Rise early and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel—think parathas, masala chai, and fresh fruits. Today, you’ll dive into Delhi’s rich history with a full-day sightseeing tour led by an English-speaking guide. The day is split between Old Delhi and New Delhi, showcasing the city’s dual identity.

Morning – Old Delhi: Begin at Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, with its grand courtyard and stunning minarets. Next, hop on a rickshaw for a thrilling ride through Chandni Chowk, a chaotic yet charming bazaar filled with spices, textiles, and street food. Pass by the imposing Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Mughal stronghold (entry optional based on time). Stop at Raj Ghat, the serene memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, surrounded by lush gardens.

Afternoon – New Delhi: After lunch at a local restaurant (try dal makhani and tandoori roti), explore the modern side of the capital. Drive past India Gate, a war memorial honoring Indian soldiers, and admire the governmental grandeur of Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament House. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, a Mughal architectural masterpiece that inspired the Taj Mahal, and conclude with Qutub Minar, a 12th-century minaret and another UNESCO site.

Return to your hotel in the evening, reflecting on Delhi’s vibrant tapestry of history and culture. Overnight stay in Delhi.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking through bustling markets and monument complexes.

After an early breakfast, depart Delhi at around 6:00 AM for Agra, the next stop on your Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi – 8 Days. The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours via the Yamuna Expressway, one of India’s smoothest highways. Arrive in Agra by late morning and check into your hotel.

Afternoon – Agra Exploration: Post-lunch, visit Agra Fort, a massive red sandstone fortress and UNESCO site that served as the Mughal emperors’ residence. Explore its palaces, mosques, and audience halls with your guide, who’ll share tales of Emperor Shah Jahan’s reign. Next, head to Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, often called the "Baby Taj," a delicate marble mausoleum with intricate inlay work.

Evening: Relax at the hotel or take a short walk to a local market like Sadar Bazaar to sample Agra’s famous petha (a sweet delicacy). Rest early, as tomorrow’s sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal requires an early start. Overnight stay in Agra.

Why Agra? Home to the Taj Mahal, Agra is the jewel of the Golden Triangle, offering a glimpse into Mughal opulence and architectural brilliance.

Wake up before dawn (around 5:00 AM) for the highlight of your Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi – 8 Days: a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. Your guide and driver will escort you to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the first rays of sunlight illuminate its white marble facade, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Spend about two hours exploring the monument, learning about its love story between Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. Return to the hotel for breakfast by 8:30 AM.

Morning – En Route to Jaipur: Check out by 9:30 AM and begin the 5-6-hour drive to Jaipur. Along the way, stop at Fatehpur Sikri (40 km from Agra), a deserted Mughal city and UNESCO site. Explore its palaces, mosques, and Buland Darwaza, the grand victory gate. Optionally, pause at Abhaneri Stepwell (Chand Baori), a stunning 9th-century architectural marvel, if time permits.

Afternoon – Arrival in Jaipur: Reach Jaipur, the Pink City, by late afternoon. Check into your hotel and unwind. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps sampling Rajasthani specialties like dal baati churma and ghevar, accompanied by folk music or dance. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

Travel Tip: Keep your camera ready for the Taj Mahal’s magical hues and Jaipur’s colorful streets.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of Jaipur, the final leg of the Golden Triangle in your Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi – 8 Days. Known for its pink-hued architecture and royal heritage, Jaipur is a feast for the senses.

Morning – Amber Fort: Start at Amber Fort, a hilltop fortress overlooking Maota Lake. Ascend via an elephant ride (or jeep, if preferred) and explore its ornate palaces, courtyards, and Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace). Your guide will narrate tales of Rajput valor and Mughal alliances.

Afternoon – City Highlights: After lunch at a local eatery, visit City Palace, the residence of Jaipur’s royal family, blending Rajput and Mughal styles. Admire its museums and courtyards. Next, stop at Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO-listed astronomical observatory with massive sundials. Conclude with a photo stop at Hawa Mahal, the iconic "Palace of Winds" with its honeycomb facade.

Evening: Stroll through Johari Bazaar to shop for jewelry, textiles, or handicrafts. Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay in Jaipur.

Why Jaipur? The Pink City encapsulates Rajasthan’s regal charm, making it a must-visit on this 8-day itinerary.

After breakfast, check out from your Jaipur hotel by 8:00 AM and drive back to Agra (5-6 hours). Arrive by early afternoon and enjoy a light lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing or revisiting a favorite Agra site, like Mehtab Bagh, for a distant view of the Taj Mahal.

Evening – Train to Varanasi: At 7:00 PM, your driver will drop you at Agra Cantt Railway Station to board an overnight train to Varanasi (e.g., Marudhar Express, departing around 8:00 PM, arriving Varanasi by 8:00 AM). Travel in an AC Chair Car or Sleeper Class (based on package) for a comfortable journey. This marks the transition from the Golden Triangle’s historical grandeur to Varanasi’s spiritual depth in your Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi – 8 Days. Overnight aboard the train.

Travel Tip: Pack a small overnight bag for the train, as luggage will be stowed separately.

Arrive at Varanasi Junction by 8:00 AM, where a representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Check in, freshen up, and enjoy breakfast. Varanasi, the spiritual climax of your Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi – 8 Days, awaits with its ancient ghats and sacred rituals.

Morning – Sarnath Excursion: After breakfast, drive 10 km to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum (closed Fridays), and Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India. Return to Varanasi by noon.

Afternoon – City Tour: Explore Varanasi’s highlights, including Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a revered Shiva shrine, and Banaras Hindu University, a sprawling campus with cultural significance. Stroll through the narrow lanes near Dashashwamedh Ghat, soaking in the city’s vibrant chaos.

Evening – Ganga Aarti: At sunset, board a boat on the Ganges to witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Priests perform this mesmerizing ritual with lamps, chants, and bells, honoring the sacred river. Return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay in Varanasi.

Why Varanasi? Known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi offers a profound contrast to the Golden Triangle’s architectural wonders.

Wake up before dawn (around 5:00 AM) for a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, a soul-stirring finale to your Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi – 8 Days. Watch pilgrims bathe and pray as the sun rises, casting a golden glow over the ghats. Return to the hotel by 7:30 AM for breakfast.

Morning – Departure: Check out by 10:00 AM and transfer to Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport for a flight to Delhi (e.g., departing 12:00 PM, arriving 1:30 PM, not included). Upon arrival in Delhi, connect to your international flight home or extend your stay. Your 8-day journey ends with memories of India’s heritage and spirituality.

Travel Tip: Book your Varanasi-Delhi flight in advance to ensure a smooth departure.