12 Days: Delhi, Varanasi, Sarnath, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Jaipur, Udaipur

Tour overview:

The spiritual splendor of India unfolds as you explore the historic and cultural jewels of this diverse and colorful nation. Sunrise over the Ganges, sunrise at the Taj Mahal, and a ride to a fabled mountain fortress. You will experience the magic of India accommodated in comfort and style.

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Day 1 - Arrive Delhi

Arrive today in India’s capital city of Delhi. You are greeted with a traditional Indian welcome and escorted to your hotel.

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Day 2 - Delhi

After a leisurely morning, start your afternoon tour of Old Delhi. Among your stops are the Red Fort (Drive-By), Raj Ghat and the mile-long Chandni Chowk bazaar. Welcome dinner at the hotel. (BD)

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Day 3 - Delhi Sightseeing

This morning tour New Delhi – drive along Rajpath to view the Parliament House, the President’s House and India Gate. Visit the Humayun’s Tomb, Qutab Minar and Birla Temple. Afternoon is at leisure. (B)

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Day 4 - Delhi / Varanasi / Sarnath

Today you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight bound for Varanasi (India’s holiest city), located on the sacred Ganges River. Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon visit the stupas, ruins and museum at Sarnath, scene of Buddha’s first sermon. In the evening proceed to the ghats in cycle rickshaws to witness the evening aarti ceremony. (B)

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Day 5 - Varanasi / Khajuraho

In the early morning, enjoy the sunrise on the Ganges River with a boat ride followed by a walking tour of the old city. Later fly to Khajuraho, capital of the 9th to 13th century Chandela Dynasty. Upon arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel. Visit the Western group of temples containing the largest and loveliest temples, including KandariyaMahadev (representing Chandela art at its best). (B)

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Day 6 - Khajuraho / Agra

This morning, visit the principal Eastern group of temples, modest and less ornate than the Western Group. These temples reflect the simplicity inherent in Jainism. Later, drive to Jhansi to board the train to Agra, en route visiting Orcha, a medieval city frozen in time and space, existing to this day as it must have in the 17th century. Upon arrival you are met and transferred to your hotel. (B)

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Day 7 - Agra

Enjoy an early morning visit of the magnificent Taj Mahal for a sunrise view. After breakfast visit the Agra Fort and the city. The rest of the day is at leisure. In the evening, visit the magnificent Taj Mahal once again and witness the transformation as the monument reflects the warm glow of the sunset. (B)

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Day 8 - Agra / Fatehpur Sikri / Jaipur

After breakfast drive to Jaipur, en route visiting the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. (B)

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Day 9 - Amber Fort Excursion / Jaipur Sightseeing

Visit the mountain fortress of Amber, a superb example of Rajput architecture with its complex of palaces, temples, and ornate apartments. Later, enjoy a tour of Jaipur City, visiting Hawa Mahal or the ‘Palace of Winds,’ City Palace and the ancient observatory. (B)

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Day 10 - Jaipur / Udaipur

Drive this morning to Udaipur. On your arrival in Udaipur, check-in at your hotel. In the evening, take a sunset cruise by motor boat on Lake Pichola. (B)

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Day 11 - Udaipur

In the morning, tour this famous City of Lakes, known as one of the most picturesque and romantic cities of India and maybe the world. Visit City Palace, Saheliyonki Bari or Garden of Maids and the folklore museum where you can see a presentation of the string puppets typical to this area. Today’s afternoon excursion brings you to the beautifully sculpted Eklingji temple. Eklingji is famous for its 108 temple complex, built on a shore of a lake. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple complex of Eklingji was built in 728AD. The main temple is made of white marble and the icon of Lord Shiva is made of black marble. Later, visit Nagdatemple which dates back to the 10th century. The term ‘Sas-Bahu’ suggests ‘Mother-in-law and Daughter-in-law’ respectively. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner. (BD)

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Day 12 - Udaipur / Delhi / Depart

Morning at leisure. In the afternoon, fly to Delhi where you will have a room for a few hours to freshen up and change. This evening, transfer to the international airport for your flight home. (B)

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