Golden Triangle with Varanasi (8D/7N)
Overview
The Golden Triangle is India's most renowned tourist circuit, connecting the Capital of India, Delhi, with Agra, the home of the Taj Mahal, and usually concluding in Jaipur, known as the Pink City. These three cities form a triangular shape on the map, giving rise to the name Golden Triangle Tour. The Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi is an extended version that allows you to explore Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Varanasi, a sacred city dating back to the 11th century B.C., considered the spiritual capital of India.
Note: Taj Mahal remain close for all visitors on Friday.
Tour Plan
Day 01: Arrival in Delhi
Upon your arrival at Delhi airport, our delegate will greet you with a placard displaying your name and relocate you to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel in Delhi and relax yourself.
Day 02: Delhi City Tour
After having a delicious breakfast, move towards great sightseeing tour of Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in the country, and explore the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, known for its spice market. Experience a thrilling rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Chandni Chowk. Next, visit the magnificent Red Fort, the historic Raj Ghat, and Humayun's Tomb, a splendid example of Mughal architecture. Later, visit the Lotus Temple, Qutub Minar, Parliament House, President House, and India Gate. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the city further. Stay overnight at the hotel in Delhi and relax yourself.
Day 03: Delhi to Agra
After breakfast, proceed to the Mughal city of Agra. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. After freshening up, visit the iconic Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. (Note: Taj Mahal remains closed on Fridays) Later, visit the majestic Agra Fort, built by Emperor Akbar, and the beautiful tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula, often referred to as the Baby Taj. Enjoy the evening at your leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel in Agra and relax yourself.
Day 04: Agra to Jaipur
Visit Taj Mahal at Sunrise and Proceed to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri and Chand Baori In the early morning, witness the enchanting beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise (optional visit). Return to the hotel for delicious breakfast and check-out from your rooms. Proceed to Jaipur, the Pink City, with en route visits to Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted red sandstone city built by Emperor Akbar, and Chand Baori, a magnificent stepwell in Abhaneri village. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check-in at the hotel. Rest of the day is free for fun loving activities. Stay overnight at the hotel in Jaipur and relax yourself.
Day 05: Jaipur City Tour
After breakfast, visit the impressive Amber Fort, located amidst the Aravali Hills. Enjoy an optional elephant ride to the fort (subject to additional charges). Next, visit Jal Mahal, the Water Palace, and Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, which is a famous monument in Jaipur. In the afternoon, explore the City Palace and Museum, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Adjacent to the palace is the Jantar Mantar, an ancient astronomical observatory. The rest of the day is free for shopping from local market or relaxation. Stay overnight at the hotel in Jaipur and relax yourself.
Day 06: Jaipur to Delhi and Overnight Train to Varanasi
After breakfast, visit the Birla Temple and the famous Monkey Temple (Galta Ji). Later, you will be transferred back to Delhi to catch your overnight train to Varanasi. In the evening, you will be dropped at the New Delhi Railway Station to board the Shiv Ganga Express (Train No. 02560) departing at 20:05 hrs and arriving in Varanasi at 06:25 hrs. Overnight on the train.
Day 07: Varanasi City Tour with Evening Ganga Aarti
Upon arrival at Varanasi Railway Station, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the hotel (subject to availability for early check-in). After freshening up, embark on a city tour of Varanasi. Visit notable attractions such as the Bharat Mata Temple, Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir, and Banaras Hindu University, which houses an art gallery. Explore the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The rest of the day is yours to have at your own leisure time.
In the evening, witness the grand Ganges Aarti, a fire ritual performed on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. This mesmerizing ceremony is a beautiful expression of gratitude to the river and a request for its blessings. The Aarti involves chanting, ringing of bells, the illuminating glow of fire, and the offering of flowers. Hundreds of people gather at Dasaswamedh Ghat every evening to experience this spiritual spectacle performed by seven young priests. We assure you that this event will be a remarkable and unforgettable highlight of your trip. Return to the hotel and have the rest of the evening at your own leisure time. Overnight stay in Varanasi.
Day 08: Early Morning Boat Ride, Visit Sarnath & Flight to Delhi
Begin your day with an enchanting boat excursion on the holy Ganges River during the serene early morning hours. Witness the bathing Ghats and the sacred cremation sites, where the locals engage in their spiritual rituals. This experience offers a unique and profound glimpse into the cultural tapestry of India.
Afterward, enjoy breakfast and proceed to visit Sarnath, an important Buddhist city where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the ruins, the stupa, the Buddhist temple, and the museum, which showcase the rich historical and spiritual significance of Sarnath.
In the afternoon time, you will be relocate to Varanasi airport to catch your flight to Delhi. Flight No. UK-813 is scheduled to depart from Varanasi at 15:20 hrs and arrive in Delhi at 16:50 hrs. Upon reaching Delhi, continue your onward journey by boarding your connecting flight.
Included/Excluded
- Pick Up from Airport/railway Station.
- A welcome drink (non-alcoholic) will be provided.
- All expenses for fuel, toll tax, driver's allowance, and parking charges.
- Local guides will be available for sightseeing in Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra.
- A company representative/driver will assist you at all arrival and departure points.
- You will receive a complimentary packaged water bottle per guest per day.
- Enjoy a cycle-rickshaw ride through the ancient bazaar of Old City in Delhi.
- All transfers, sightseeing, and excursions will be arranged by air-conditioned private car on a point-to-point basis (not at disposal).
- Personal Insurance coverage for personal loss.
- Airfare and train tickets not Included.
- Entrance/Camera fees to monuments.
- Expenses arise due to flight delays/cancellation.
- Expenses arise due to strike/natural calamities.
- Airport taxes, visa fees etc.
- Tips for the tour guide, driver, Attendant etc.
- Anything which is not mentioned in Inclusive.
Note:
- Please note that the proposed itinerary is just that—suggestions. We give you the freedom to alter your tour package in accordance with your tastes, unique interests, and needs. We are available to customise the package to your preferences, whether you want to add new places to see or change the order of the schedule.
- Accommodation is not included in this itinerary, you can choose Accommodation options as per your requirement and preferences (budget, 3-star, 4-star, and 5-star hotels). You can also opt for different meal plans such as CP (breakfast only), MAP (breakfast with lunch or dinner), and AP (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).