Incredible India (4 Star Hotels)

Greetings, India! Upon your arrival at Delhi International Airport, following the completion of immigration procedures, a representative from Travel Talk Tours will be there to greet you just outside the arrival hall. They will provide you with support for your transportation to the hotel. After reaching the hotel, complete the check-in process and take the day to unwind and rejuvenate from your extended journey.

Around 8:30 AM today, you will embark on a sightseeing journey in Delhi accompanied by your guide. The excursion kicks off with a visit to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in Asia. This architectural marvel was meticulously constructed from red sandstone and marble by a workforce of over five thousand skilled artisans. Following that, you will explore Chandni Chowk, the largest wholesale market in Asia. You'll also pay respects at Raj Ghat, a modest memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll drive to Agra (approx. 4 hours). Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and unwind. In the afternoon, engage in the "Best of Agra: Discovering Oriental Agra" tour. This unique program, "Discovering Oriental Agra," aims to connect tourists with the essence of this magnificent city. The journey takes you through Agra's narrow alleys, where grand havelis from the past still stand, along with the vibrant markets of Kinari Bazaar, Lohar Gali, and Rawat Para. You'll step back in time to the era of Emperor Shahjehan at Dara Shikoh's library. Moving ahead, you'll visit the haveli in the Kala Mahal area of old Agra, the birthplace of Mirza Ghalib, a prominent poet in the court of Mughal Emperor Bahadurshah Zafar in Delhi. You'll encounter the remarkable Jama Masjid, constructed by Mughal Emperor Shahjehan in 1648. Additionally, you'll have the chance to meet with various ayurvedic doctors, explore the paan and petha market, and savor the culinary delights of Seth Gali food street.

In the early morning, embark on a journey to behold the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal (Closed on Fridays) stands as an exemplary masterpiece of Mughal architecture, symbolizing India's rich historical tapestry. Following this visit, return to your hotel for breakfast and enjoy a leisurely morning of relaxation. Later in the day, you can continue your exploration by visiting the Agra Fort and the Tomb of I'timad-ud-Daulah, a mausoleum crafted in the Mughal style. Afterwards, make your way back to the hotel for a relaxing conclusion to the day.

Following breakfast, proceed with your journey to Ranthambore, making a detour to visit Fatehpur Sikri along the way. A remarkable attraction in the Uttar Pradesh region, Fatehpur Sikri briefly served as the Mughal Empire's capital from 1571 to 1585. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this location boasts one of the most well-preserved assemblages of Mughal architecture in India. Afterward, continue your expedition towards Ranthambore.

In the early hours of the morning, commence your journey for a game safari at Ranthambore National Park (from 6:00 AM to 9:30 AM) through a Shared Canter Safari. Following breakfast, your next destination will be the "Pink City - Jaipur," located approximately 160 kilometers away and about a 3.5-hour drive from Ranthambore. Upon reaching Jaipur, complete the check-in process at your hotel. You have the option to either enjoy some leisure time or participate in an Optional Cooking Lesson. In the early evening, engage in a cooking lesson hosted by a local Indian family.

After breakfast today, embark on a comprehensive city tour guided by your private guide. During the morning, commence your city exploration. Notable highlights in Jaipur encompass the City Palace, an impressive complex showcasing splendid palaces. Adjacent to this, visit the Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century Astronomical Observatory commissioned by Maharaja of Jaipur, Sawai Jai Singh. Pause for a photo opportunity at Patrika Gate. Optionally, in the late afternoon, you can engage in a bazaar walk coupled with local food sampling. Your journey through bustling markets and the vibrant eat street offers an engaging opportunity to connect with Jaipur's historical essence in a dynamic and immersive manner.

As per your designated flight schedule today, you will receive assistance for your transfer to the airport in order to catch your flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival in Varanasi, arrangements will be made to transfer you to your hotel for check-in. The standard check-in time at the hotel is 2:00 PM, but an early check-in can be arranged for an additional fee. If time permits: In the evening, you can partake in a significant experience by attending a profound Aarti ceremony. This event offers a spiritual connection as you observe devoted Hindus participating in the "Aarti Puja," using illuminated lamps. The leading priests stand on a wooden platform near the water's edge. Accompanied by the recitation of Sanskrit mantras and the harmonious sounds of cymbals and drums, the river is honored with offerings like flowers, incense, sandalwood, milk, and vermilion.

Embark on a morning boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the breathtaking sunrise. As you drift on the waters, you'll have the opportunity to observe the Hindu way of life unfolding along the river's banks, known as Ghats. Return to the hotel to enjoy your breakfast. Later in the morning, delve into a Varanasi exploration that encompasses a visit to various significant sites. This includes the Bharat Mata Temple, housing a sizable marble relief map of India, the Durga Temple, and the contemporary Tulsi Manas Temple. Following breakfast, check out from your accommodation and proceed to Sarnath. This location stands as one of India's four principal Buddhist pilgrimage sites. It was here, after achieving enlightenment at Bodhgaya, that Buddha, known as the 'Awakened One,' delivered his inaugural sermon.

Check out around 4:00 AM and directly proceed to Varanasi railway station for boarding the day train to Khajuraho via BJU ADI EXPRESS, scheduled from 5:00 AM to 12:25 PM. Upon reaching Khajuraho railway station, you will be transferred to your designated hotel. Later in the evening, enjoy the light and sound show at the western group of temples, which vividly depicts the history of the illustrious Chandela Kings and narrates the evolution of these exceptional temples from the 10th Century till the present era.

In the morning, explore the Eastern Group of Temples situated around a serene lake, where the prominence lies on Jain temples within this cluster. The sculptures within this ensemble carry a similar theme to those in the western group, yet they draw more from everyday life. Afterward, proceed to the Western complex of the Khajuraho temple group, home to the most significant temples in Khajuraho. Notably, the Kandariya Mahadeo temple, the largest in size, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, towering at a height of 31 meters. The intricate depictions of deities on the main shrine are widely acclaimed.

Following breakfast at the hotel, you will then embark on a drive to Orchha, a journey of approximately 2 hours, and complete the check-in process at your hotel. In the late afternoon, venture to the Ram Raja Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site also referred to as the Orchha Temple. Remarkably unique in India, this temple honors Lord Ram in the form of a king within a palace setting. With its marble courtyard and vibrant walls, this exquisite temple holds a captivating history. The idols initially intended for the grand Chaturbhuj Temple were originally placed on the ground where the Ram Raja Temple stands today. Interestingly, once positioned on the ground, the idols could not be moved. Participate in the evening aarti ceremony at the temple, accompanied by fellow devotees.

After having breakfast, explore the multi-tiered Jahangir Mahal, constructed in 1606 within the fort premises. The Raj Mahal stands out for its intricate murals, while the Rai Praveen Mahal graces the gardens of Anand Mahal. Orchha boasts temples that hold immense architectural charm and are certainly worth a visit. Among these, the Ram Raja Temple, Laxmi Narain Temple showcasing vibrant frescoes, and the Chaturbhuj Temple are particularly noteworthy. Later in the day, you will be transferred to Jhansi station to catch the Gatiman Express train scheduled from 15:05 to 19:30 hours, headed for Delhi. Upon reaching Delhi station, you will be escorted to your hotel.

Get seamless support for your transfer to Delhi airport today, ensuring a hassle-free boarding experience for your onward journey. Bid farewell to spectacular India until next time!