Golden Triangle, Varanasi & Lucknow
- Days 11
- Tour Code GTVAL
- Tour Type Private Journey
- Tour Price From $ 1543 Per person sharing DBL/TWN
- Best Time Oct-Apr (Best), May-Jul(Low)
- Destinations Delhi, Varanasi, Luc... Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, Agra, Jaipur
Tour Overview
Embark on an 11-day journey through North India, where history, spirituality, and culture come alive. Begin in Delhi, exploring the contrasts of Old and New — from Mughal forts and colonial boulevards to bustling markets and modern city life. A scenic train takes you to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, where you’ll witness the mystical Ganga Aarti, glide past ancient ghats at sunrise, and wander the winding lanes steeped in tradition. From there, travel to Lucknow, the city of Nawabs, and experience its poetic charm through grand Mughal architecture, serene gardens, and the rich flavors of Awadhi cuisine. En route to Agra, visit Kannauj, the ancient perfume capital, and explore the art of traditional attar-making. In Agra, marvel at the timeless Taj Mahal and the impressive Mughal forts and palaces. Continue to Jaipur, the Pink City, where royal forts, colorful bazaars, and Rajput history await. Conclude your journey back in Delhi, carrying with you the sights, sounds, and soul of India — a tapestry of devotion, grandeur, and unforgettable experiences.
Highlights
Discover the vibrant contrasts of Old & New Delhi, from Mughal architecture to modern boulevards.
Experience a scenic overnight train journey to Varanasi, offering a slice of local life.
Witness the mystical Ganga Aarti on the banks of the Ganges — a truly spiritual spectacle.
Enjoy a peaceful sunrise boat ride along Varanasi’s ancient ghats and visit Sarnath, a revered Buddhist site where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
Explore the regal grace of Lucknow, known for its Nawabi culture, gardens, monuments and Indulge in the rich Flavors of Awadhi cuisine, famous for kebabs, biryani, and royal recipes.
Tour traditional distilleries and learn about the ancient art of natural perfume-making in Kannauj.
Marvel at the breathtaking Taj Mahal at sunrise — a symbol of eternal love.
Immerse in the royal grandeur of Jaipur, Rajasthan’s Pink City of palaces and forts.
Day-by-day
Day 1
Welcome to Delhi
On arrival at DELHI Indira Gandhi International Airport (Terminal 3), following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, as you exit the arrival terminal building, you will be welcomed by India Tours & Travels executive holding a placard in your name to greet you. After that, you will be assisted with a transfer to your hotel and check-in.
Delhi, India’s capital territory, is also known for its people with happy hearts and dynamic nature. A symbol of the country’s rich past and thriving present, Delhi is a city where ancient and modern blend seamlessly together and stands as one of the fastest developing cities in the world. The thriving cosmopolitan metro has a long history of empire successions from Delhi Sultanate to Mughals to British and still is the political capital of the nation.
Overnight stay in Delhi (city centre).
Hotel Florence or similar (3*), Jaypee Siddhartha or similar (4*), Vasant Continental or similar (5*)
Meals: (No meals included)
Day 2
Explore the sites of Old & New Delhi
Begin with Old Delhi which still has the influence of the Mughals with monuments, mosques, and forts all through the complicated streets. Take a drive past Red Fort and reach Jama Masjid, the country’s largest mosque with fine architectural extravagance. From here, we will take through the small lanes of the Chandni Chowk market by cycle rickshaws which have there been for more than three centuries. This ride will be most captivating as you get a first-hand view of the merchants, the little food and artefact stalls and the swarming population, busy in their daily activities. In the afternoon, continue with New Delhi sightseeing starting with Bangla Sahib Gurdwara, dedicated to the 8th Sikh guru Sri Harkishen Sahib, make a visit to the pond (Sarovar), the main central hall and the famous community kitchen which prepares food for 40,000 needy people every day. Then, drive past the official buildings of New Delhi like the War Memorial Arch (India Gate), Parliament House, the official residence of the President of India and the Prime Minister’s house. Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to Qutub Minar, with five storeys and projecting balconies, the 73-meter-high tower is one of the most important landmarks of Delhi and a world heritage site.
Overnight stay in Delhi (city centre).
Hotel Florence or similar (3*), Jaypee Siddhartha or similar (4*), Vasant Continental or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
Day 3
Train to Varanasi
Departure Delhi at 0600 hrs/Arrival Varanasi at 1400 hrs. or similar (runs daily except Thursday)
Early morning according to the train schedule, you will be assisted with a transfer (with Packed breakfast) to New Delhi railway station to board the train to Varanasi, which is thought to be the world's oldest known living city, breathes on the banks of the holy River Ganga. For centuries, the mystique of this place has drawn pilgrims from all over India and beyond. Varanasi is colourful and fascinating with ancient spires, maths, holy sanctuaries, priests, and narrow streets covered with shops. Being the oldest and the holiest city, one can see thrilling close rituals of birth and death being performed in parallel on the Ghats. Upon arrival at Varanasi railway station, you will be welcomed by our executive holding a placard in your name to greet you. After that, you will be assisted with a transfer to your hotel for check-in. Later in the evening, enjoy the sunset boat ride in the holy river Ganges and witness the Grand Aarti (prayer ceremony) on the ghats where dozens of oil lamps are lit and swayed in a semi-circle, in tandem by the priests to offer prayers, while singing of Vedic hymns and playing of the traditional instruments. Appreciate the beauty and significance of Varanasi's magnificent Ganga Arti and understand the culture and origins of spirituality. Feel the energy of holy rites close to the Ganges and get enchanted by Varanasi's vibrant and gratifying spiritual experience that will last a lifetime.
Overnight stay in Varanasi.
Surya Kaiser Palace or similar (3*), Madin or similar (4*), Radisson Varanasi or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
Day 4
Explore the city of Varanasi
Early morning (before sunrise), meet your local English-speaking guide in your hotel lobby and proceed to the Ghats to enjoy a sunrise boat ride on the river Ganges which provides the best panoramic view for taking in the brilliance. As the sun comes up, the recitations, percussions, and ringing of the temple bells deepen, producing a magnificent glow on the divine steps and their landscape of sanctuary turrets, insignias, and parasols. Before you head back to the hotel for breakfast, visit Kashi Vishwanath temple, situated on the bank of the holy River Ganga. It is the most significant temple in Varanasi, devoted to Lord Shiva and it is one of just 12 in India (entry though is restricted for non-Hindus; visit would be from the outside). Later after breakfast, proceed for the sightseeing tour of Varanasi starting from Sankat Mochan Hanuman (Monkey God) Temple is a signifier of belief and courage. Having entered the temple, one can recognise the positive vibes. Durga Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Durga. This 18th-century Hindu temple was built by a Bengali Queen. Conclude your Varanasi sightseeing with a visit to the unique Bharat Mata Mandir, dedicated to our country - Mother India. In the afternoon excursion to Sarnath (Closed on Friday) situated around 10 Km from Varanasi city, the site of the deer park where Gautama Buddha is said to have given his first sermon or in religious language, set in motion the Wheel of Law (Maha Dharmachakra Parivartan). It has been a leading centre for Buddhism and has a rich collection of ancient Buddhist relics and antiques. To name a few charms paying to the spiritual significance of Sarnath, are Ashoka's Pillar, Dharma Stupa built by Emperor Ashoka and many more. Return to hotel and spend rest of the time at leisure.
Overnight stay in Varanasi
Surya Kaiser Palace or similar (3*), Madin or similar (4*), Radisson Varanasi or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
Day 5
Drive to Lucknow and relax
After breakfast, check out and travel to Lucknow (Approx. 05 to 06 hrs. drive) fondly known as the ‘City of Nawabs’, renowned for its refined elegance, gracious hospitality, and rich cultural heritage. As you journey through its winding alleys and vibrant boulevards, you’ll discover a city where every corner whispers stories from a bygone era. With its intricately adorned architecture and poetic ambiance, Lucknow feels like a scene lifted from a timeless verse of Urdu poetry. The city’s legacy stretches from the ancient chapters of the Ramayana to the pivotal moments of the Indian independence movement, making it a vital cultural and administrative hub of Uttar Pradesh. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure — a perfect time to relax or soak in the charm of this historic city at your own pace.
Overnight stay in Lucknow.
Golden Tulip or similar (3*), Clarks Awadh or similar (4*), Saraca Lucknow or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
Day 6
Explore the highlights of the City of Nawabs, Lucknow
After breakfast, enjoy the sightseeing of Lucknow starting with Bara Imambara, an architectural delight, the Imambara comprises majestic gateways and the structure is built out of special Lakhnavi bricks. The middle hall is one of the most massive arched halls in the world. Chota Imambara, decorated with exquisite chandeliers imported from Belgium, the Imambara is a ravishing mausoleum. Golden spires, vivid colours and Islamic verses written in aesthetically pleasing Urdu calligraphy add to the glory of this monument. Asfi Mosque, named after the Nawab of Lucknow, Asaf-ud-Daulah. It holds significance as a major place of religious gathering for the Muslims, specifically at the time of Muharram. Bhool Bhulaiya, is a labyrinth of corridors, in the form of a maze (Bhool Bhulaiya) on the superior floor. The most striking feature of the maze is that one can enter it using any of 1024 ways but there are only 2 ways for coming out of it. Summer Palace was originally built by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. Also referred to as the ‘Palace of Mourning’. With the advent of colonial domination, the palace was later used as a British court for petitions. Government Museum, the oldest and most sizable museum ranging artefacts from the ancient era to modern times hailing from the Harappan Civilisation, Egyptian antiquities, paintings, numismatic evidence, manuscripts etc. can be found in the galleries. British Residency, a gut-wrenching piece of history incorporating the ruins of the Revolt of 1857, the first war of Indian independence. What was once an elaborate and sturdy monument overlooking the Gomti River surrounded by lush greens was originally built for the British residents. Presently, the adjacent church’s cemetery is the resting place for over 2000 deceased individuals who had lost their lives owing to the siege. Spend the rest of the afternoon in Aminabad Market for some last-minute shopping. This market has been in vogue since the time of the Nawabs, and it is still today that Lucknowi weddings are considered incomplete without long visits to the Aminabad market. With an abundance of graceful articles from glass bangles, artificial junk jewellery, handcrafted footwear, and khadi to a whole plethora of make-up products, Aminabad has it all. Book lovers can visit some amazing vintage bookstores that have served as essential destinations for the students and bookworms of Lucknow.
Overnight stay in Lucknow.
Golden Tulip or similar (3*), Clarks Awadh or similar (4*), Saraca Lucknow or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
Day 7
Travel to Agra visiting perfumeries in Kannauj enroute
After breakfast, depart for Agra (Approx. 05 to 06 hrs. drive), a city synonymous with romance and Mughal splendour. En route, make a captivating stop in Kannauj, India’s legendary perfume capital, whose legacy of natural fragrance-making dates back thousands of years. Wander through the aromatic lanes of this historic town, where traditional attar (natural perfume) production is still carried out using ancient distillation techniques. Visit local perfumeries and observe skilled artisans at work — extracting delicate scents from rose, jasmine, sandalwood, and other natural ingredients. Learn about the fascinating process that has earned Kannauj the title “The Grasse of the East,” and perhaps take home a bottle of authentic, handcrafted fragrance as a truly unique souvenir. After this immersive sensory experience, continue your journey to Agra, where the magnificent Taj Mahal and other Mughal-era marvels await. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
Overnight stay in Agra.
Howard Plaza or similar (3*), Grand Mercure or similar (4*), Jaypee Palace or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
Day 8
Agra - See the Taj Mahal & other Mughal treasures
Start your day by embarking on a memorable sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal (closed on Friday). This architectural masterpiece, known as one of the seven wonders of the world, is a symbol of Mughal architecture. It took seventeen years to build and is adorned with intricate inlay work. As you witness the sunrise over this stunning monument, you will be awestruck by its beauty and grandeur (please note that a sunrise visit is subject to weather conditions). Afterwards, return to the hotel for a delicious breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead. Once you're ready, continue your exploration with a visit to Agra Fort. Originally built as a military structure, this semi-circular fort is replete with underground structures and intricate mazes that offer insight into its historical significance. Next on our itinerary is Baby Taj, also known as Itimad-ud-Daulah. This magnificent mausoleum is often referred to as the "jewel box" due to its exquisite design and craftsmanship. Built entirely out of white marble, it stands out from other monuments in Agra. To conclude our sightseeing tour on a sweet note, we'll visit a local sweet shop where you can taste Agra's famous petha—a North Indian candy made from white pumpkin. This translucent candy comes in various flavours and variations that will delight your taste buds. Return to your hotel for an evening of relaxation or explore more of what this vibrant city has to offer at night.
Overnight stay in Agra.
Howard Plaza or similar (3*), Grand Mercure or similar (4*), Jaypee Palace or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
Day 9
Travel to Jaipur visiting Abhaneri stepwells enroute
After breakfast, travel to Jaipur (Approx. 04 to 05 hrs. drive), the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, famously known as the Pink City. En route, pause for a fascinating visit to the Abhaneri Stepwells (Chand Baori) — one of the most visually stunning and architecturally intricate stepwells in India. Dating back to the 8th–9th century, this ancient marvel was originally built to conserve water in the arid region and also served as a gathering place for the local community. With its 3,500 symmetrical steps descending 13 stories deep, the stepwell forms a hypnotic geometric pattern that leaves visitors awe-struck. The adjacent Harshat Mata Temple, though partially in ruins, adds a spiritual and historical depth to the site. After exploring this hidden gem of Rajasthan, continue your journey to Jaipur. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure — perhaps take a stroll through the nearby bazaars or relax at your heritage-style accommodation.
Overnight stay in Jaipur.
Arya Niwas or similar (3*), Shahpura House or similar (4*), Radisson Khasa Kothi or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
Optional Experience : Interactive cooking demo followed by dinner with local family.
In the evening, experience the hospitality of an Indian family (Speak English only) for a nice authentic cooking learning experience followed by dinner. You can join the Kitchen of local residents and learn the art of Indian Cooking. In this typical home-style Indian cooking, you can choose to participate in the cooking or merely watch and enjoy a glass of wine or beer, take pictures, note down the recipes and learn the basics. Indian cooking is a diligent process involving a unique combination of various exotic ingredients such as spices, pulses, grains, and oils. Timings: From 1800 hrs. to 2130 hrs. (Approximately) Inclusions Pick-up drop from/to the hotel by an air-conditioned chauffeur-driven private vehicle, Cooking demonstration followed by dinner, and all applicable taxes.
Starts at 1800 hrs. (Approximately)Ends at 2130 hrs. (Approximately)
Day 10
Explore colourful and delightful Jaipur
Start your day of sightseeing in Jaipur by visiting Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds. This unique structure was designed with a mesh of small windows to allow the women of the royal household to observe street festivities without being seen. Admire its intricate architecture and imagine the vibrant scenes that once unfolded on the streets below. Next, proceed to Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, situated atop Aravalli Hill. This magnificent fort and palace complex will leave you in awe with its maze-like passages and serpentine staircases. Explore its stunning architecture and immerse yourself in the rich history of this royal structure. Continue your journey to the City Palace built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during the years 1729 to 1732, the majestic City Palace is one of the most magnificent structures in Jaipur. The vast complex is divided into distinct series of courtyards, buildings, and gardens including Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal etc. Afterwards, make your way to Jantar Mantar or the Observatory, a UNESCO World Heritage site is by far the most elaborate and complete of Jai Singh’s projects, comprising sixteen masonry instruments and six made of metal. Later explore Jaipur's colourful markets. From textiles and handicrafts to jewellery and leather goods, Jaipur offers a wide range of shopping options where you can find unique souvenirs or indulge in ethnic fashion trends.
Overnight stay in Jaipur.
Arya Niwas or similar (3*), Shahpura House or similar (4*), Radisson Khasa Kothi or similar (5*)
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
Day 11
Travel to Delhi International Airport
The tour concludes with a delightful breakfast at your hotel, followed by a direct transfer to Delhi International or Domestic Airport (Approx. 04 to 05 hrs. drive) to connect the onward flight to home.
No Accommodation on this day.
Meals: (Breakfast at the hotel’s designated restaurant)
Optional Experience : Early morning Jeep safari in Jhalana Leopard safari park
Early morning, set off on an early Jeep safari at Jhalana Leopard Safari Park. Located on the outskirts of Jaipur, this park offers a unique opportunity to explore the rugged terrain and dense forests that are home to a thriving population of leopards. As the sun rises, you'll have the chance to spot these elusive big cats in their natural habitat, along with other wildlife like deer, peacocks, and various bird species. The early morning hours are ideal for wildlife sightings, as the animals are most active during this time. Timings: From 05:00 hrs. to 08:15 hrs. (Approximately – changes as per the weather which will be conveyed one day prior) Inclusions Pick-up drop from/to the hotel by an air-conditioned chauffeur-driven private vehicle, Shared jeep safari Jhalana Leopard Safari Park All applicable taxes.
Starts at 05:00 hrs (Approximately)Ends at 08:15 hrs (Approximately)
What’s Included
10 nights hotel accommodation.
10 Meals as specified – 10 Breakfasts only.
Sightseeing with an English-speaking local guide in Delhi, Varanasi, Lucknow, Agra & Jaipur.
Air-conditioned chauffeur-driven private vehicle as per the strength.
Availability of Mineral water bottles, disposable face masks, hand sanitisers, and wet wipes in the vehicle throughout the tour.
Return airport transfers with meet and assist.
All Monument entrances and rides as per the itinerary.
Train ticket for sector Varanasi to Delhi in AC Chair car.
What’s not Included
Any International/Domestic flights.
Visa fees, Travel Insurance, any medical tests, and quarantine (if needed).
Except 10 Meals as specified – 10 Breakfasts.
Alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages not stated in the itinerary.
Any optional tours, pre- or post-occupancy, early check-in, and late check-out.
Any additional transfers.
Personal Expenses, any sort of tips/gratuities.
Anything which is mentioned not mentioned in the “What’s Included section.”
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Travel with confidence knowing that our dedicated support team is available around the clock while you are on the tour. Whether you need assistance during your journey or require help in unforeseen circumstances, we're here to ensure a seamless experience.
Flexible Booking Options
You're free to make changes to your travel plans at no additional cost up to 45 days before your tour’s departure.
Payment Flexibility
Secure your tour by making an initial payment of only 20% at the time of booking, with the remaining 80% of the balance due 45 days before departure.