Golden Triangle with Varanasi and Holi in Jaipur

Morning after breakfast, proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour of Delhi. We’ll start with Humayun’s Tomb, a memorial to the 2nd Mughal Emperor, Humayun. It is supposed to be the first Indo-Islamic buildings of India. Now visit Qutub Minar; built in 1192, Qutub Minar is the tallest single tower in India, and perhaps the tallest minaret in the world. Also, get a henna tattoo applied in Delhi as a memorable souvenir. After sightseeing in Delhi, drive to the wonderful former city of the Mughals - Agra, home to the famous Taj Mahal. 

Enjoy an early morning visit to the world-renowned and World Heritage site of Taj Mahal (Closed on Fridays). The Taj Mahal, which is one man’s monumental testimony to love, has become synonymous not only with this city, but with all of India. A mausoleum built by Shah Jahan for his empress Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj is the primary attraction of the city. Located close to the Taj Mahal, you’ll now visit the Agra Fort, which lies on the bend of the river Yamuna. Built by Mughal Emperor Akbar over 1565-73 AD, it was successively occupied and added to by Jahangir and Shah Jahan. Afterwards, return to the hotel for breakfast, then check-out and drive to Jaipur - the flamboyant and historical capital of Rajasthan. Rajasthan's beautiful Pink City Jaipur, was the stronghold of a clan of rulers whose three hill forts and series of palaces in the city are important attractions. Jaipur is also known as the ‘Pink City’ because of the colour of the stone used exclusively in the walled city. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check-in to your hotel. 

After breakfast, drive to Jaipur, the Pink City of India, known for its extensive use of pink stone. It’s the first planned city of early India and Rajasthan’s largest city, a must-visit for history enthusiasts, food lovers, and shoppers. On arrival, you'll be transferred to the Oberoi Rajvilas Hotel for check-in. This luxurious hotel, set amidst manicured gardens, is designed with traditional pink lime plaster, Mughal arches, gold leaf frescoes, and crystal chandeliers, offering a royal Rajasthani experience. Spend the day at leisure or explore Jaipur’s bazaars. Overnight stay at Oberoi Rajvilas.

Your breakfast this morning is followed by the much awaited day of the tour - Holi celebrations. We will take you to a royal heritage property where you will indulge in a group Holi celebration. Here, you will be entertained with Rajasthani folk music and dance, treated to delicious Indian sweets and snacks, offered traditional Rajasthani attires to wear, groovy Bollywood music and lots more. Get ready to face a riot of colours as you enter the cheerful Holi celebrations. After a fun-filled Holi celebration, return to the hotel and relax.

After breakfast at hotel, check-out and proceed to Jaipur Airport to take a flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and relax for some time before taking a trip to Sarnath. Proceed to Sarnath, just 10 km from Varanasi. Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage centres, and one of the holiest Buddhist sites. It is here Lord Buddha had preached his first sermon to his pupils after attainment of Nirvana or enlightenment in 530 B.C. On arrival, check-in to your hotel and relax.

This morning proceed for an early Morning Boat ride on the River Ganges, a ferry pilgrimage from Ghat to Ghat. People bath early in the morning to offer the prayers to the rising sun. The two cremation Ghats are Manikarnika & Harishchandra where funeral pyre burns day & night. After the Ghats tour, return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, explore the city of Varanasi. Visit ancient Kashi Vishwanath Temple; walk through the narrow streets and alleys of the city leading to various hidden and popular market areas as well as other attractions. Evening, you will attend the popular evening Ganga Aarti ritual (Ganga Aarti is the riverside prayer rituals done in honour of the holy River Ganges) on the banks of the River Ganges. During the Aarti, you will see well-choreographed traditional worship rituals done by Hindu priests where they chant holy Sanksrit prayers and sway huge brass lamps in their hands and blow conch shells to produce divine music. Later, transfer to the hotel. 

After breakfast, check-out of the hotel and transfer to the airport to board a flight to Delhi Airport. Upon arrival at Delhi Airport, connect a flight to home/onward destination.