12-Day India Cultural Tour with Golden Triangle, Varanasi and Safaris
About This Tour
Experience India's vibrant culture, history, and wildlife on this immersive 12-day journey through the Golden Triangle, Varanasi, and Central India's national p...
Duration: 12 Days · Tour type: Private · Activity level: Easy · Accommodation: Included · Standard · Transport: Included · Wheelchair access: No · Cities: Raipur, Delhi, Jabalpur, Jaipur, Agra, Varanasi, Jhansi, Khajuraho, Orchha, Fatehpur Sikri, Kanha Tiger Reserve, Panna National Park · Languages: English
About Jabalpur
Jabalpur
Explore the list of top ranked local tour guides in Jabalpur. Get tour activities offered by tour companies and independent travel guides in Jabalpur.
What's Included
- 11 nights of accommodation in comfortable hotels and jungle resorts
- All inter-city travel and local transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle
- Daily breakfast at hotels and all meals at the jungle lodges in Panna and Kanha
- 4 Canter/Jeep safari bookings, with 2 safaris in Panna and 2 safaris in Kanha National Parks, with a professional guide
- Train ticket from Agra to Jhansi
- A dedicated driver and local guides at major monuments and parks
- GST, hotel taxes, tolls, and other applicable taxes
Not Included
- Domestic flight from a nearby airport to Varanasi
- International or domestic flights to and from Delhi
- Entrance fees for all monuments, temples, and museums
- Laundry, phone calls, tips, and other personal expenses
- Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary, such as additional boat rides or camera fees
- Travel insurance
Itinerary
-
1Day 01
Arrival in Delhi, India's Capital
Upon your arrival at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to relax and prepare for the journey ahead. Delhi's vibrant culture and historic charm are just the beginning of your adventure.
-
2Day 02
Old and New Delhi Sightseeing
After breakfast, you will embark on a full-day tour of both Old and New Delhi. Explore Old Delhi's bustling streets, visiting the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. Take a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk. In the afternoon, discover New Delhi's iconic landmarks, including India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, Humayun's Tomb, and the towering Qutub Minar.
-
3Day 03
Drive to Jaipur, the Pink City
Today, you will drive to Jaipur, the "Pink City" of Rajasthan. After checking into your hotel, you have the evening free to explore the local markets. The vibrant textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts of Jaipur are a delight to discover.
-
4Day 04
Jaipur's Royal Forts and Palaces
Your day in Jaipur begins with an excursion to Amber Fort. Enjoy a jeep ride up to the fort's entrance, and then explore its stunning courtyards and palaces. Afterward, visit the City Palace, the royal residence, and the famous Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), with its intricate facade. A visit to the Jantar Mantar observatory provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient Indian astronomy.
-
5Day 05
Journey to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri
After breakfast, drive to Agra. En route, you will stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal capital. This ghost city is a testament to the architectural brilliance of Emperor Akbar. Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel and prepare for a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal the following morning.
-
6Day 06
Sunrise at the Taj and Train to Khajuraho
Wake up before dawn to witness the stunning sunrise at the Taj Mahal, a moment you'll cherish forever. After the tour, return to your hotel for breakfast. Later, you will be transferred to Agra Cantt railway station to board a train to Jhansi. From Jhansi, a short drive will take you to Khajuraho. Check into your hotel upon arrival.
-
7Day 07
Khajuraho Temples and Orchha Heritage
In the morning, explore the famous Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exquisite, intricate carvings. After the temple tour, you will drive to the medieval town of Orchha. Here, you'll visit the stunning Orchha Fort Complex, including the Jahangir Mahal and the Ram Raja Temple.
-
8Day 08
Into the Wild at Panna National Park
After breakfast, you will drive to Panna National Park, a key part of India's tiger conservation efforts. Check into your jungle resort and get ready for your first wildlife safari. Panna is known for its rugged landscape and a healthy tiger population, along with leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of antelopes.
-
9Day 09
From Panna to Kanha National Park
Enjoy a final morning safari in Panna National Park before driving to the legendary Kanha National Park. The inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book," Kanha is one of India's largest and most beautiful tiger reserves. Check into your lodge and enjoy the serene forest atmosphere.
-
10Day 10
Full-Day Safari in Kanha
Spend a full day exploring Kanha with both morning and evening safaris. The lush sal and bamboo forests are a photographer's paradise. Along with the elusive Bengal tiger, you may spot the unique hard-ground barasingha (swamp deer), gaur (Indian bison), wild dogs, and countless bird species.
-
11Day 11
Fly to Varanasi and Attend Ganga Aarti
After a final morning safari and breakfast, you will be transferred to the nearest airport, likely Jabalpur or Raipur, for your flight to Varanasi. The contrast between the central Indian jungles and the spiritual intensity of Varanasi is profound. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the River Ganges.
-
12Day 12
Sunrise on the Ganges and Departure
Before dawn, take a boat ride on the sacred River Ganges to witness the spiritual rituals performed on the ghats as the sun rises. Afterward, explore the narrow lanes of the old city and visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple. You will then be transferred to the airport for your onward journey, filled with memories of an incredible Indian adventure.
Meeting Point
Meeting point: New Delhi, Delhi, India · Tour start: Delhi, India — Tour ends at the same location as the start point.