy of peace and social justice.
Colonial Delhi
Embark on a drive through Colonial Delhi, where the architectural grandeur of British rule comes to life. Admire the imposing Parliament House, the President’s House (Rashtrapati Bhavan), and India Gate, a war memorial. Experience the legacy of British architecture and governance in the heart of India's capital. These iconic landmarks stand as testaments to India's colonial past and its journey to independence.
Taj Mahal, Agra
Journey to Agra to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Taj Mahal, an enduring symbol of love and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this ivory-white marble mausoleum is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. Marvel at its intricate details, symmetrical design, and the ethereal glow it emanates at sunrise and sunset. The Taj Mahal stands as a testament to eternal love and artistic brilliance.
Agra Fort
Explore Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a formidable red sandstone fortress along the banks of the Yamuna River. Built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, the fort served as the main residence of the Mughal rulers for generations. Wander through its impressive gates, palaces, and courtyards, each reflecting the grandeur of Mughal architecture. Enjoy panoramic views of the Taj Mahal from within the fort, providing a unique perspective on this iconic monument.
Fatehpur Sikri
En route to Jaipur, discover the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage site built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. This red sandstone city was abandoned shortly after its construction due to water scarcity, but its architectural splendor remains remarkably well-preserved. Explore its palaces, mosques, and courtyards, and imagine the vibrant life that once thrived within its walls. Fatehpur Sikri offers a captivating glimpse into Mughal-era artistry and urban planning.
Abhaneri Stepwell
Make a stop at Abhaneri to marvel at the Chand Baori, one of India's largest and most spectacular stepwells. Built in the 9th century, this ancient reservoir features thousands of precisely arranged steps descending into the earth. Admire the intricate geometric patterns and the ingenious engineering that allowed the stepwell to store water and provide relief from the scorching heat. This architectural marvel is a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Indian civilization.
Amber Fort
Embark on a morning excursion to Amber Fort, a majestic fortress perched atop a hill near Jaipur. Ascend to the fort on an elephant or by jeep and explore its opulent palaces, courtyards, and halls adorned with intricate carvings and mirror work. Admire the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and learn about the fort's rich history as the former residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. En route, capture a memorable photo of the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), an iconic landmark known for its intricate facade and latticed windows.
City Palace, Jaipur
Visit the City Palace in Jaipur, a sprawling complex of palaces, gardens, and courtyards that showcases the city's royal heritage. Explore the various museums within the palace, including the textile museum, which houses a remarkable collection of royal attire and fabrics. Admire the intricate architecture and artwork that adorn the palace walls, reflecting the grandeur of Jaipur's royal past.
Jantar Mantar, Jaipur
Explore the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in the 18th century. This UNESCO World Heritage site features a collection of massive astronomical instruments designed to measure time, track celestial bodies, and predict eclipses. Marvel at the ingenuity and precision of these instruments, which demonstrate the advanced scientific knowledge of the time. The centerpiece of the observatory is the Samrat Yantra, a giant sundial that provides accurate time readings.
Varanasi & Sarnath
Take a flight to Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world and a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus. Upon arrival, begin your exploration of this spiritual city, situated on the banks of the holy Ganges River. In the afternoon, journey to Sarnath, a revered Buddhist site where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the ruins of ancient monasteries and stupas, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this significant religious site. Varanasi is known as the "city of life", which, according to legend, was founded by Shiva.
Ganga Aarti, Varanasi
In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony on the ghats (riverfront steps) of Varanasi. As the sun sets, priests perform elaborate rituals, waving lamps, chanting mantras, and offering prayers to the holy Ganges River. The atmosphere is filled with devotion and spiritual energy, creating an unforgettable experience. The Ganga Aarti is a celebration of the river's life-giving properties and its significance in Hindu cosmology.
Ganges River, Varanasi
Wake up before dawn for a boat ride on the Ganges River, a quintessential Varanasi experience. Witness the sunrise over the ghats as devotees immerse themselves in the holy waters, performing rituals and offering prayers. Observe the cremation ceremonies taking place at the burning ghats, a reminder of the cycle of life and death. The boat ride offers a unique perspective on the city's spiritual essence and the daily life along the riverbanks.
Allahabad (Prayagraj)
Transfer to Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj, a city of great historical and religious significance. Visit Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. This sacred site is a major pilgrimage destination, especially during the Kumbh Mela, the world's largest religious gathering. Experience the spiritual energy of the Sangam and witness the rituals performed by devotees.
Anand Bhawan, Allahabad
Explore Anand Bhawan, the ancestral home of the Nehru-Gandhi family, which has been converted into a museum. Learn about the history of India's independence movement and the contributions of the Nehru family, including Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that offer insights into the life and times of this influential family.
Khusro Bagh, Allahabad
Visit Khusro Bagh, a historical garden that houses the tombs of Prince Khusro, the eldest son of Emperor Jahangir, and his mother, Shah Begum. Admire the Mughal-era architecture of the tombs and the serene ambiance of the gardens. The complex provides a glimpse into the lives and legacies of the Mughal dynasty and their internal conflicts.
Khajuraho
Transfer to Khajuraho, a small town renowned for its ancient temples adorned with intricate erotic sculptures. Check into your hotel and spend time relaxing or exploring the local area. Khajuraho's temples are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the Chandela dynasty. Overnight in Khajuraho.
Khajuraho Temples
Embark on a tour of the Khajuraho Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its exquisite sculptures and intricate architecture. Explore the western group of temples, dedicated to Hindu deities and known for their erotic art, reflecting the tantric traditions of the time. Visit the eastern group of temples, dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, and learn about Jainism. These temples offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of ancient India.
Orchha
Journey to Orchha, a former feudal state of Bundelkhand, known for its majestic palaces and temples. Visit the Jahangir Mahal, a grand palace built in the 16th century to honor the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Explore the other monuments and temples in Orchha, admiring their intricate architecture and vibrant colors. The town offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of the Bundela Rajputs.
Gwalior
Visit Gwalior, a city known for its rich heritage and cultural significance. Explore the imposing Gwalior Fort, perched atop a hill and offering panoramic views of the city. Admire the Hindu architecture and the ancient temples near the fort. Stop at Gopachal Parvat to see the giant statues of Jain saints carved into the rock. Gwalior Fort has been controlled by many different rulers throughout its history, and is known for being one of the most impenetrable forts in India.
Know Before You Go
This all-inclusive tour covers all taxes, parking, tolls, and driver expenses. Local assistance is provided, along with daily breakfast and accommodation on a twin-sharing basis with a bed & breakfast plan. Transfers and sightseeing are included as per the itinerary in an air-conditioned vehicle. Two bottles of water are provided per person per day, and local English-speaking guides will assist during sightseeing. This tour excludes flights, visa & insurance, tips, personal expenses, additional visits, extra vehicle use, and anything not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions & itinerary.
Hot Tip
To make the most of the trip, be prepared for early starts and long days of sightseeing. Pack comfortable shoes for walking, and consider bringing earplugs for quieter sleep. Bargaining is common in markets, so don't be afraid to negotiate prices. Also, stay hydrated and be mindful of food choices to avoid stomach issues.
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