Delhi - Mandawa - Bikaner - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur - Udaipur - Jaipur - Pushkar - Agra - Orcha - Khajuraho - Varanasi - Delhi
Duration
20 Nights / 21 DaysType
Spiritual & Cultural TourGroup Size:
10Languages
EnglishThis extensive 21-days journey takes you through the heart of India, from the bustling streets of Delhi to the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi, while covering Rajasthan’s vibrant cities and historical marvels. Visit Mandawa, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaipur, Pushkar, and Agra, exploring their majestic forts, palaces, and temples. Continue your adventure to Orchha, Khajuraho, and Varanasi, with their rich cultural and religious heritage, creating a diverse and unforgettable experience. This tour offers a blend of history, culture, architecture, spirituality, and natural beauty.
Your journey begins as you arrive in Delhi, the bustling capital city of India. Delhi is a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity, and it will be the gateway to your journey across India. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. You can spend the rest of the day at leisure, resting after your long journey. If you wish, you can take a brief evening walk to explore nearby attractions like India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, or the bustling streets of Connaught Place. Overnight stay in Delhi.
After a hearty breakfast, your full-day sightseeing tour of Delhi begins. You will explore both Old Delhi and New Delhi, each offering its unique charm and historical significance. Start with a visit to the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to India’s Mughal era. Next, you’ll head to the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. A rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk will immerse you in the traditional shopping area of Old Delhi, where you can shop for local handicrafts, spices, and street food. In New Delhi, you will visit Rajghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, and enjoy a drive past the President’s House, India Gate, and other important landmarks. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, the beautiful tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun, which is a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Conclude the day with a visit to the Lotus Temple, known for its unique lotus-shaped architecture. The last stop will be Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, travel to Mandawa, a small town in Rajasthan that is part of the Shekhawati region. Mandawa is known for its beautifully decorated havelis (traditional merchant houses), which are covered in intricate frescoes and murals. Upon arrival, explore the town and its grand havelis, such as Murmuria Haveli and Chokhani Haveli, which showcase local art and culture. Take a walk through the narrow lanes of Mandawa, where you will find an array of stunning architecture, including temples and castles. Overnight stay in Mandawa.
Today, you will head to Bikaner, another historic city in Rajasthan. Bikaner is renowned for its Junagarh Fort, a magnificent structure built in the 16th century that houses a rich collection of art and royal artifacts. You will also visit Lalgarh Palace, an architectural marvel that blends Rajput and Mughal styles. Another notable attraction in Bikaner is the Camel Breeding Farm, where you can learn about the history and importance of camels in Rajasthan. The evening is free to explore the bustling markets of Bikaner. Overnight stay in Bikaner.
Travel to Jaisalmer, often referred to as the “Golden City” due to its golden-hued sandstone architecture. The evening will be dedicated to a camel ride in Sam Desert, where you can enjoy the unique desert landscape and watch a beautiful sunset. Jaisalmer’s architecture, including its Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, and Salim Singh ki Haveli, is a unique blend of Rajput and Mughal influences. Stay overnight in Jaisalmer, which offers a vibrant cultural experience amidst the Thar Desert.
Spend the day exploring the spectacular Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila (Golden Fort). The fort is one of the largest living forts in the world and houses temples, palaces, and intricate carvings. Continue to explore the Patwon Ki Haveli, a collection of five havelis built by a wealthy merchant. Visit Nathmal Ki Haveli, another architectural gem known for its intricate stonework and craftsmanship. In the afternoon, visit Gadisar Lake, where you can enjoy boat rides and observe the peaceful surroundings. Lastly, head to Bada Bagh, a series of royal cenotaphs offering panoramic views of the desert. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.
Leave for Jodhpur, also known as the “Blue City” due to the blue-painted houses around the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. Upon arrival, explore Mehrangarh Fort, which offers an insight into the history and culture of the Rajput rulers. Within the fort, visit the Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal, which house beautiful royal artifacts. You can also visit Jaswant Thada, a stunning marble cenotaph dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The evening can be spent exploring the bustling streets and local markets of Jodhpur, where you can shop for handicrafts, spices, and textiles. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.
Today, you will continue exploring Jodhpur’s many attractions. Visit the Umaid Public Gardens, a tranquil space surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful architecture. Explore the Mandore Gardens, home to numerous temples, cenotaphs, and gardens. You can also explore the local markets to shop for traditional handicrafts and textiles unique to the region. Enjoy a relaxed evening at one of Jodhpur’s rooftop restaurants, offering spectacular views of the fort. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.
Leave for Udaipur, the “City of Lakes,” today. On the way, stop at Ranakpur, renowned for its beautiful Jain Temples. The Ranakpur Jain Temple is one of the largest and most important in India, known for its exquisite marble architecture. Upon arrival in Udaipur, enjoy a boat ride on Pichola Lake, offering stunning views of the palaces and surrounding hills. You can visit Jag Mandir, an island palace, for more breathtaking views of Udaipur. Overnight stay in Udaipur.
Start your day with a visit to City Palace, a massive complex that houses several courtyards, gardens, and museums. The palace offers fantastic views of the city and its lakes. Afterward, visit Jagdish Temple, a 17th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. You will also visit Sahelion ki Bari, a beautiful garden with fountains, lotus pools, and marble pavilions, and Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir, a museum showcasing Rajasthan’s folk art and culture. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the charming city further or indulge in local shopping. Overnight stay in Udaipur.
Today, explore the “City of Lakes.” Visit the City Palace, Monsoon Palace, Jagdish Temple, Eklingji Temple, and take a scenic boat ride on Lake Pichola. Don’t miss the Sajjan Garh Palace, Saheliyon-ki-Bari, and Gulab Bagh.
Overnight stay in Udaipur.
Drive towards Pushkar, stopping at Ajmer to visit the famous Ajmer Sharif Dargah, a revered Sufi shrine dedicated to Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. Upon arrival in Pushkar, visit the Brahma Temple, one of the only temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. Pushkar is also famous for its peaceful ghats, where you can experience the tranquil beauty of the holy lake. The town has a spiritual aura, and you can enjoy a relaxing walk around its ghats and markets. Overnight stay in Pushkar.
After breakfast, head to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital city, also known as the Pink City for its pink-hued buildings. In the evening, you can visit the Birla Temple or explore the local markets in Jaipur. Enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Jaipur.
The highlight of your day will be a visit to Amber Fort, located on a hilltop. You can enjoy an elephant ride to the entrance of the fort, where you will explore its magnificent palace and courtyards. Continue your day with visits to the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), the Jantar Mantar (an astronomical observatory), and the City Palace, which houses a museum with royal artifacts. The evening is free to explore the vibrant markets of Jaipur, known for their textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts. Overnight stay in Jaipur.
On your way to Agra, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former Mughal capital. Explore the magnificent Buland Darwaza, the Jama Masjid, and Panch Mahal. Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel, and in the evening, visit the world-famous Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love. This beautiful white marble mausoleum, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Overnight stay in Agra.
Begin the day with a visit to the magnificent Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage site, followed by a visit to Itimad-ud-Daula, often called the “Baby Taj” due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal. Later, drive to Orchha, a historical town founded by the Bundela kings. Visit the Orchha Fort Complex, which includes the Jehangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, and Rai Parveen Mahal. These structures are renowned for their grandeur and intricate carvings. Overnight stay in Orchha.
After breakfast, visit the Chaturbhuj Temple and Raja Ram Temple in Orchha before heading to Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning temples. Check-in to your hotel upon arrival. Overnight stay in Khajuraho.
Khajuraho is known for its intricately carved temples with stunning sculptures depicting Hindu mythology, daily life, and sensual postures. Visit the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, the largest and most ornate temple in Khajuraho, as well as the Vishwanath Temple, Chitragupta Temple, and Lakshmana Temple. The temples here are renowned for their architectural beauty and the intricate carvings on their walls. Overnight stay in Khajuraho.
After breakfast, depart for Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world and a significant cultural hub of India. Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel. Overnight stay in Varanasi.
Today, explore Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India. Early in the morning, enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges River, where you will witness the mesmerizing sunrise and the daily rituals performed by devotees at the ghats. Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva. You can also visit the Sarnath archaeological site, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Evening witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Overnight stay in Varanasi.
Take a flight to Delhi today. After arriving in Delhi, enjoy some free time to explore the city further or shop for souvenirs. Overnight stay in Delhi.
On the last day of your tour, depending on your flight schedule, you can enjoy some final sightseeing or shopping before being transferred to the airport for your onward journey. The tour concludes here, with unforgettable memories of your journey through Rajasthan, Khajuraho, and Varanasi.