The Gangetic Plains
Explore the historic cities of India, tracing the sacred Ganges and its tributaries through landscapes shaped by centuries of faith, culture and history. From the Mughal grandeur of Agra and the historic fortresses of Gwalior and Orchha to the magnificent temples of Khajuraho and the spiritual heart of Varanasi, this journey offers a fascinating insight into the traditions and heritage of central and northern India. Along the way, discover how the Ganges sustains millions of people, providing both physical nourishment and profound spiritual significance, while experiencing the remarkable cultures and stories that have flourished along its banks.
Journey Highlights
Walk through the vibrant lanes of Chandni Chowk Bazaar in Old Delhi
Witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise, one of the world's most iconic monuments
See the Gwalior's little-visited Fort
Step back in time amid magnificent palaces, grand temples and the medieval charm of the historic riverside town of Orchha
Explore Khajuraho's quirky temples
Attend the evening prayer ceremony around the Ganges in Varanasi
Itinerary
DAY 01
Arrive Delhi
On arrival in Delhi, you’ll be met by your Indus Bound Representative and transferred to your hotel, where you’ll be staying for two nights. Spend the remainder of the day recovering from your journey, and perhaps a stroll around the local neighborhood later.
DAY 02
In Delhi
Explore the contrasts of Delhi, beginning in Old Delhi with a cycle rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk and a visit to Jama Masjid. Continue to New Delhi to see Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar and Bangla Sahib Sikh Temple, where you can experience the community kitchen.
DAY 03
Drive to Agra
Drive to Agra (3–4 hours) and explore the city's magnificent Mughal heritage. Visit the imposing Agra Fort, renowned for its blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, before continuing to the exquisite marble tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, often called the 'Baby Taj'.
DAY 04
Drive to Gwalior
An early start this morning is well worth it for the breathtaking sight of the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when the monument is bathed in soft morning light and the crowds are at their lightest. Return to your hotel for breakfast before driving towards Gwalior (3–4 hours), passing through scenic villages and charming towns along the way.
DAY 05
Drive to Orchha
Visit the imposing Gwalior Fort and Scindia Museum, before admiring the intricately carved Jain and Hindu temples. Later, drive towards Orchha (02–03 Hrs), a charming historic town famed for magnificent palaces and temples.
DAY 06
Drive to Khajuraho
Explore the historic hamlet of Orchha, where magnificent temples and palaces built by the Bundela kings stand scattered along the banks of the tranquil Betwa River. In the afternoon, continue your journey with a scenic drive to Khajuraho (3–4 hours).
DAY 07
In Khajuraho
Today is dedicated to exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples of Khajuraho, renowned for their exquisite and intricate carvings. Admire the remarkable blend of Hindu and Jain temples, adorned with elaborate sculptures that rank among the finest examples of medieval Indian art and architecture.
DAY 08
Fly to Varanasi
Take a short flight to Varanasi and relax at your hotel. This evening, enjoy a private boat ride along the sacred Ganges, witnessing the mesmerising Ganga Aarti, as priests offer prayers and lamps while devotees gather along the illuminated ghats.
DAY 09
In Varanasi
Enjoy an early morning boat ride along the sacred River Ganges, witnessing the timeless rituals and daily life unfolding along its banks. Later, explore Varanasi’s vibrant markets, narrow lanes, and ancient temples on foot, before an afternoon excursion to the historic Buddhist site of Sarnath.
DAY 10
Fly to Delhi
At the appropriate time, fly to Delhi and spend the day at leisure, with time to relax, enjoy some last-minute shopping, or visit any places of interest you may have missed.
DAY 11
Departure
At the appropriate time, transfer to Delhi Airport for your flight back home, or continue your onward journey with us.
Enquiry
Starting from USD 1180 Per Person*
* lean season and based on comfortable hotels
Price is based on double occupancy and is subject to change depending on the hotels selected and travel dates.
Your tour includes daily breakfast, all monument entrance fees, expert local guides, domestic flights, airport transfers, a private chauffeur-driven air-conditioned SUV, and all applicable taxes.
“Khajuraho is a celebration of life, love and spirituality, where exquisite temples rise from the landscape and every intricately carved figure tells a story of India's rich artistic, cultural and spiritual heritage.”
Hotel Ideas
These are some of the recommended hotels for your private tour
The Imperial
New Delhi
OPULENT, HERITAGE
The Claridges
New Delhi
FIRST CLASS, HERITAGE
Colonels Retreat
New Delhi
BASIC, B&B
The Oberoi Amarvilas
Agra
OPULENT
ITC Mughal
Agra
FIRST CLASS
Coral Tree Homestay
Agra
BASIC, HOMESTAY
Taj Usha Kiran Palace
Gwalior
OPULENT, HERITAGE
The Lalit Temple View
Khajuraho
FIRST CLASS
Brijrama Palace
Varanasi
OPULENT, HERITAGE
Guleria Kothi
Varanasi
MID RANGE, HERITAGE
"An incredible trip to India"
Dear Pankaj, you delivered what we had been missing during our last six trips to India—a truly authentic Indian experience! Every part of the journey felt thoughtfully planned, allowing us to connect with the culture, people, and destinations in a much more meaningful way. A piece of advice for anyone hesitating to work with you: If you are tired of cookie-cutter tours and are looking for an authentic, personalised travel experience in India, you are absolutely in the right place. Thank you for creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.
Ms Elaine & Mr Wayne Helson, UK
"Nothing Short of Extraordinary"
We have had the most amazing time, great hotels and great experiences. Our drivers and guides have been excellent, in particular Govinder Raj who has been our driver and companion for the last ten days. Govinder has been extremely obliging and has made sure we have been safe and where we should be, on time, with all our belongings and with a stack of goodies and water. He has kept the car immaculate both inside and out, and has driven us with care and skill on all our journeys. Your planning of all the inclusions such are the ceremonies at temples, boat rides and the Everest Flight made the whole trip one never to forget.
Mr & Mrs Davies-Webb, UK
"Highly Recommended"
I wanted to take the time to thank you for all the hard work you put in to arrange a magical honeymoon for us. We had a ball. All the transfers worked like clockwork, the hotels were great and the route planning excellent. We really felt we were spoon-fed all the way through.
Ms Gayle Rawes & Mr Andrew Slatford, UK
"Superb Service"
The outcome of this trip far exceeded our expectations and we would recommend your agency without any reservation. Our sincerest thanks for a well planned and executed tour.
Mr Eugene & Ms Mirasol Johnson, USA
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