Overview

Today, set off for the next city of your luxury India tour: Agra. Upon arrival, meet your local guide for a tour of the impressive Red Fort and the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, known as the 'Baby Taj'. The visit is a great peek into the wonder of Indian architecture before your visit to the real Taj Mahal. Spend your afternoon relaxing at your luxury hotel in Agra, located just 600 metres from the iconic Taj Mahal. Each room offers uninterrupted views of the ancient monument. At night, savour a candlelit dinner beside its soft silhouette.

Wake up at dawn to witness one of the highlights of your trip! At sunrise, proceed with your guide to witness the marble of the Taj Mahal, encrusted with precious stones, seemingly turn into shades of golden tones, revealing like a mirage, one of the seven wonders of the world. Be dazzled by the beauty of this tomb which was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jehan in the image of his deceased queen, an enduring monument to love. After breakfast, continue to Gwalior by road. Your driver will recommend stops en route, passing many scenic villages and towns. Arrive at your Palace heritage hotel, on a 9-acre land in Gwalior built by the royal Scindia dynasty of

The Marathas.

Explore the highlights of Gwalior with your local guide. Gwalior Fort is situated on a sandstone plateau above the city, offering impressive views of the surrounding landscape. Visit the unique temples, particularly the Jain and Hindu temples which are intricately carved. In the afternoon, on the way to Orchha, make a stop at the village of Datia to admire a forgotten palace set in a beautiful scenery surrounded by greenery and a lake. Arrive at your heritage palace hotel, which was once the residence of the Maharaja of Orchha. Overnight at the hotel.

Today, with your guide, you explore the palaces of Orchha, a charming village built around the river Betwa. In the afternoon continue to Khajuraho with your driver and arrive at your environmentally-minded cottage located amidst agricultural land in unspoilt countryside, with magnificent views over the Ken River and towards the plateau of the Panna Tiger Reserve. In the evening, enjoy the delicious home recipes of the conservationist couple that run the lodging.

Today is a full day to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected temples at Khajuraho with your guide. Known for their erotic carvings highlighting Tantrism, the temples are a combination of Hindu and Jain and hold some of the most intricate carvings in India. Later return to relax and enjoy the tranquil scenery at your countryside cottage.

Today board a short flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival, you are greeted and escorted to the Bajra (a traditional Indian wooden boat) which takes you to your hotel. In the evening enjoy a private boat ride along the river Ganges where you witness the evening pooja (prayer) and Aarti ceremony. Bask in the beauty of the candles and offerings that fill the river and watch the people fill the ghats (steps leading down to a river). After soaking up the sights, return to enjoy the view from your heritage palace hotel perched on a wonderous ghat.

Enjoy another boat ride this morning to see the contrasts of life on the river. Along the banks, you'll see pilgrims and locals washing, socialising and praying. Witness the spectacle offered by life along the river. Crowds of Indians from all over the country perform ablutions or burn their loved ones in the sacred eternal cremation fire that is said to have been burning for 3000 years. Your guide can also take you on land to visit the markets and food stalls. Overnight back at your heritage hotel.

At sunrise embark on an excursion to Sarnath, the sacred Buddhist town about 12 km from Varanasi. Sarnath is the site of deer park, where Gautama Buddha gave his first teachings. It is one of the four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by the Buddha for pilgrimage. Visit several historic sites with your guide before returning to your hotel in Varanasi to enjoy a panoramic view of the Ghats.

Take a flight back to Delhi today. Arrive at your luxury hotel in Delhi, just steps away from Connaught Place, the renowned shopping district, where you can find many souveniers. Do some shopping or use this moment today to relax after all your exploring by trying an Indian Ayurvedic massage, based on the rebalancing of body energies. Recharge and rest at your hotel for the night before a full day discovering New and Old Delhi the next day.

Start your day exploring New Delhi; visit Hamuyan's Tomb and The Lodhi Gardens. On the way to shop at Khanna Market, witness the spectacular street art in the Lodhi Art District. Next, meet your guide for an Old Delhi street food tour. While sampling the best of Delhi’s local specialities at favourite vendors, learn about Delhi’s history and absorb the hustle and bustle of the streets as you visit different locations by rickshaw. With a full belly after eating delicious food, take a rest back at your hotel for the night.

If the schedule of your international flight allows, take the opportunity to make some last visits or browse the bazaars to buy some  souvenirs to bring back and enjoy a last sip of Chai masala tea. Your private driver will accompany you to the airport. Our services are coming to an end. Do not hesitate to contact one of our North India Travel Experts who will be happy to answer your questions and your requests, or customise this trip to your desires.

• Included in the price

1. Accommodation in luxury hotels
2. Gwailor Fort w/ Guide
3. Guided tour of Orchha
4. Temples at Khajuraho w/ Guide
5. Domestic flight to Varanasi
6. Ganges boat ride (Evening w/ guide)
7. Aarti ceremony
8. Ganges boat ride (Morning); Full day w guide
9. Half day to Sarnath, tour w/ guide
10. Domestic flight to Delhi
11. Old Delhi Food Tour
12. The ground transfers in a private vehicle, with English speaking driver ***The driver is available up to 8 hour a day