Golden Triangle 3 Star + Varanasi & the Ganges Valley
This fascinating tour of the Golden Triangle encapsulates the glittering royal past of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, taking in magnificent forts, ornate mosques and enchanting palaces.
Explore more of India's heritage with a three night extension to Khajuraho and Varanasi - culminating with a boat ride on the Ganges River.
The Amber Fort, Jaipur
Varanasi, Ganges Valley
The Taj Mahal
The Red Fort, Delhi
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Your Itinerary
DAY 1: Depart UK.
DAY 2: Arrive Delhi - Gurgaon.
On arrival, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for two nights. The capital of modern India, Delhi is a vibrant metropolis boasting a plethora of captivating sights, from elegant shops and colourful, lively bazaars to magnificent forts and intricate mosques. The afternoon is free for you to relax.
DAY 3: Delhi.
This morning's included sightseeing tour of Old Delhi takes in the grandiose three-domed Jama Masjid, Asia's largest mosque and drives past the striking 17th century Mughal Red Fort. You will also visit Raj Ghat and Shanti Vana, the peaceful cremation sites of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nahru, India's first Prime Minister. In the afternoon, see the gems of New Delhi including the awe-inspiring Qutab Minar and the ancient tomb of the Emperor Humayun. You will also see the imposing India Gate war memorial and drive past the President's House and Parliament. (B)
DAY 4: Delhi - Jaipur.
Travel to Jaipur today, Rajasthan's capital and quintessential royal city. Often referred to as the 'Pink City', Jaipur is studded with intricately adorned temples and monuments. (B)
DAY 5: Jaipur.
Following a photo opportunity at the intriguing red sandstone Hawa Mahal, the 'Palace of the Winds', arrive at the stunning Amber Fort. Also known as the 'Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan', the sombre exterior of this legendary fortress-palace hides a rich and elaborate interior, uniquely decorated in both Hindu and Muslim styles. Within the royal apartments, see the glittering Chamber of Mirrors and the ornate Hall of Victory. Later explore the City Palace Museum, home to a collection of paintings, carpets, weapons and costumes, followed by a visit to the Jantar Mantar Observatory. This 18th century collection of architectural astronomical instruments includes the world's largest sundial, standing at 27 metres high. Afterwards, soak up a heady mix of sights, sounds and smells in the bustling markets of the old city. (B)
DAY 6: Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra.
During your early morning journey to Agra, stop en route at Fatehpur Sikri, an abandoned ghost town. Wander around the elegant courtyards, sandstone palaces and victory gate of this eerie city which was abandoned after 14 years of habitation because of its depleting water supply. Look forward to another highlight of your tour in Agra - a late afternoon visit to the Taj Mahal. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, this astonishing edifice was completed in 1653. It was commissioned by Shahjahan, fifth emperor of the Mughal Empire as a memorial to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal and epitomises his love for her. Thin, perforated marble screens allow soft sunlight into the central chamber, which houses both his and his beloved's mausoleum. (B)
DAY 13: Agra.
Visit the tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah, the first tomb in India to be built entirely of white marble. Said to be a precursor for the Taj Mahal, it is famous for its elaborately carved inlays depicting a noteworthy array of geometric arabesque, encrusted with semi-precious stones. Continue to imposing Agra Fort, a red sandstone UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising palaces, audience halls and two mosques. Admire its forbidding battlements and spectacular Mughal Palace with its chambers and room of mirrors. (B)
DAY 14: Agra - Jhansi - Orccha - Khajuraho.
Early this morning, transfer to the station to catch the Shatabdi Express to Jhansi. Upon arrival transfer to Khajuraho for an overnight stay, visiting Orccha enroute. Orccha's fort complex, reached by a multi-arched bridge, is home of the spectacular Jehangir Mahal and Raj Mahal Palaces and fourteen Chhatris (memorials) to the rulers of Orccha, grouped along the Kanchan Ghat of the river Betwa.
DAY 15: Khajuraho - Varanasi.
This morning, see some of India's finest architecture as you tour some of Khajuraho's temples. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city's temples are often referred to as one of the seven wonders of India. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi. (B)
DAY 16: Varanasi.
"The Holy City of India", Varanasi has been North India's religious and cultural centre for thousands of years. Atmospheric and labyrinthine, the city overflows on to the banks of the Ganges. Early this morning, enjoy a real highlight of your tour - a boat ride on the Ganges River. See Varanasi's famous ghats bathed in magical early morning light as you float down India's most sacred river. After breakfast, your included city tour takes in the Bharat Mata Temples, Vishwanath Golden Temple, the Varanasi Hindu University and the Durga (Goddess of Power) Temple. This afternoon, visit Sarnath - one of four places thought by Buddha to be sacred to his followers, and the location of his first sermon. Amongst the ancient ruins you will see the famous Dhamek Stupa and the Ashoka pillar, which is the national emblem of India. You will also visit the archaeological museum. (B)
DAY 17: Varanasi - Delhi.
Say goodbye to Varanasi today as you transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. (B)
DAY 18: Delhi - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.
Accommodation on Tour
Gurgaon (Delhi): Ramada Gurgaon Central; Jaipur: Red Fox; Agra: Howard Park Plaza; Khajuraho: Radisson; Varanasi: Radisson Delhi: Mapple Emerald.
Golden Triangle 3 Star + Varanasi & the Ganges Valley 10 nights
Availability and our best prices for all dates
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Golden Triangle 3 Star + Varanasi & the Ganges Valley 11 nights
Availability and our best prices for all dates
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| Earlier Dates | Date | Depart From | Price from PP | Later Dates | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 Oct 2012 | London Heathrow |
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Golden Triangle 3 Star + Varanasi & the Ganges Valley
Price from £1935.00
Holiday Highlights
- Delhi City Sightseeing
- Jaipur City sightseeing including Amber Fort and Jantar Mantar Observatory
- Fatehpur Sikri
- Agra Taj Mahal, Agra Fort
Departures from
- London Heathrow
Departures between
23 Oct 2012 to 19 Mar 2013
NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable). Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our air-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme
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