Explore Old and New Delhi

Morning: Old Delhi Sightseeing

Red Fort

Overview:

Visit the imposing Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of India’s sovereignty, which served as the residence of Mughal emperors.

Details:

• Explore its grand halls and courtyards, and imagine the splendor of the Mughal era.

Jama Masjid

Overview:

Visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, built by Emperor Shah Jahan. The mosque’s massive courtyard and intricate architecture offer a glimpse into India’s Islamic heritage.

Details:

• Enjoy panoramic views of Old Delhi from the mosque’s minaret.

Afternoon: Visit Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar

Overview:

Continue your Delhi exploration with a visit to the Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Details:

• Wander through the Qutub complex and admire its ancient stone carvings and historical significance.

Evening: Drive to Agra (Approx. 4 hours)

Overview:

After a full day of sightseeing, depart for Agra, the city of the Taj Mahal. The drive will take approximately 4 hours.

Details:

• Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel and rest for the night.

Overnight Stay: Overnight stay at your hotel in Agra.

Agra – The City of Love

Morning: Visit the Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal

Overview:

Begin your day with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a symbol of eternal love. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is an architectural masterpiece.

Details:

• Explore the beautiful marble mausoleum and its surrounding gardens, and witness the Taj’s ethereal beauty as the morning light reflects off its pristine white surface.

Afternoon: Agra Fort and Itimad-ud-Daulah

Agra Fort

Overview:

After breakfast, visit the majestic Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. The fort’s palaces, courtyards, and gardens are a testament to Mughal grandeur.

Details:

• Explore the fort’s Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience) and Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience).

Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)

Overview:

Next, visit Itimad-ud-Daulah, also known as the “Baby Taj,” a beautiful tomb that inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. This smaller, yet equally ornate monument is a gem of Mughal architecture.

Details:

• Admire the intricate inlay work and symmetrical gardens.

Evening: Optional Visit to Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh

Overview:

If time permits, visit Mehtab Bagh, a garden complex that offers a stunning view of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River, especially at sunset.

Details:

• Enjoy the serene surroundings and capture unforgettable photos of the Taj Mahal in the fading light.

Overnight Stay: Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Agra.

Agra to Orchha via Gwalior

Morning: Drive to Orchha with a Stop in Gwalior

Overview:

After breakfast, embark on a drive to Orchha, with a stop in Gwalior to visit its historic fort. The journey from Agra to Orchha takes about 6-7 hours with Gwalior as a midway stop.

Details:

• Enjoy the scenic drive through the heart of India.

Afternoon: Explore Gwalior Fort

Gwalior Fort

Overview:

Visit the Gwalior Fort, an architectural marvel that has witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties. Known for its massive structure and intricate carvings, Gwalior Fort is often called the “Gibraltar of India.”

Details:

• Explore its palaces, temples, and ancient structures like the Sas Bahu Temple and Man Mandir Palace.

Evening: Continue to Orchha

Overview:

After visiting Gwalior Fort, continue your drive to Orchha, a town steeped in history and home to magnificent palaces and temples.

Details:

• Arrive in Orchha by late evening and check into your hotel.

Overnight Stay: Overnight stay at your hotel in Orchha.

Orchha – The Hidden Gem of Madhya Pradesh

Morning: Explore Orchha’s Architectural Marvels

Orchha Fort Complex

Overview:

Start your day with a visit to the Orchha Fort Complex, which houses grand palaces such as the Raja Mahal and Jahangir Mahal. These palaces showcase exquisite Bundela architecture and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Details:

• Explore the stunning murals and intricate designs within the palaces.

Chaturbhuj Temple

Gwalior Fort

Overview:

Visit the towering Chaturbhuj Temple, known for its unique blend of temple and fort architecture. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection.

Details:

• Climb to the top of the temple for panoramic views of Orchha.

Afternoon: Visit Ram Raja Temple and Cenotaphs

Ram Raja Temple

Overview:

Visit the Ram Raja Temple, a sacred shrine where Lord Rama is worshipped as a king. This unique temple, located in a former palace, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Orchha.

Details:

• Experience the devotion of the local community and admire the temple’s simple yet divine architecture.

Cenotaphs (Chhatris)

Overview:

End your day with a visit to the Cenotaphs along the banks of the Betwa River, which are memorials to the Bundela rulers. These beautiful structures are set in peaceful gardens.

Details:

• Spend time strolling through the serene setting, taking in the beauty of the cenotaphs against the backdrop of the river.

Overnight Stay: Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Orchha.

Orchha to Khajuraho – The Land of Temples

Morning: Drive to Khajuraho (Approx. 4 hours)

Overview:

After breakfast, depart for Khajuraho, known for its UNESCO-listed temples and world-renowned erotic sculptures. The drive takes about 4 hours through the scenic countryside of Madhya Pradesh.

Details:

• Arrive in Khajuraho and check into your hotel.

Afternoon: Explore Western Group of Temples

Khajuraho Temples

Overview:

Begin your exploration of the Khajuraho Temples, starting with the Western Group of Temples, which is the most well-preserved and artistically magnificent collection of temples.

Details:

• Visit the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and admire the intricate carvings depicting gods, goddesses, celestial nymphs, and scenes of daily life.

Evening: Sound and Light Show (Optional)

Sound and Light Show

Overview:

In the evening, enjoy a Sound and Light Show at the Khajuraho temple complex. This captivating show narrates the history and significance of the temples through a dramatic interplay of light and sound.

Details:

• Learn about the cultural and historical context of Khajuraho’s stunning temples.

Overnight Stay: Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Khajuraho.

Explore Khajuraho’s Temples

Morning: Eastern Group of Temples

Eastern Group of Temples

Overview:

Visit the Eastern Group of Temples, known for their beautiful Jain temples, including the Parsvanath Temple, which showcases some of the finest stone carvings in Khajuraho.

Details:

• Explore the temples and learn about the religious diversity and architectural grandeur of Khajuraho.

Afternoon: Free Time in Khajuraho

Overview:

After exploring the temples, spend your afternoon at leisure. You can visit local markets, shop for handicrafts, or explore more of Khajuraho’s natural beauty.

Overnight Stay: Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Khajuraho.

Khajuraho to Jaipur – The Pink City

Morning: Fly to Jaipur (Optional: Train or Drive)

Overview:

After breakfast, you can either fly or take a train/drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and known as the Pink City for its distinct pink-colored buildings.

Details:

• Check into your hotel in Jaipur and relax after your journey.

Evening: Explore Local Markets

Overview:

In the evening, take a stroll through Jaipur’s vibrant markets, including Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, known for their jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts.

Details:

• Enjoy shopping for souvenirs and traditional Rajasthani goods.

Overnight Stay: Overnight stay at your hotel in Jaipur.

Jaipur – Explore the Royal Heritage

Morning: Visit Amber Fort

Amber Fort

Overview:

Start your day with a visit to the majestic Amber Fort, located on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its artistic blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture.

Details:

• Explore the fort’s Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors), Diwan-i-Aam, and other royal chambers.

Afternoon: City Palace and Jantar Mantar

City Palace

Overview:

Visit the grand City Palace, the royal residence of Jaipur’s maharajas, which features beautiful courtyards, gardens, and museums showcasing royal artifacts.

Details:

• Explore the museum’s collections of weapons, costumes, and artwork.

Jantar Mantar

City Palace

Overview:

Continue to Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The observatory features the world’s largest stone sundial.

Details:

• Learn about the scientific and astrological advancements of the Mughal era.

Evening: Hawa Mahal

Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)

Overview:

End your day with a visit to the iconic Hawa Mahal, a stunning five-story palace known for its intricately latticed windows. The palace was built for royal women to observe street festivals without being seen.

Details:

• Take photographs and admire the unique architecture of this Jaipur landmark.

Evening: Departure from Jaipur

Overview:

After a memorable journey through India’s Golden Triangle, Orchha, and Khajuraho, you will be transferred to Jaipur airport or your onward destination.