Welcome to Delhi, the capital of Modern India! Upon your arrival at Delhi airport, transfer to your hotel.

Delhi, a city with a rich history, offers a captivating blend of Old and New India. Its roots stretch through seven ancient cities, each dating from the 11th to the 20th centuries. Over the years, Delhi has witnessed the rise and fall of many great emperors, leaving many awe-inspiring monuments that testify to the grandeur and glory of bygone eras. The city boasts an unparalleled mix of architectural styles, making it a unique destination for travelers worldwide.

Accommodation: Vivanta by Taj Surajkund (Superior room)

Explore the grandeur of Old Delhi, once the Mughal capital. Visit Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, and take a charming cycle rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk's bustling lanes. See Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, and drive past Sansad Bhawan and Rashtrapati Bhawan. Capture the essence of India at India Gate, and marvel at the UNESCO-listed Humayun's Tomb. Conclude the day at the Qutab Complex, with its impressive Qutub Minar.

Accommodation: Vivanta by Taj Surajkund (Superior room)

After breakfast, we will fly to Varanasi, often called the 'eternal city' and one of India's most revered pilgrimage sites, along the sacred River Ganges. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Later in the afternoon, we embark on a guided Bengali Tola walk, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the riverside people in Varanasi. Stroll through Bengali Tola, known for its enchanting Mother Goddess Kali shrines, and the historic ritual bathing site called Dashaswamedh Ghat, where the ten-horse sacrifice takes place. As the day draws closer, we gather at Dasahwamedh Ghat to witness the mesmerizing illuminated aarti ceremony. Priests on a wooden stand near the water perform the ritual with Sanskrit mantras, cymbals, and drums. The river is worshipped with offerings of flowers, incense, sandalwood, milk, and vermilion. The enchanting ritual culminates with the raising and arching back of blazing camphor lamps and multiple-flamed aarti lamps, casting a golden glow on the dark waters of the Ganges. It is this sacred river that fills Varanasi with its profound spiritual aura.

Accommodation: Radisson Varanasi (Superior room)

Begin your day with a morning boat ride along the sacred Ganges River. Experience the spiritual significance of this holy waterway, revered by Hindus as the elixir of life, bestowing purity to the living and salvation to the departed. Witness the magical colors of the sunrise as you glide along the river, observing devotees performing their religious ablutions on the ghats, a truly extraordinary sight. You may also witness the solemnity of a traditional Hindu funeral pyre, an integral part of the final rites. After the boat ride, wander through the narrow streets of Varanasi, a labyrinthine maze dotted with over 2,000 temples and shrines. Behold the fascinating architecture of domes, pinnacles, towers, and ancient palaces that grace the river's left bank. The bustling streets exude vibrant colors, immersing you in the heart of Indian life. Varanasi, known as Kashi since the 7th century B.C., holds deep religious significance and offers a microcosm of Indian culture. Explore some of the city's significant temples, such as the Bharat Mata Mandir and the Durga Temple. Admire the beautiful Tulsi Manas Temple and stroll down Vishwanathji Ki Gali, an ancient alley adorned with stunning temples. The evening is at your leisure, allowing you to immerse yourself further in the spiritual ambiance of Varanasi or to relax and reflect on the captivating experiences of the day.

Accommodation: Radisson Varanasi (Superior room)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Khajuraho. The city is renowned for its remarkable temples, around 25 in total, showcasing various aspects of life, including the famous erotic carvings that have intrigued and fascinated visitors since their rediscovery by a British officer in 1838 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival in Khajuraho, transfer to your hotel. In the late evening, we will be treated to a captivating sound and light show, offering insights into this ancient city's fascinating history and cultural significance.

Accommodation: Radisson Jass (Deluxe room)

In the morning, explore the Western Group of Temples, a masterpiece of North Indian temple architecture. Khajuraho's temples, built between 950 and 1050 A.D. by the Chandela dynasty, boast a unique historical and architectural significance. Though renowned for their erotic depictions, these temples showcase many artistic and cultural treasures beyond these famed carvings. Afterward, we will drive to Jhansi with a stop at Orchha, a city that seems to have stood still in time. Orchha was founded in the 16th century by Rudra Pratap Singh, a Bundela chieftain, and features captivating remnants of its glorious past, including forts, palaces, and artistic wonders. The Jehangir Mahal, adorned with multiple tiers, was built in 1606 AD, while the Raj Mahal is renowned for its exquisite murals. Rai Praveen Mahal, situated in Anand Mahal's gardens, adds to the city's allure. Orchha's tall-spired temples, like the Ram Raja Temple and Laxmi Narain Temple, embellished with lively frescoes, are equally captivating. After an enriching sightseeing experience in Orchha, we continue to Jhansi railway station, boarding a train to Agra. Upon arrival in Agra, transfer to your hotel.

Accommodation: Taj View Agra (Superior room city view)

At the break of dawn, witness the extraordinary beauty of the Taj Mahal (closed on Friday). Marvel at its elegance and harmony, as it stands as one of the most remarkable buildings in the world. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1630 AD as a mausoleum for his beloved Queen Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal showcases the opulence of Mughal art through its magnificent architecture, garden design, painting, and calligraphy. After the awe-inspiring visit, return to the hotel for breakfast. The morning is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, explore the Agra Fort, a majestic stronghold that served as the seat of power for successive generations of Mughal Emperors, including Akbar, Shah Jehan, and Aurangzeb. The fort's inner buildings reflect an impressive blend of Persian (Islamic) and local Hindu architectural styles, representing the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. In the evening, head to Mehtab Bagh, offering a panoramic view of the Taj Mahal across the river during sunset, creating a magical and enchanting sight.

Accommodation: Taj View Agra (Superior room city view)

In the morning, we depart for Bharatpur. En route, we explore the fascinating deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri, an architectural wonder built by Emperor Akbar. Reflect on the enigma of this abandoned red sandstone capital, which was mysteriously deserted just a few years after its construction. Despite its "ruins," Fatehpur Sikri remains remarkably well-preserved, resembling a fairy tale city frozen in time. After the sightseeing, we continue to Bharatpur and then board a train to Sawai Madhopur. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Ranthambore. Once a hunting ground for the Maharaja of Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park was declared a game sanctuary in 1955 and later became a national park in 1980. Renowned for its tiger population, the park has successfully stabilized, if not increased, the number of tigers through dedicated conservation efforts. Here, tigers can be frequently spotted during the day, going about their natural activities of hunting and nurturing their young ones. Arriving in Ranthambore, check in to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Khem Vilas (Standard room)

Embark on an exhilarating day of game drives into Ranthambore National Park aboard a shared jeep. As you venture into the park's diverse landscape, you will encounter a series of high escarpments, lush forests, serene lakes, and dry scrublands. The park's enchanting setting is adorned with ancient forts and temples, adding to the atmosphere of wildlife and cultural exploration. Be captivated by the rich biodiversity, as the park teems with various bird species and mammals, including the majestic tigers Ranthambore is renowned for. Immerse yourself in the history of the Rajput rulers and experience the essence of Rajasthani culture amidst this picturesque backdrop.

Accommodation: Khem Vilas (Standard room)

After a delightful time in Ranthambore, we depart for Jaipur, the captivating capital of Rajasthan province. Jaipur's old town is a magnificent blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural marvels known for its vibrant arts and crafts, exquisite jewelry, hand-painted fabrics, and intricately carved stone sculptures. We visit the ancient Hindu Birla Temple in the evening to witness the Aarti (Prayer) ceremony. This soul-stirring ritual involves showing reverence to the divine through invocations, prayers, songs, and rituals. For devotees, it represents a profound spiritual connection with the divine, often facilitated through sacred objects like elements of nature, sculptures, vessels, paintings, or prints. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check in to the hotel and prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, rich heritage, and grandeur of the Pink City.

Accommodation: Hilton Jaipur (Hilton guest room)

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a fascinating journey to Amer Fort, perched atop a hill that beautifully blends Hindu and Mughal architectural styles, radiating aesthetic charm. Constructed in the 17th century by Jaipur's Maharaja Man Singh, the fort was once the capital of the ruling Rajput clan, Kachhawa of Amber, before moving to Jaipur. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the City Palace, an opulent complex within the fortified area of the original city. Stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, featuring its famous five-tiered wedding-cake facade. Initially built for the court harem to discreetly observe processions and street life below, the Hawa Mahal's lacy grillwork-covered windows offer a unique glimpse into Jaipur's vibrant culture. Next, visit the adjacent Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh II, who was not only a Maharajah but also a scientist and astronomer. Conclude the tour with a captivating walk through the old city, offering an authentic glimpse into the city's rich artistic heritage.

Accommodation: Hilton Jaipur (Hilton guest room)

After a leisurely breakfast, your remarkable journey concludes today with a transfer to the Delhi Airport for your international flight back home.