India's Golden Triangle and Varanasi

Departures & Pricing

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Arrive Delhi

   Be met on arrival at Delhi Airport and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to settle in at leisure. Tonight, indulge in a delectable culinary experience at your Welcome Dinner.

   Enhance Your Journey - VIP Meet and Greet and Fast-Track Assistance at the Airport

   Enjoy a hassle-free arrival at Delhi airport with a VIP meet and greet and fast-track assistance through immigration and customs.

2. 2

   Delhi, Varanasi

   This morning, board a flight to Varanasi. Discover one of the city’s defining highlights, the Ganges River, an integral pilgrimage site believed to have the power to wash away mortal sins. Renowned for its spiritual significance and long history, Varanasi echoes the essence of centuries past. Settle into your hotel before immersing yourself in your Insider Experience.

   Insider Experience - Aarti Prayer

   Experience an unforgettable Aarti, a prayer ceremony led by gurus at dusk on the banks of the Ganges River, revered for its holy waters. Immerse your senses in the scent of incense, rhythmic drumming and chanting, and watch as a sea of flowers and candles drifts downstream.

3. 3

   Varanasi

   Wake early to embark on a sunrise boat trip down the Ganges. Take in the serene spiritual ambience as the sacred river comes to life. Then, set out to explore Varanasi, home to more than a thousand temples and shrines. Wander through the old town with its narrow lanes, bustling markets and vibrant temples. Enter a traditional akhara to witness men practising a traditional form of wrestling known as kushti or pehlwani. After enjoying time at leisure, journey to the Sarnath. Learn about one of Buddhism’s most important sites and see where Lord Buddha is said to have preached his first sermon. Enjoy an Insider Experience as you head back to the hotel.

   Insider Experience - Visit a local Weavers Colony

   Be captivated by skilled handloom weavers as they create exquisite silk Banarasi saris in a local weavers’ colony.

   Enhance Your Journey - Varanasi Temple Tour

   Set out on a temple tour of Varanasi, beginning at the iconic Banaras Hindu University and its Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, showcasing rare art and archaeological treasures. Continue to the 18th-century Durga Temple and Tulsi Manas Temple, famed for its marble architecture and verses from the Ramcharitmanas. The tour concludes at the unique Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India.

   Enhance Your Journey - Varanasi Local Food Tour

   Traverse the winding lanes of the city, full of shops and spicy eateries, learning about the significance of gastronomy and the part it plays in Varanasi’s religion and culture. This tour guides you through the vibrant markets to locate remarkable eateries.

4. 4

   Varanasi, Delhi

   Enjoy a relaxing morning in Varanasi before your flight back to Delhi. Upon arrival, the remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Delhi at your own pace. Tonight, indulge in a delectable culinary experience at your Welcome Dinner.

5. 5

   Delhi

   This morning, embark on your immersive Insider Experience. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

   Insider Experience - Delhi Five Senses Tour

   Delve into Delhi’s rich tapestry of cultures and history as you experience the city through all five senses. Admire grand Mughal architecture, wander through ancient lanes and lively markets, and uncover the centuries of influence that have shaped the capital. Learn about the heritage of attar, a fragrant essential oil traditionally distilled from flowers, herbs, or woods. In the vibrant streets of Chandni Chowk, enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride and take in the contrast of Mughal legacy and modern-day hustle. For lunch savour authentic flavours, from aromatic curries to succulent kebabs. Visit a local non for profit organisation, enjoy a moving Gurbani experience at Delhi’s largest gurdwara, view the UNESCO site of Humayun's Tomb before driving past New Delhi’s iconic landmarks.

6. 6

   Delhi, Agra

   After an early breakfast, board the Gatimaan Express to Agra. On arrival, visit Itmad‑ud‑Daulah, the exquisite mausoleum of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, grandfather of Mumtaz Mahal, in whose honour the Taj Mahal was later built. Admire the mausoleum’s delicate marble inlay and finely carved surfaces, and discover why it is often regarded as a precursor to the Taj Mahal’s architectural brilliance. After settling into your accommodation, head out for a tour of Agra Fort, situated at the bend of the Yamuna River. Then, catch your first sight of the majestic Taj Mahal. Admire the sunset overlooking one of the Seven Wonders of the World from Mehtab Bagh, a garden situated across the river. Return to the hotel for an evening at your leisure.

7. 7

   Agra, Ranthambore

   This morning, rise early to witness the Taj Mahal at dawn. Admire the pink hues of the sunrise reflected on this UNESCO World Heritage-listed monument. After checking out of the hotel, indulge in an Insider Experience. Savour lunch at a local restaurant before boarding the Vande Bharat Express for your onward journey to Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to the renowned Ranthambore National Park. This evening, check in to your hotel for dinner.

   Insider Experience - Visit a local artisan workshop

   Witness the exquisite art of Pacchikari, Agra’s traditional marble‑inlay craft. Using semi‑precious stones such as agate, turquoise, jasper, lapis lazuli, mother‑of‑pearl and malachite, master artisans create intricate designs so finely set that the patterns appear to emerge naturally from the marble itself.

8. 8

   Ranthambore

   This morning, set out on a jeep safari through Ranthambore National Park for a chance to see regal Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. The park is also home to leopards, hyenas, deer and a rich array of birdlife. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, and perhaps participate in an afternoon game drive, or simply relax at your hotel.

9. 9

   Ranthambore, Jaipur

   Head to Jaipur, India’s remarkable Pink City. The extensive use of pink-plastered stone evokes the charm of a bygone era, where Jaipur’s rich history blends seamlessly with its modern culture. Admire the city’s impressive forts, lush gardens, and spectacular palaces and temples as you travel by e tuk-tuk through Jaipur’s old city, weaving through historic lanes, vibrant markets, and scenes of everyday local life.

10. 10

    Jaipur

    Today, travel to Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage–listed palace overlooking Maota Lake. Built in the late 16th century, the fort is a striking blend of Rajput and Mughal design, crafted from red sandstone and marble. Afterwards, visit Panna Meena ka Kund, a 16th-century stepwell just below the fort. Designed as both a water reservoir and a place for community gathering, its symmetrical zigzag staircases form a mesmerising geometric pattern. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure before your Insider Experience this evening.

    Insider Experience – Cultural Evening Experience with a Local Family

    Indulge in an immersive cultural experience in Jaipur as you enjoy an evening in the home of a local family. Take part in a Rajasthani cooking demonstration before savouring a feast of regional flavours. Admire the ancient art of henna and turban tying, engaging in Jaipur’s historic traditions. Be mesmerised by the moonlit view of Jaipur as you head back to your hotel.

11. 11

    Jaipur, Delhi

    Enjoy free time this morning in Jaipur, whether you choose to relax or explore the city at your own pace. You may also opt to take part in a hot air balloon ride. This afternoon, depart for Delhi and check in to your hotel before joining your fellow travellers for a Farewell Dinner, celebrating the end of a memorable journey.

    Enhance Your Journey - Hot Air Balloon Ride

    Rise early and soar above the skies on a once in a lifetime hot air balloon ride, taking in sweeping views of the city from above.

12. 12

    Depart Delhi

    This morning, bid farewell to your fellow travellers as you conclude your enriching Small Group Tour in India. After breakfast, depart your hotel and be transferred to the airport.

    You may choose to extend your stay in India with a four-day or .

Accommodation

Book this tour

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

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