Rang Travels — explore the colors of India
The ghats at Varanasi at sunrise, boats drawn up on the sand

Heritage · UNESCO · Culture

Grand India Journey

Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Orchha, Khajuraho and Varanasi

See the day-by-day
Duration
10 days · 9 nights
Halts
5
Delhi to Varanasi
Price
On request
quoted to your dates

The journey

Ten days from Delhi through Jaipur and Agra to Gwalior, Orchha, Khajuraho and Varanasi: the Golden Triangle, then on to the Ganges.

The journey begins with the Golden Triangle: Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, named for the triangle the three cities make on the map. Then it goes on where most tours turn back: the hilltop fort at Gwalior, Orchha on the Betwa, the temples of Khajuraho, and Varanasi, with a boat on the Ganges at sunrise, the evening aarti and Sarnath.

Highlights

What you will remember

  • Old and New Delhi: Chandni Chowk, the Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb

  • Amber Fort, the City Palace and the Hawa Mahal at Jaipur

  • Abhaneri’s stepwell and Fatehpur Sikri on the road to Agra

  • The Taj Mahal, and the fort at Gwalior

  • Orchha on the Betwa, and the temples of Khajuraho

  • Varanasi: a boat at sunrise, the evening aarti, and Sarnath

The route

6 halts, in order

  1. Delhi
  2. Jaipur2 nights
  3. Agra1 night
  4. Orchha1 night
  5. Khajuraho1 night
  6. Varanasi

Experiences

The moments it is built around

Everything else on this page is logistics. These are the reasons to come.

  • A musician playing the ravanahatha below Amber Fort

    Amber, by the old road

    The fort above Maota Lake, its mirrored halls and painted arches.

  • The Taj Mahal in the morning haze

    The Taj at first light

    In at sunrise, when the marble turns from grey to white.

  • Carved figures along a Khajuraho temple wall

    Khajuraho

    A thousand years of carving on the Western Group of temples.

  • Monks standing in the Ganga at dawn

    Sunrise on the Ganga

    A boat past the ghats while Varanasi bathes and prays.

A Khajuraho temple on its plinth, carved from base to spire

Heritage · UNESCO · Culture

Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Orchha, Khajuraho and Varanasi

10 days, 9 nights

The route, day by day

Every halt, every overnight and every drive, published in full.

  1. Delhi
  2. Jaipur
  3. Agra
  4. Orchha
  5. Khajuraho
  6. Varanasi
  1. A child in the arcade of an Old Delhi monument

    01

    Overnight Delhi

    Arrival in Delhi

    As you land in Delhi, India’s vibrant capital, a representative from Rang Travels greets you at the airport arrival gate with a warm welcome and a placard bearing your name. A comfortable car takes you through Delhi’s bustling roads to your hotel. Check-in and relax for a while.

    Later, set out for an Old Delhi city tour, beginning with a rickshaw ride through the narrow, fragrant lanes of Chandni Chowk – once the heart of Mughal commerce. You’ll pass spice markets, street vendors, and intricately carved havelis. Visit the majestic Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, and then stop at the Raj Ghat, the solemn cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Return to the hotel and unwind after your first immersive day in India.

  2. Humayun’s Tomb under a streaked sky

    02

    Overnight Delhi

    New Delhi, the imperial capital

    Today, you will explore the grandeur of New Delhi, a city planned by the British with its wide boulevards and impressive government buildings. Begin your day with a visit to the Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Humayun’s Tomb, a splendid Mughal monument that inspired the design of the Taj Mahal.

    Drive past India Gate, the national war memorial surrounded by manicured gardens, and see the stately President’s House and Parliament House. Visit the serene Lotus Temple, known for its unique lotus-shaped structure and peaceful ambiance. Later, enjoy a walk around Connaught Place, a bustling colonial-era marketplace ideal for shopping or relaxing in a café. Conclude the day with a delicious traditional dinner.

  3. A woman at work behind lines of cotton thread

    03

    Overnight Jaipur

    270 km · about 6 hrs

    Delhi to Jaipur

    After breakfast, depart for Jaipur, the vibrant and colourful capital of Rajasthan, often called the “Pink City”. As you drive through the changing landscape, you’ll witness the transition from urban cityscapes to scenic countryside dotted with rustic villages, mustard fields, and camel carts.

    Arrive in Jaipur by early afternoon and check in at your hotel. Take some time to relax before heading out to explore the local markets. Jaipur is famous for its textiles, blue pottery, leather footwear, and handcrafted jewellery: a shopper’s paradise. In the evening, experience India’s film culture with a visit to the iconic Raj Mandir Cinema, known for its grand decor and vibrant atmosphere, where you’ll watch a lively Bollywood movie with the locals.

  4. A musician playing the ravanahatha below Amber Fort

    04

    Overnight Jaipur

    Jaipur, a royal day

    Start your day with an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort, perched on a hill just outside Jaipur. Ascend to the fort either by elephant ride or jeep, and explore its grand courtyards, halls, and stunning mirror work that reflects the opulence of the Rajput era. On your way back, pause at the picturesque Jal Mahal (Water Palace) for photos.

    Continue to the heart of Jaipur to visit the City Palace, a magnificent royal residence that still houses the royal family. Just nearby, discover the Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory with fascinating and functional instruments. End your sightseeing with the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), a pink sandstone marvel known for its intricate lattice windows. Enjoy your evening at leisure or explore Jaipur’s lively bazaars.

  5. Singers with a harmonium in a courtyard

    05

    Overnight Agra

    250 km · about 6 hrs

    Abhaneri and Fatehpur Sikri, on to Agra

    After breakfast, set out on your journey to Agra, with enriching stops along the way. Your first stop is Abhaneri, a small village known for the remarkable Chand Baori, one of India’s oldest and deepest stepwells, showcasing ancient engineering and architectural brilliance.

    Continue to Fatehpur Sikri, the fascinating red sandstone city built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. Though abandoned shortly after it was built, the city remains well-preserved and impressive. Explore landmarks such as the towering Buland Darwaza, the elegant Panch Mahal, and the sacred Tomb of Salim Chishti, all set within a regal Mughal complex. By evening, arrive in Agra, the city of the Taj, and check into your hotel. Take time to relax and prepare for the wonders ahead.

  6. The Taj Mahal in the morning haze

    06

    Overnight Orchha

    240 km · about 6 hrs, by Gwalior

    The Taj, Gwalior, and on to Orchha

    Rise early to experience the breathtaking Taj Mahal at sunrise (closed on Fridays). Watch the white marble monument glow with changing hues in the morning light, and learn about the romantic legacy behind its creation by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. After returning for breakfast, begin your journey toward Gwalior, a city rich in royal heritage.

    Visit the impressive Gwalior Fort, perched atop a sandstone hill and often referred to as the “Gibraltar of India” for its grandeur and strategic strength. Explore its ancient temples, palaces, and museums, each narrating a story of dynasties past. Later, continue your drive to Orchha, a serene riverside town filled with historic charm. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the peaceful evening at leisure.

  7. The spires of Orchha above the town

    07

    Overnight Khajuraho

    180 km · about 4 hrs

    Orchha to Khajuraho

    After breakfast, set out to explore the historic town of Orchha, known for its stunning architecture and riverside charm. Visit the majestic Jahangir Mahal, built to honour the Mughal emperor’s visit, and the beautiful Raja Mahal, adorned with ancient murals. Stop at the Chaturbhuj Temple, a unique blend of temple and fort architecture.

    Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Betwa River, where the royal cenotaphs (chhatris) offer scenic and photogenic views. Later, drive to Khajuraho, famous for its UNESCO-listed temples decorated with intricate and sensual stone carvings that celebrate life and spirituality. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. In the evening, you may choose to attend the Sound & Light Show at the Western Group of Temples, which narrates the history of Khajuraho under the stars.

  8. Carved figures along a Khajuraho temple wall

    08

    Overnight Varanasi

    Flight 1½ hrs, or an overnight train

    Khajuraho to Varanasi

    Begin your day with a visit to the Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking artistry and architectural brilliance. Explore highlights such as the Lakshmana Temple, known for its elaborate carvings; the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, the largest and most ornate of the group; and the Devi Jagadambi Temple, celebrated for its graceful sculptures. These temples beautifully depict scenes from everyday life, mythology, and divine love.

    After your temple visit, proceed to the airport or railway station for your onward journey to Varanasi, depending on your preferred mode of travel and availability. Whether by flight or overnight train, we’ll ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer. Upon arrival, in Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest living cities, transfer to your hotel and check in.

  9. Monks standing in the Ganga at dawn

    09

    Overnight Varanasi

    Varanasi, the city of light

    Begin your day early with a sunrise boat ride on the sacred Ganges River, gliding past centuries-old ghats where pilgrims perform age-old rituals as the sun rises over Varanasi. Soak in the spiritual atmosphere and the golden reflections dancing on the water.

    After breakfast, visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Continue to the Tulsi Manas Temple, known for its beautiful inscriptions from the Ramcharitmanas, and explore the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University, one of Asia’s largest universities. Also, visit the unique Bharat Mata Temple, which features a marble relief map of India. In the evening, head to Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti, a captivating ceremony of lamps, chants, and devotion.

  10. A sadhu on the ghats at Varanasi

    10

    Departure

    Sarnath 10 km · airport 25 km

    Sarnath, and departure

    After breakfast, drive about 10 km to Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s most revered sites where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, which marks the exact spot of the sermon, the Ashokan Pillar, and the Sarnath Museum, home to the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, India’s national emblem.

    Walk through the peaceful ruins and temples that make Sarnath a centre of spiritual reflection. Absorb the serene atmosphere that still echoes the Buddha’s teachings. Later, transfer to Varanasi Airport (approx. 25 km) for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, connect to your international flight for your onward journey, carrying with you memories of India’s diverse heritage, sacred rivers, majestic forts, and timeless spiritual traditions. Thank you for exploring the colours of India with Rang Travels.

Like the route? We will write it for your dates.

The price

Quoted to your dates

Hotels, transport, guides and entrance fees change with the season and with how you like to travel, so this journey is priced for you. Every quotation itemises what it covers.

Reviews

In their own words

Word for word, several in Italian, because Italy found us early. 5.0 from 146 reviews on Google, and 5.0 from 200 on TripAdvisor.

I had an incredible adventure with Rang Travels in Northern India earlier this year! The tour was jam packed. I loved the beautiful forts and buildings we visited, the markets, as well as the stunning World Heritage hotels. This tour gave me a real taste for India, and I felt very comfortable for my first time visiting!

Read the whole review on Google

Jess Foster

Northern India · May 2025

1 / 19

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