Essence of India by Train

Today, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Delhi, a city with a rich history dating back to the 6th century BC. Begin your tour at Rajghat, the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Next, visit Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan. Experience the vibrant atmosphere with a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi's busiest market. Drive past the Presidential House and India Gate in Edwin Lutyen's Delhi. Explore Humayun's Tomb, built in 1562 by his wife, Hamida Banu Begum. Conclude your day with a visit to the Qutab Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret, commissioned by Qutbuddin Aibak. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Early in the morning, Alkof Holidays representative will pickup you from your hotel in Delhi and transfer you to Hazrat Nizamuddin Delhi by Car. From Hazrat Nizamuddin Delhi, you will board on Gatimaan Express and depart for Agra. Around 8:10 AM you will be served with your breakfast in the train.

09:50 Hours: On arrival at Agra railway station, you will meet your tour guide, who will be there at the railway station holding a placard of your name for identification. After a warm welcome, proceed for the sightseeing of the city of Agra, an ancient capital of the Mughal Empire. Your sightseeing begins with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal, described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love. Built in 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the memories of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It took around 20 thousand workers and around 22 years to complete this amazing architecture. Taj Mahal attracts more than half of the tourist visit India, and it is believed that your trip of India is incomplete if you haven't visited the Taj Mahal. 

Lunch Time: 12:30 Hours: Enjoy a delicious multi-cuisine lunch in a luxury restaurant. Whether you are vegetarian, or non-vegetarian, you will get an extensive range of food of your own choice.

13:30 Hours: Post lunch, you will visit one more UNESCO World Heritage Site the Agra Fort. It is about 2.5 km northwest of its more famous sister monument, the Taj Mahal. It was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638, when the capital was shifted from Agra to Delhi. Before capture by the British, the last Indian rulers to have occupied it were the Marathas. At Agra Fort, you will visit Diwan-E-Aam, Pearl Mosque, Khas Mahal, the Muthamman Burj etc.

Also visit the exquisite Itmad-ud-Daulah. Spend the evening exploring the local markets, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Overnight stay at the hotel in Agra.

Early this morning, our tour guide, and driver will transfer you to Agra Railway Station to board your express train to Gwalior. Breakfast on board. Upon arrival at Gwalior railway station, our local driver will recieve you, and take you on a sightseeing tour of Gwalior, starting with the majestic 5th-century Gwalior Fort, followed by Gopachal Parvat’s Jain carvings. You'll also explore Suraj Kund, Teli Ka Mandir, Sas Bahu Ka Mandir, and the opulent Jai Vilas Palace & Museum. After a day of historical exploration, check in to your hotel in Gwalior for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Orchha. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the charm of this historic town, once the esteemed capital of the formidable Bundela Rajput kings. Begin your exploration with a visit to the majestic Jehangir Mahal, followed by the intricate architecture of Raj Mahal, Phool Bagh, Dinman Hardaul's Palace, and Sunder Mahal. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Orchha’s impeccably preserved temples, including the renowned Ram Raja Temple and the captivating Chaturbhuj Temple. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at your hotel in Orchha.

After breakfast at the hotel, leave to Khajuraho. On arrival, check into your hotel. In the afternoon, delve into the rich cultural heritage of Khajuraho with a temple tour, starting with the renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Western Group of Temples. Among these architectural marvels, the Kandariya Mahadev temple stands out as a breathtaking masterpiece, adorned with intricate sculptural details. While Khajuraho is often associated with its famed erotic sculptures, only a fraction, approximately 15%, of the temple's artworks depict such themes; the majority feature representations of Hindu deities, goddesses, and celestial nymphs. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Eastern group of temples, before unwinding for the remainder of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel in Khajuraho.

After breakfast at the hotel, our tour guide, and driver will transfer you to Khajuraho Railway Station to board your express train to Varanasi. Upon arrival at Varanasi railway station, our local driver will recieve you, and transfer to your hotel in Varanasi. Take some time to rest and relax. Later in the evening, attend the Aarti ceremony on the banks of the River Ganges. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Start your morning with a serene boat ride on the River Ganges, witnessing the sunrise and the spiritual activities along the ghats. Next, visit an Akhara to observe the traditional form of martial arts practiced there. Embark on a morning city tour of Varanasi, strolling through the sacred ghats and immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Golden Temple, and pay homage at the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India. Later, proceed to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the Dhamekha Stupa, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the Archaeological Museum to view ancient artifacts. Continue to the Chaukhandi Stupa, an important historical monument. Return to the hotel in the evening for a restful overnight stay.

Early in the morning around 05.00 AM, our driver will transfer you to Varanasi Railway Station, assisting you in locating your reserved seat aboard the Vande Bharat Express. Enjoy onboard meals as you journey back to New Delhi. Upon arrival at New Delhi Railway Station, our local driver will meet you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, our representative will transfer you to IGI Airport, New Delhi for your journey home or onward journey.