The Splendors of North India and South India Tour

Arrive at Delhi International Airport, where our representative will meet you after the required immigration, baggage and customs formalities. Transfer by private vehicle to the hotel and complete check-in. Delhi is an appropriate starting point for a journey of this scale because its monuments and neighbourhoods introduce several historical periods before the itinerary moves into other regions of India.

The remainder of the day is intentionally kept comfortable. International arrival times vary, and travellers may need time to rest after a long flight. Guests arriving earlier can take a short orientation drive through suitable areas of the capital, while those reaching Delhi later can proceed directly to the hotel without losing any of the important sightseeing.

Spend the evening at leisure and prepare for the following day's full exploration. The journey ahead will move from the monuments of Delhi to the sacred riverfront of Varanasi, the temples of Khajuraho, Rajasthan's forts and palaces, Mumbai and finally Tamil Nadu's great temple cities. Overnight stay in Delhi.

After breakfast, begin in Old Delhi with a visit to Jama Masjid, one of the city's major Mughal-era religious landmarks. Continue through the historic surroundings of Chandni Chowk, where narrow lanes, traditional businesses and busy market activity provide a vivid contrast to New Delhi. Proceed to Raj Ghat, the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.

Continue into New Delhi, passing India Gate and the ceremonial surroundings of Kartavya Path. See the government district around Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament House from permitted areas, subject to current security and traffic arrangements. The broad avenues and formal planning of this district provide a completely different urban setting from the old city's compact streets.

Later, visit Humayun's Tomb, an important Mughal garden-tomb complex, and continue to Qutub Minar, the landmark tower surrounded by structures belonging to the historic Qutub complex. These visits provide a broad introduction to Delhi's architectural development before the journey moves east towards Varanasi. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Overnight stay in Delhi.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport for the scheduled journey to Varanasi, according to the flight arrangements confirmed for the tour. On arrival, meet the representative or driver and proceed to the hotel. Varanasi has a character unlike the monumental capital visited during the previous two days, with much of its identity centred on the River Ganga, its ghats and the maze of streets behind the riverfront.

After check-in and some rest, head towards the old city and the Ganga Ghats in the late afternoon. Access conditions vary because many lanes close to the river are narrow and busy, so part of the approach may involve walking. The riverfront contains numerous ghats used for worship, bathing, ceremonies and everyday activity, creating one of the city's most distinctive environments.

In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, subject to local arrangements and crowd conditions. Priests conduct the ceremonial worship of the river with lamps, chants and ritual movements as large numbers of devotees and visitors gather along the waterfront. After the ceremony, return to the hotel. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Begin early with a visit to the Ganga Ghats around sunrise. When river and weather conditions permit, an optional or pre-arranged boat ride on the River Ganga offers views of the ghats from the water as the city begins its morning rituals. See important stretches of the riverfront, including the areas around Dashashwamedh Ghat and other historic ghats, while observing pilgrims and local residents beginning their day.

After returning for breakfast, continue with sightseeing in Varanasi. Visit important religious and cultural locations according to applicable access rules, which may include the surroundings of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and other significant sites in the old city. Temple entry, security procedures and access restrictions can vary, so local regulations must be followed carefully.

Later, travel to Sarnath, located outside central Varanasi and associated with the place where the Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, the archaeological area and other accessible Buddhist sites in the complex. Return to Varanasi after the visit and spend the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

After breakfast, check out and proceed towards Khajuraho according to the confirmed transportation arrangements for the tour. The journey leaves the densely built environment of Varanasi and moves towards Madhya Pradesh, where Khajuraho is known internationally for its extraordinary collection of medieval temple architecture.

On arrival, transfer to the hotel and complete check-in. Depending on the arrival schedule, begin with an orientation around the town or keep the remainder of the afternoon free. The temples are best explored with adequate time because their importance lies not only in individual sculptures but also in their architecture, proportions and the extraordinary detail covering their exterior surfaces.

If sufficient daylight remains, take a relaxed walk around the accessible areas near the Western Group of Temples before returning to the hotel. The main temple sightseeing is reserved for the following day so that the principal monuments can be examined without rushing after the journey from Varanasi. Overnight stay in Khajuraho.

After breakfast, begin with the celebrated Western Group of Temples, part of the UNESCO-listed Khajuraho Group of Monuments. Visit the magnificent Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, one of the largest and most elaborate surviving temples at the site. Its soaring structure and densely carved exterior demonstrate the sophistication of temple architecture associated with the Chandela period.

Continue to other important temples within the complex, including Lakshmana Temple and Vishvanatha Temple, according to the final sightseeing sequence. The sculptures at Khajuraho depict a wide range of subjects, including deities, musicians, dancers, everyday life and symbolic imagery. The site is therefore considerably broader in theme than the small selection of sculptures for which it is sometimes popularly known.

Depending on available time, continue towards selected monuments in the Eastern Group of Temples, where additional Hindu and Jain heritage can be seen. Spend enough time observing the architectural differences and stone carving before returning to the hotel. The day provides one of the tour's major transitions from the Islamic and Mughal monuments of Delhi to central India's medieval temple traditions. Overnight stay in Khajuraho.

After breakfast, leave Khajuraho and travel by road towards Orchha, a historic town situated beside the Betwa River. The route crosses the landscape of Madhya Pradesh before reaching a destination whose architecture reflects the legacy of the Bundela rulers. On arrival, proceed to the hotel and complete check-in before beginning the principal sightseeing.

Visit the impressive Orchha Fort Complex, including Jahangir Mahal, whose gateways, courtyards, balconies and upper levels demonstrate a distinctive combination of defensive and palace architecture. Continue to Raj Mahal, another important structure within the historic complex, where surviving interiors provide additional insight into the royal history of Orchha.

Later, see the towering Chaturbhuj Temple and spend time around the old town. If conditions and timing permit, visit the riverside Orchha Cenotaphs (Chhatris), whose silhouettes beside the Betwa create one of the destination's most recognisable views. Return to the hotel after sightseeing and enjoy the quieter atmosphere of this historic town. Overnight stay in Orchha.

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and begin the onward journey towards Agra according to the confirmed road and transport arrangements. Leaving Orchha behind, the route moves north towards one of India's best-known Mughal cities. Suitable stops can be made during the journey for refreshments and rest.

On arrival in Agra, transfer to the hotel and complete check-in. If sufficient time remains, visit Mehtab Bagh, the riverside garden located across the Yamuna from the Taj Mahal. From this side of the river, the setting provides a different perspective on the Taj Mahal, particularly when visibility and weather conditions are favourable.

The evening is kept relatively relaxed because Agra's two principal monuments are reserved for the following day. Travellers interested in local craftsmanship may see traditional marble inlay work at an appropriate establishment, although shopping is entirely optional. Return to the hotel and prepare for the next morning's sightseeing. Overnight stay in Agra.

Begin the morning with a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the defining monuments of Mughal India. Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, the complex is admired for its white marble construction, balanced proportions, intricate inlay work and formal gardens. Arriving with adequate time allows you to appreciate the monument from its main approach as well as closer to the mausoleum.

Continue to Agra Fort, the enormous fortified complex overlooking the Yamuna River. Explore its monumental gateways, courtyards and accessible palace sections, where red sandstone buildings stand alongside later marble additions. Important areas within the complex reveal how the fort functioned not merely as a military structure but also as an imperial residence and administrative centre.

After completing the main sightseeing, the remainder of the afternoon can be kept free for personal exploration. Travellers interested in Agra's traditional craftsmanship may see marble inlay work at an appropriate workshop, though shopping is entirely optional. Return to the hotel and spend the evening at leisure before leaving for Rajasthan the following morning. Overnight stay in Agra.

After breakfast, check out and begin the road journey towards Jaipur, leaving the Mughal city of Agra for Rajasthan. The route crosses the northern plains before entering a landscape that gradually becomes drier as you approach the state capital. Suitable refreshment and comfort stops can be made during the journey.

On arrival in Jaipur, transfer to the hotel and complete check-in. If sufficient time remains, take an introductory drive through the historic city and see the striking façade of Hawa Mahal, whose multiple windows and projecting balconies make it one of Jaipur's most recognisable landmarks. The surrounding old-city streets provide a lively introduction to Rajasthan's capital.

Later, spend some time around Jaipur's traditional bazaars if desired. Textiles, block-printed fabrics, jewellery and handicrafts are strongly associated with the city, although shopping remains optional. The main forts and palace complexes are reserved for the following day, allowing them to be visited at a comfortable pace. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

After breakfast, drive to Amber Fort, the imposing hilltop fort and palace complex outside central Jaipur. Enter through its monumental gateways and explore the courtyards and royal sections within. See the beautifully decorated Sheesh Mahal, where intricate mirror work forms one of the most memorable interiors in the complex, while the elevated position provides views across the surrounding hills.

Return towards Jaipur, stopping for a view of Jal Mahal, the picturesque palace standing within Man Sagar Lake. Continue to the City Palace, where courtyards, gateways and museum areas reflect the history of Jaipur's royal family. Nearby, visit Jantar Mantar, whose monumental astronomical instruments were created for precise observations of celestial movements.

Complete the sightseeing around the old city with another view of Hawa Mahal and time in the surrounding market streets. The day provides a detailed introduction to Jaipur's combination of royal architecture, scientific heritage and traditional urban life. Return to the hotel after sightseeing and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

After breakfast, check out and begin the road journey towards Jodhpur, travelling deeper into Rajasthan. The scenery becomes progressively drier, with open countryside, small towns and arid vegetation replacing the more densely populated surroundings of Jaipur. Suitable stops can be made along the route for refreshments and rest.

Arrive in Jodhpur and transfer to the hotel. Later, if time permits, head towards the old city and the area around Clock Tower and Sardar Market. The market provides an energetic introduction to Jodhpur through spice stalls, textiles, household goods and everyday local commerce, while the historic clock tower remains an important landmark in the centre.

From suitable viewpoints, the old quarters reveal the blue-painted houses that have contributed to Jodhpur's popular identity as the Blue City. The principal sightseeing at Mehrangarh Fort is reserved for the following morning, ensuring sufficient time for its extensive palace sections and museum collections. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

After breakfast, visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, rising dramatically above Jodhpur from its rocky hill. Enter through the fortified gateways and explore the accessible palace rooms, courtyards and museum collections. The fort's elevated position provides sweeping views across the old city and its distinctive blue-painted neighbourhoods.

Continue to Jaswant Thada, an elegant marble memorial located near Mehrangarh Fort. Its carved stonework, peaceful grounds and setting beside a small lake provide a quieter contrast to the massive fortifications visited earlier. Depending on the final sightseeing programme, time can also be spent around other important areas associated with Jodhpur's royal heritage.

Later, return to Clock Tower and Sardar Market or spend some free time in the old city. Jodhpur is particularly associated with textiles, handicrafts, spices and traditional Rajasthani products, although shopping is optional. Return to the hotel after sightseeing and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

After breakfast, leave Jodhpur and begin the road journey towards Udaipur. The route crosses changing Rajasthan landscapes as the terrain gradually becomes more varied on the approach to the Aravalli region. Appropriate comfort and refreshment stops can be made during the journey according to the day's timing.

Arrive in Udaipur and transfer to the hotel. The city immediately presents a different character from Jodhpur, with lakes and surrounding hills playing a central role in its appearance. If arrival time permits, take an introductory drive around the old city and spend some time near Lake Pichola, one of Udaipur's most recognisable natural and architectural settings.

The evening can be spent at leisure around the lakefront or at the hotel. When weather and operating conditions permit, an optional boat ride on Lake Pichola can provide views of the waterfront palaces, ghats and surrounding hills. The principal palace sightseeing is kept for the following day. Overnight stay in Udaipur.

After breakfast, visit the magnificent City Palace, an extensive royal complex overlooking Lake Pichola. Walk through its courtyards, gateways, balconies and museum sections while observing the architectural details developed under successive rulers of Mewar. Elevated sections of the palace provide impressive views across the lake and the historic city.

Continue to Jagdish Temple, located near the City Palace and reached through the old-city streets. Later, visit Saheliyon Ki Bari, a historic garden known for its fountains, pavilions and landscaped spaces. Together, these attractions show different sides of Udaipur beyond its celebrated lakefront setting.

Spend the later afternoon around Lake Pichola and the old city. Subject to weather and local operating arrangements, enjoy a boat ride for views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir and other structures around the water. Return to the hotel after sightseeing and enjoy the evening in Rajasthan's lake city. Overnight stay in Udaipur.

After breakfast, check out and transfer according to the confirmed arrangements for the journey to Mumbai. This sector marks another major change in the itinerary, moving from Rajasthan's historic royal cities to one of India's largest coastal metropolises. The exact schedule will depend on the transportation arrangements confirmed for the tour.

On arrival in Mumbai, meet the representative or driver and proceed to the hotel. After check-in, take some time to rest before an introductory drive if the schedule permits. Mumbai's dense urban landscape, colonial-era architecture and Arabian Sea waterfront create a dramatic contrast with Udaipur's lakes and palace surroundings.

If sufficient time remains, visit the waterfront around the Gateway of India and see the exterior of the historic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel nearby. A drive along Marine Drive can also be included according to traffic and arrival time. Return to the hotel after the orientation. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

After breakfast, begin with the Gateway of India, the monumental waterfront landmark overlooking Mumbai Harbour. Continue through the heritage districts of South Mumbai, where prominent colonial-era buildings demonstrate the city's development as a major commercial port. See important architectural landmarks according to the day's confirmed route and local traffic conditions.

Continue past Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, an elaborate historic railway building and one of Mumbai's most recognisable architectural landmarks. Later, drive along Marine Drive and visit the area around Mani Bhavan, associated with Mahatma Gandhi's years in Mumbai. These stops provide a mixture of architectural, political and urban history.

Depending on the programme and available time, visit Dhobi Ghat, where traditional open-air laundry activity can be viewed from an appropriate public vantage point. Spend the remainder of the day experiencing the character of the city before returning to the hotel. Prepare for the journey from western India to Tamil Nadu and the southern temple section of the tour. Overnight stay in Mumbai.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport for the scheduled journey to Madurai according to confirmed flight arrangements. On arrival, meet the representative or driver and transfer to the hotel. Madurai is one of Tamil Nadu's important historic cities and introduces a completely different architectural tradition from the Mughal forts and Rajasthani palaces experienced earlier.

Later, visit the extraordinary Meenakshi Amman Temple, the city's principal landmark. Its monumental gopurams, covered with dense sculptural decoration, dominate the historic centre. Inside the larger temple complex, courtyards, pillared spaces and shrines demonstrate the scale and continuing religious importance of this active place of worship.

Depending on opening hours, continue to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, known for its large courtyard, arches and surviving palace architecture. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Visitors should follow all applicable dress, photography and entry regulations at active religious sites. Overnight stay in Madurai.

After breakfast, leave Madurai and travel towards Tanjore (Thanjavur). The road journey crosses Tamil Nadu's interior, passing towns, agricultural landscapes and settlements before reaching one of the most important centres associated with the Chola period. On arrival, check into the hotel and prepare for the day's principal sightseeing.

Visit the magnificent Brihadisvara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of South India's great examples of Chola architecture. The enormous temple tower, spacious courtyard, monumental Nandi and stone architecture demonstrate the scale and engineering achieved during the Chola period. As this remains an active religious complex, applicable temple regulations should be respected.

Continue with a visit to the Thanjavur Royal Palace complex, where accessible sections may include museum or gallery areas according to opening schedules. The city is also closely associated with traditional Tanjore paintings, and travellers interested in local arts may see examples at an appropriate establishment. Return to the hotel after sightseeing. Overnight stay in Tanjore.

After breakfast, check out and travel towards Trichy (Tiruchirappalli). The relatively manageable journey allows substantial time for sightseeing after arrival. Begin with the celebrated Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, an enormous temple complex situated on an island between branches of the Kaveri River.

Explore the accessible areas of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, observing its monumental gateway towers, courtyards and active religious environment. Entry to certain sections may be restricted according to temple rules, and visitors should follow local requirements regarding clothing, footwear and photography. The sheer scale of the complex makes Srirangam one of the day's most significant sights.

Later, visit Rockfort Temple, dramatically positioned on a massive rock outcrop in the heart of Trichy. The climb involves numerous steps, but elevated sections provide extensive views across the city and surrounding landscape. After completing the sightseeing, transfer to the hotel and spend the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Trichy.

After breakfast, leave Trichy and travel towards Chennai, making the longer road journey through Tamil Nadu towards the Bay of Bengal coast. The changing surroundings provide another view of the state beyond its historic temple centres, passing agricultural areas, towns and increasingly urban landscapes as Chennai approaches.

On arrival, check into the hotel and take some time to rest. Depending on the available daylight and traffic conditions, begin an introduction to Chennai with Marina Beach, the city's famous stretch of Bay of Bengal coastline. Continue past important civic and historic districts according to the time available.

If scheduling permits, visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, an important active temple recognised by its colourful gateway tower, and see San Thome Basilica, associated with the Christian heritage of the city. Return to the hotel after sightseeing and prepare for the final day's excursion through Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram. Overnight stay in Chennai.

After breakfast, leave Chennai for Kanchipuram, one of Tamil Nadu's historically important temple cities. Visit major temple complexes such as Kailasanathar Temple and Ekambareswarar Temple, subject to opening hours and applicable entry regulations. Kanchipuram is also famous for its traditional silk weaving, and time may be available to see the local textile tradition if desired.

Continue towards Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) on the Coromandel Coast. Visit the UNESCO-listed Shore Temple, standing close to the Bay of Bengal, followed by the monolithic Pancha Rathas. Continue to the enormous open-air relief known as Arjuna's Penance, and see Krishna's Butter Ball, the naturally balanced boulder that has become another recognisable feature of the heritage area.

After completing the Mahabalipuram sightseeing, return towards Chennai and transfer to the airport or railway station according to your onward schedule. The twenty-two-day journey concludes after connecting the Ganga Ghats of Varanasi, Khajuraho Temples, Taj Mahal, Rajasthan's forts and palaces, Mumbai's landmarks and Tamil Nadu's monumental temple heritage.