Golden Triangle with Varanasi 07 Nights/08 Days
Duration
8 days
Destination 02 Nights Delhi/ 2 Nights Jaipur/ 01 Nights Agra / 02 Nights Varanasi
The Golden Triangle with Varanasi tour combines the classic Golden Triangle circuit with a visit to Varanasi, one of the oldest and most sacred cities in India. Here’s an overview of what each component of this tour entails:
Golden Triangle: The Golden Triangle refers to the tourist circuit comprising three cities in northern India: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Each city is renowned for its historical significance, architectural marvels, and cultural heritage.
- Delhi: As the capital city of India, Delhi offers a blend of modernity and tradition. Key attractions include UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, and the Red Fort. Old Delhi, with its narrow lanes, bustling markets, and historic monuments like Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk, provides a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
- Agra: Agra is synonymous with the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Besides the Taj Mahal, visitors can explore the majestic Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Fatehpur Sikri, a well-preserved Mughal-era city.
- Jaipur: Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is famous for its vibrant culture, majestic forts, and palaces. Highlights include the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), City Palace, and Jantar Mantar observatory. Jaipur is also a hub for shopping, particularly for handicrafts, textiles, and gemstones.
Varanasi: Varanasi, situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganges, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus and attracts pilgrims and travelers from around the globe.
- Spiritual Experience: Varanasi is renowned for its ghats (steps leading to the river) where devotees perform rituals, including bathing in the Ganges and performing cremation ceremonies. Witnessing the Ganga Aarti ceremony, a captivating ritual of offering prayers to the river, is a highlight of any visit to Varanasi.
- Cultural Exploration: Explore the narrow lanes and ancient temples of Varanasi, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and Durga Temple. The city also offers opportunities to experience classical music, dance performances, and traditional crafts.
- Boat Ride: A boat ride on the Ganges during sunrise or sunset provides a unique perspective of Varanasi’s ghats, temples, and bustling riverfront activities. It’s a serene and memorable experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s spiritual ambiance.
Combining the Golden Triangle with Varanasi offers a diverse and enriching travel experience, showcasing India’s architectural wonders, cultural heritage, and spiritual traditions. Travelers can explore the contrasts between the bustling cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur and the timeless spirituality of Varanasi, creating memories that last a lifetime.
Detailed Day Wise Itinerary
- Arrive in Delhi, the capital city of India.
- Check into your hotel and rest after your journey.
- In the afternoon, visit some of Delhi's iconic landmarks such as India Gate, Humayun's Tomb, and Qutub Minar.
- Explore the bustling markets of Delhi in the evening, such as Connaught Place or Chandni Chowk, and savor some delicious street food.
- After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi.
- Visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, and explore the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk.
- Explore Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, and drive past the Red Fort.
- In New Delhi, visit landmarks like the Lotus Temple, India Gate, and the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President's House).
- End your day with a visit to the vibrant markets of Delhi or indulge in some traditional Indian cuisine at a local restaurant.
- After breakfast, drive to Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal.
- Check into your hotel upon arrival and freshen up.
- Visit the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its magnificent architecture and history.
- In the evening, witness the mesmerizing sunset at the Taj Mahal from the Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden) across the Yamuna River.
- Early morning visit to the Taj Mahal to witness the stunning sunrise (optional).
- After breakfast, drive to Jaipur, the Pink City of India, en route visit Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore the historical monuments and palaces of Fatehpur Sikri.
- Continue your journey to Jaipur and check into your hotel upon arrival.
- Spend the evening exploring the colorful markets of Jaipur and shopping for handicrafts and textiles.
- After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Jaipur.
- Visit the majestic Amber Fort, located on a hilltop, and enjoy an elephant or jeep ride up to the fort (optional).
- Explore the City Palace, a beautiful blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, and visit the adjacent Jantar Mantar observatory.
- Stop by the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) and take photographs.
- In the evening, you can opt to visit Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort, to experience Rajasthani culture, cuisine, and entertainment.
- After breakfast, catch a flight from Jaipur to Varanasi.
- Upon arrival in Varanasi, check into your hotel and relax.
- In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony on the ghats of the River Ganges. It's a spiritual experience not to be missed.
- Early morning boat ride on the Ganges to witness the sunrise and the rituals being performed by the pilgrims.
- After breakfast, explore the narrow lanes and ancient temples of Varanasi, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and Durga Temple.
- Visit the Benaras Hindu University (BHU) and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
- In the evening, you can explore the local markets of Varanasi for souvenirs or attend a classical music or dance performance.
- Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to explore Varanasi further.
- Transfer to the airport for your onward journey or departure from Varanasi.
