Cultural Delights of North India
Per person sharing
Embark on the enchanting Cultural Delights of North India tour, a 10-day exploration spanning the diverse landscapes and historical wonders of the region. Commence your journey in Varanasi, the spiritual hub nestled along the sacred Ganges River. Traverse to Khajuraho, home to some of the world's finest art temples, and then immerse yourself in the vibrant streets of Delhi.
This tour crystallizes the charms of North India, guiding you from the eventful banks of the Ganges to the scenic jewels of Rajasthan. In just 10 days, witness the rich architectural styles in Varanasi, Khajuraho, Agra, Delhi, and Jaipur, unveiling the historical tapestry of each city.
As you may dream, every corner of India holds heritage sites narrating the stories of its people and culture.
North India, with its rich historical background, promises an integral experience on any cultural tour. Consider planning your journey during festivals, as it provides a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the life and culture of diverse communities. This tour is a gateway to the soul-stirring pleasures, sights, and sounds that define the cultural allure of North India.
At a glance
| Day 1 | Welcome to India. Land in Delhi and transfer to hotel |
| Day 2 | Delhi to Varanasi ( Flight) |
| Day 3 | Morning Ganges River boat ride and walking tour |
| Day 4 | Varanasi to Khajuraho (Flight). Afternoon Temple tour |
| Day 5 | Travel to Jhansi and onwards to Agra by train |
| Day 6 | Visit the famous Taj Mahal and Agra Fort |
| Day 7 | Stop at Fatehpur Sikri before reaching Jaipur |
| Day 8 | Jaipur city tour and Amber Fort on elephant back |
| Day 9 | Return to Delhi |
| Day 10 | Morning city tour and transfer to Delhi Airport |
Quick Contact
Itinerary
Varanasi – Khajuraho (B)
- After breakfast, you are transferred to Varanasi airport to board your flight for Khajuraho.
- You will be met and assisted; through the airport upon your arrival and then transferred to your hotel.
- Enjoy an afternoon sightseeing tour of the temple.
- Overnight at your hotel in Khajuraho
Khujuraho – Orcha – Jhansi (B)
- After breakfast, drive to Jhansi.
- En route visit Orcha and later in the day transfer to the station and board the train for Agra.
- You will be met and assisted; on your arrival and then transferred to your hotel.
- Overnight at your hotel in Agra.
Agra (B)
- Morning tour of the Taj Mahal & Fort.
- Visit the world famous Taj Mahal built by Shah Jahan in 1560 in memory of his queen Mumtaz Mahal to enshrine her mortal remains.
- This architectural marvel is a perfectly proportioned masterpiece fashioned from white marble that stands testimony to the skill of 20;000 craftsmen brought together from Persia; Turkey; France and Italy and who took 17 years to complete this ‘Love Poem in Marble’. (Friday closed).
- Later visit the Agra fort containing the halls of private & public audiences & other palaces. Shah Jahan spent years of confinement here at the hands of his son Aurangzeb; looking wistfully at the Taj Mahal from the Fort.
- Overnight at your hotel in Agra.
Inclusions
- Meet and assist on arrival and departure by our local representative
- Sightseeing tours and intercity transfers as per itinerary in AC vehicle
- 9 Nights’ Accommodation at selected hotels in a double room sharing
- Meals: as mentioned
- Local English Speaking Guide
- Jaipur offers sightseeing tour with an elephant ride/jeep ride
Exclusions
- International/Domestic flights – Departure & Fuel taxes (Contact us for best airfares)
- Personal expenses, meals and drinks unless otherwise specified
- Travel insurance
- India visa fee
- Tips
- Entrance fees
- Services not stated in the itinerary
Validity
- Rate valid for travel between 01 NOV 24 to 31 MAR 25
High Season applicable for travel between 20 DEC 24 and 10 JAN 25
Contact us for any other date of travel required
Country information
India’s Different Seasons
India climate is considered hot; however, the weather varies a lot depending on which part of the country you visit. The South has Monsoons whereas the North may be covered in snow. The best time to travel is between October and March (except for the Far North, where you will encounter winter conditions from November onwards)
Overview of food & drink
India’s food is tantalizing and spicy and comes in so many varieties. Rice is the foundation of each dish. This does not exclude a number for breads from light to roasted. Northern Indian food mostly consists of meaty stews and kebabs. Southern India is known for its spiced vegetarian curries and dosas. Goa and Kerala will serve you the best seafood dishes.
Drink only bottled water during your stay in India. Nimbu Pani (Lemonade) is a traditional and most common Indian drink, made of lemon and ginger juice. Coconut water is preferred by many locals across India. Toddy is a famous alcoholic drink in Madhya Pradesh that is made from various palm plants. Jal Jeera, the magical drink to survive the hot Indian Summers
Tipping
Usually, add 10 to 15% when eating out. Restaurants in Delhi and Mumbai often charge a ‘service charge’, not to be confused with ‘service tax’ (which is a government-levied tax). When a ‘service charge’ is levied no tip is expected. When you have a driver over multiple days you should tip him between 150 – 300 INR per day. Again, base this on how happy you were with his service and local knowledge
Culture and Language
It’s traditional to greet people using ‘Namaste’; place both hands together and bow slightly. In urban areas this is often overlooked. Indian culture is based on a hierarchical system, so elders and superior are greeted first. Avoid standing too close to others. Use your right hand to touch, accept or give something. Do not use public displays of affection. Hindi is the official language, but English is widely spoken throughout the country
Getting around in India
Air carriers serve all major cities and large towns. There are several domestic “low Budget” options
Taxis and auto rickshaws are a very popular way of getting around the major cities. These rides are charged by the kilometer. Insist that your vehicle has a meter before going on your journey. Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai have metro systems. Rail is India is widely available. Shatabdi Express connects major and secondary cities. Advanced reservations are essential
Here are some traditional dishes
Alu Gobi: a dish made with potatoes (aloo), cauliflower (gobi) and Indian spices
Butter Chicken: traditionally cooked in a tandoor; but may be grilled, roasted or pan-fried with a special gravy
Rogan Josh: consists of braised lamb chunks cooked with a gravy based on browned onions or shallots, yogurt, garlic, ginger and aromatic spices
Malai Kofta: cooked in a creamy gravy made of tomatoes and cashew nuts
Naan: leavened, oven-baked flatbread normally served with all meals
Right through the ages, Hiuen Tsang, Vasco Da Gama and a host of other explorers have considered it to be the ultimate goal of travel. Now it is your turn to see India sacred and mystic cities.
India remains one of the most intriguing places on the planet.