Jewel in the Crown - 11 days

Welcome to India! You will be met upon arrival in Delhi and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight: Delhi

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi this morning, taking in the Red Fort, Jama Masjid mosque and the bazaars of Chandni Chowk. This afternoon, enjoy a tour of New Delhi, designed by the eminent Sir Edward Lutyens. Highlights include the India Gate, Rajpath and bustling Connaught Place. A visit is also made to Qutab Minar, essentially a massive tower built to proclaim the arrival of Islam in the 11th century and a carpet emporium.
Overnight: Delhi  |  Breakfast

Delhi - Jaipur. Drive to UNESCO-listed Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan affectionately known as the Pink City and relax in the afternoon. On day 4 take a jeep to the 15th Century Amber Fort, after which enjoy a city tour of the City Palace, followed by a visit to the Jantar Mantar space observatory. Don’t miss the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) with its incredible façade of balconies.
Overnight: Jaipur  |  Breakfast x 2

Jaipur - Agra. En route to Agra, enjoy a visit to the deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri. On arrival in Agra, the rest of the day is at your disposal. On day 6, enjoy a horsecart ride to the Taj Mahal. Possibly the most recognised of all India’s landmarks, the Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan in the 16th century. Later, enjoy a visit to the colossal 15th century Agra Fort and also a marble craftshop. Rest of the afternoon free.
Overnight: Agra  |  Breakfast x 2

Agra - Khajuraho (via Jhansi & Orchha). Transfer to the rail station for the morning train to Jhansi. Upon arrival, the journey continues by road to Khajuraho. En route a visit is made to Orchha. On the banks of the River Betwa, Orchha is famed for its temples and palaces built by the 16th century Bundela rulers.
Overnight: Khajuraho  |  Breakfast

Khajuraho - Varanasi. Close behind the Taj Mahal and up there with Varanasi and Jaipur, are the amazing temples of Khajuraho. Immortalised in stone is a wealth of sensuous and erotic sculptures. This morning visit these famous temples. To avoid a long drive, you will fly to the holiest of Hindu pilgrimage destinations in India – Varanasi.

Please note: Flights from Khajuraho to Varanasi only operate on certain dates of the week, this will need to be considered when selecting a start date for your trip.
Overnight: Varanasi  |  Breakfast

Abundant with temples and a labyrinth of streets, Varanasi is exciting, enticing and a city not to be missed. Early this morning we enjoy a boat ride on the River Ganges to view the sunrise and the ancient religious tradition of ritual cleansing that takes place on the ghats (riverside steps). Enjoy a tour of the city, with its numerous temples and wonderful historic feel; with time later to relax.
Overnight: Varanasi  |  Breakfast

Varanasi - Delhi. After a leisurely morning, we return to Delhi by air.
Overnight: Delhi  |  Breakfast