Arrive in Delhi

Delhi is the capital, and third largest city of India. Delhi is actually twin cities comprised of Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi was the capital of India during Muslim rule from the 12th to the 19th century. New Delhi was established in 1911 by King George V who, feeling Calcutta was too remote, wanted a new capital for the Indian Empire. Delhi is a kaleidoscope that promises everything for a tourist—historic sites, divine retreats, heritage, tourism, theme parks, museums, gardens, galleries, film festivals, great shopping, temples and more.

Please time your arrival into Delhi at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) at any convenient time today. Touring does not commence until tomorrow, but your hotel room will be available for check-in any time after 3pm today. You will be personally greeted at the International Airport upon arrival, presented with a fresh flower garland, and transferred to our hotel to enjoy some restful sleep after the long flight. As flights typically arrive very late, no meals are included today. Our time in Delhi is short, so we encourage you to consider arriving a day or two early to make the most of your visit to this city. We will be happy to assist with an extended hotel stay and private sightseeing upon request. (Meals Aloft)

Delhi Sightseeing / Welcome Dinner

Sleep in a bit this morning, and after breakfast we have a civilized 11am start for our tour of Old and New Delhi. In the midst of the old walled city stands the great Jama Masjid, the principal mosque of the city, built in 1656 CE by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It is the largest and best-known mosque in India. After visiting the mosque, take a rickshaw ride through Chandi Chowk, the old marketplace and now a picturesque bazaar, ending at the entrance to the Red Fort, built in the year 1648 by Shah Jahan.

After lunch, drive to the enormous Akshardham Temple Complex that depicts the Hindu mythology and Indian culture. Build over an area of 100 acres on the banks of the Yamuna River, it took more than two years for construction and cost around 2 billion rupees, funded by millions of Bochasanvasi Aksharpurushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) followers worldwide. The temple has 234 ornate pillars, 20,000 statues and many arches. Besides the Swaminarayan temple, the complex consists of a monument to World Peace, exhibition halls, an IMAX theatre and a musical fountain, surrounded by a garden.

Following a full and exciting day of touring, we return to the hotel. This evening, our group gathers in the hotel bar for cocktails and introductions all around, followed by our Welcome Dinner at Chore Bizarre Restaurant. Overnight in Delhi. (Breakfast / Lunch / Welcome Cocktail and Dinner)

Qutub Minar / Fly to Bodhgaya

After breakfast, drive to Qutub Minar, built in the year 1206. It is the tallest brick minaret in the world and an important example of Indo-Islamic Architecture. Adjacent to the site of Qutub Minar is the Jamali-Kamali Mosque and Tomb, which is of special significance to gay travelers. Jamali was a popular Sufi who became court poet and enjoyed the patronage of the Mughal rulers, Babur and his son Humayun. His poetry mirrored Persian mysticism of the times. Kamali was Jamali’s disciple and his lover, according to the oral stories and traditions. It is seen that even though they were both males, as signified by a symbolic pen box on each of their graves, their graves are placed in a manner that implies that they were lovers.

Later, transfer to the airport for Indigo flight 6E 448, departing at 14.25 and arriving in Bodhgaya at 16.00. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and the remainder of the day is free for independent activities

Bodhgaya is one of the most important and sacred Buddhist pilgrimage centers in the world. It was here under a banyan tree, the Bodhi Tree, Siddhartha Gautama attained supreme knowledge to become Buddha, the Enlightened One. The serenity of the atmosphere remains in the subconscious soul of any visitor who takes the village as a pilgrimage that the Lord himself had chosen for meditation.

There is a magnificent Mahabodhi temple and the Tree from the original sapling still stands in the temple premises. The temple is an architectural amalgamation of many centuries, cultures and heritages. While its architecture has a distinct stamp of the Gupta era, it has later ages inscriptions describing visits of pilgrims from Sri Lanka, Myanmar and China between 7th and 10th century AD. It is perhaps still the same temple Hieuen Tsang visited in 7th century. (Breakfast / Dinner)

Touring Bodhgaya

Drive to Varanasi / Sunset Aarti Ceremony

After breakfast, we begin our drive to Varanasi, a journey of approximately five hours with stops. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel for a brief rest.

Later in the afternoon, we'll take a rickshaw ride to the Old City, where you'll have time to explore the bustling lanes around the Ganges. We'll walk through the narrow, cobbled alleyways, browsing bazaars and observing the locals as they prepare for the evening aarti ceremony.

Just before sunset, we'll witness the beautiful aarti, a fire ceremony performed by Hindu priests on the banks of the River Ganges. The sights and sounds of this event will stay with you for a lifetime. Dinner at Varuna Restaurant. (All Meals)

Varanasi and Sarnath

Rise before dawn for a boat ride on the Ganges to observe the solemn sunrise ceremonies. Witness the riverbanks humming with activity as Hindu devotees perform their rituals on the "ghats" steps and offer prayers to the rising sun. Then, on to Bharat Mata Temple with its marble relief map of an undivided India, Durga Temple, and Benaras Hindu University.

After the early morning tour, return to the hotel for breakfast. A stay in Varanasi would not be complete without a stop at the famous silk weavers: Mehta Silk. Browse beautiful silk brocades, scarves, sarees and decorative household items, all crafted by highly skilled weavers. Leisure time for shopping in the bustling bazaars.

After lunch at a local restaurant, drive to Sarnath, the holy city where Buddha preached his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The major events of Buddha's life are depicted in colorful wall paintings. Visit the Deer Park, Museum and Buddhist Temple. Dinner at The Great Kabab Factory. (All Meals)

Ayodhya and the Diwali Festival

After breakfast, we begin our journey to Ayodhya, a drive of approximately five hours with stops. Known as the birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya holds immense spiritual significance for Hindu devotees. Historically, the city was called Saketa and served as the capital of the ancient Kosala Kingdom. As one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Hinduism, Ayodhya attracts countless pilgrims seeking to connect with its profound religious heritage.

Upon arriving, we check into our hotel and enjoy free time for lunch at the hotel's restaurant (not included) and some rest. Later this afternoon, we stroll through the alleys and markets of Ayodhya to immerse ourselves in its culture and heritage. We’ll see houses adorned with 'rangoli' (intricate designs and patterns on the ground), hanging lanterns, and countless 'diyas' (earthen oil lamps).

In the late afternoon, we proceed to Ram Ki Paidi, a series of ghats on the banks of the Saryu River, where devotees take a sacred bath in the holy waters. Pilgrims from all over India and far-flung corners of the world gather here for this special event. During Diwali, the Ramkatha (the story of Lord Ram) is performed annually, alongside cultural events featuring international performers. In the evening, after the Ramkatha, a 'puja' is conducted and the Diwali is celebrated with much rejoicing. Savor traditional sweets before returning to the hotel for dinner and a restful night. (Breakfast / Dinner)

Touring Ayodhya / Drive to Lucknow

After breakfast, we continue our sightseeing in Ayodhya. Our tour includes visits to:j

Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir: This monumental Ram Temple was inaugurated in January of 2024 and is situated at the place where Lord Rama was born.

Hanuman Garhi Temple: This must-see temple is located in the center of Ayodhya. It is important not only for religious reasons, but also for its architecture. It is shaped like a four-sided fort with circular ramparts at each corner, housing shrines dedicated to the primary deity Hanuman.

Kanak Bhawan: Located near Hanuman Garhi, it is believed that this palace (temple) was gifted by Queen Kaikeyi (Lord Ram’s step-mother) to Devi Sita and Lord Ram immediately after their marriage, and served as their primary residence.

Dashrath Mahal: This is the original residence of King Dashrath who was the ruler of Ayodhya and the father of Lord Shri Ram.

Ram Darbar: This is the court, or assembly, of Lord Rama and is a divine representation of his kingdom and his rules. This link takes you to an interesting article about the controversy surrounding the construction of the Ram Mandir, and a brief survey of many of the sites listed above, including the Ram Darbar.

After lunch, we begin our drive to Lucknow, a journey of approximately three hours. As the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow is often described as the 'City of Nawabs.' It is one of India's most pristine and multicultural tourist destinations. The city primarily flourished during the 18th and 19th centuries as an artistic and cultural center under the reign of the Nawabs of Awadh. Today, it is the second-largest city in North India and the 11th largest in the country, renowned for its architectural wonders, historical monuments, diverse cuisines, and vibrant cultural scene.

Lucknow is also a paradise for food lovers. From royal dishes to kebabs, paans, and biryanis, the city's narrow alleyways are full of culinary gems waiting to be discovered. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy independent activities. (All Meals)

Touring Lucknow

We spend the full day visiting the incredible highlights of Lucknow, including:

Bara Imambara: This monumental Ram Temple was inaugurated in January of 2024 and is situated at the place where Lord Rama was born.

Rumi Darwaza: Just beyond Bara Imambara is the ornamental gateway sometimes known as the Turkish Gate. It was built by Nawab Asaf-Ud-Daula in 1784. It is an example of Awadhi architecture. The Rumi Darwaza stands sixty feet tall and was modeled after the Sublime Porte (Bab-i-Hümayun) in Istanbul.

Chota Imambara: This magnificent monument, built by Nawab Mohammed Ali Shah, is situated to the left of Rumi Darwaza. It is ornately designed and adorned by Belgian chandeliers, gilt-edged mirrors, colorful stuccos and the king’s brilliant throne which sits in the interior of this tomb.

Shah Najaf Imambara: Constructed by Nawab Ghazi-ud-Din Haider in 1818. He was the last nawab wazir and the first King of the Oudh state in 1818 to 1827. The tombs of the Nawab and his three wives are plated in silver and gold, and the interiors are ornamented with floral designs and chandeliers.

Jama Masjid: This grand mosque was built by Muhammad Ali Shah in typical Mughal style with tall minarets and onion-shaped domes.

The Residency: Built during 1780-1800, it was once the political residence of the British officials. The Residency was subject to the Siege of Lucknow, part of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It suffered extensive damage during the fighting, and has been in ruins ever since.

Sikandar Bagh: It was built by the last Nawab of Oudh, Wajid Ali Shah, as a summer residence. The name of the villa signifies '"Garden of Sikandar", after Sikandar Mahal Begum, the Nawab's favorite wife.

After a very full day of incredible sights, we return to our hotel for dinner and overnight. (All Meals)

Lucknow / Transfer to Rishikesh by air and coach

After breakfast, we visit the stunning Ambedkar Memorial Park, spread across an area of 107 acres of land, the modern architectural monument is dedicated to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, an activist and first law minister of India. The entire monument is built in red sandstone which was brought from Rajasthan. You won’t believe your eyes as you survey the 124 monumental elephants arrayed here amid grand columns and avenues.

Next we transfer to the airport for our IndiGo Air flight 6E 515 departing Lucknow at 14.45 and arriving in Dehradun at 15.55. On arrival we make the short drive to Rishikesh (approx. 1hr). Rishikesh is a holy town with countless Ashrams. It is famous for yoga worldwide and is often called the Yoga Capital of the world.

Rishikesh is also known as gateway to the Char Dham. Char Dham refers to four popular holy temples on the hills (Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri). Thousands of people are attracted every year to Rishikesh for spiritual relief, peace, learning yoga, adventure and to take a dip for salvation. Famous among them were the Beatles, Kate Winslet and many other celebrities. It is believed that by meditating and taking a holy dip in the river Ganges here in Rishikesh one can get "Moksha" -- liberation from the cycle of death and rebirth. On arrival we check in at our hotel and the remainder of the day is free for independent activities. (Breakfast / Dinner)

Full day excursion to Haridwar

We spend today in Haridwar, soaking up the spiritual vibes and visiting various holy places. Stroll through the bustling market (Bara Bazaar), lined with shops selling souvenirs and local crafts. Hop a cable car to the hilltop site of the Mansa Devi Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mansa Devi, who is thought to grant wishes. Tie a sting to the branches of the temple tree if you’d like your wish to be granted.

Next drive to another hill temple, the Chandi Devi Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Chandi Devi (Durga) which is on top of a hill overlooking the Ganges a few miles from Haridwar. We get up to the temple via cable car. Local Indian women will be there performing devotionals to the goddess.

Afterwards, visit Daksheswara Mahadev Temple. This ancient temple is most famous place in Kankhal, a town a few miles from Haridwar. The present temple was built by Queen Dhankaur in 1810 AD and rebuilt in 1962. According to mythological story Sati, Lord Shiva 's first wife, burnt herself in a sacrificial fire. This temple is widely visited by the devotees of Lord Shiva.

This evening, we join hundreds of locals along the banks of the Ganges to attend an ancient prayer ritual. We arrive early to enjoy pre-ceremony festivities on the promenade. There is much excitement in the air as people are bustling about in preparation. The ceremony, called aarti (full name Har ki Pauri) is a mesmerizing experience involving a good amount of chanting and a fire ceremony performed by a Hindu priest. At the conclusion of the ceremony we return to Rishkesh for overnight. (All Meals)

Touring Rishikesh

We start our tour today at Lakshman Jhula, an historic suspension bridge across the Ganges built in the time of the East India Company. It was closed in 2020, so we proceed to the more modern bridge, the Ram Jhula, for crossing. Ram Jhula is dedicated to Lord Ram and his younger brother Lakshman. It is believed Lakshman visited the place after killing Ravana to do the penance for that deed.

From here we commence a walking tour of approx. 3 hours, taking in beautiful views of many temples, ashrams, ghats, bazaars and restaurants lining both banks of the Ganges River. There are also many shops stocked with spiritual books, music, clothes and articles of a spiritual nature along the path.

Along the way we visit the thirteen-story Triyambakeshwar Temple, Gita Bhawan and Parmarth Niketan ashram followed by Bharat Temple – the oldest temple in the main town of Rishikesh. It was built by the great Hindu theologian Adi Shankaracharya in the Eighth century.

We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and then return to the hotel at about 2pm to enjoy quiet time, a walk in the nearby woods, or to indulge your senses with an ayurvedic massage.

In the late evening we walk through the bustling streets and reach the oldest Ghat of Rishikesh called Triveni Ghat. Here we observe the evening aarti, as we have done in Varanasi and Haridwar. After the ceremony we celebrate the conclusion of our Spiritual India tour with a farewell dinner at the Forest View Restaurant. (All Meals)

Fly to Delhi and Home – or – Begin Agra Extension

Enjoy a full morning at leisure today. You might wish to take a yoga class or indulge in a massage. Optional activities this morning and lunch are not included.

In the early afternoon, around 1pm, we transfer to the Dehradun airport to check in for our IndiGo flight 6E 2116. It departs at 15:50 and arrives in Delhi at 16:35.

On arrival in Delhi we transfer to our hotel near the airport where a room will be available to you until time to return to the airport and check in for your international flight back to the United States. (Breakfast)

OPTIONAL EXTENSION TO AGRA

If this is your first trip to India, you will absolutely want to extend your stay so you can visit the incredible Taj Mahal in Agra. Stay with us for a couple more days and get this fabulous monument to love checked off your bucket-list.

Rishikesh to Unchagaon

After breakfast we commence our drive to Unchagaon, an ancient city which is evocative of the old Zamindari lifestyle. Unchagaon is also famous for the Unchagaon Fort. This mud fort was built during 1850s and belonged to Rajput Zamindars. Now it is owned by Raja Surendra Pal Singh, who inherited it at the age of 10. The palace portion was renovated by the Raja and a part of it is now functioning as a heritage hotel where we stay tonight. We check in upon arrival and in the late afternoon visit a nearby village on a bullock cart. Walking through the village gives us an opportunity to observe village life plus a chance to see pottery- and jaggery-making. (All Meals)

Agra Fort and Taj Mahal

After breakfast we commence our drive to Agra (approx. 4 hours). Upon arrival we check in at our hotel and take time for lunch on your own at the hotel’s restaurant.

This afternoon we visit the Agra Fort, built principally as a military establishment by Akbar in 1565. The red sandstone fort was partially converted into a palace during Shah Jahan's time. This massive Fort is 2.5 km long and is considered the predecessor to Delhi’s Red Fort.

Afterwards, as the sun is getting low in the sky, we arrive for our sunset visit to the Taj Mahal. This serene edifice is a jewel of Muslim art and one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture – a style that combines elements from Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish and Indian architectural styles. The Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Dinner tonight is at the Bon Barbecue Restaurant. (Breakfast / Dinner)

Return to Delhi via Mathura – or – Continue to Jaipur

The Taj Mahal is astonishing to see in many different lighting conditions. We saw it at sunset yesterday. For those who would like to have a second look and see it as the sun is rising you have the option to return this morning. Simply indicate you wish to book Taj Sunrise on your reservation form. The cost will be $35 additional, added to your invoice.

After the early Taj visitors have had their breakfast, we commence the drive to Delhi. Along the way we stop to visit the town of Mathura. Mathura (or Brajbhoomi) is famous as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, an important deity in the Hindu religious pantheon. It is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and one of the seven sacred cities in India. Visit the Lord Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple. Lunch at a local restaurant will be paid by you directly.

Afterwards, we continue to Delhi. Upon arrival we check in at our hotel near the airport for a rest and an opportunity to wash and change before proceeding to the airport for late flights back home to the United States. (Breakfast)

OPTIONAL EXTENSION TO JAIPUR

There is a famous tourist circuit in India called the “Golden Triangle,” consisting of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. We want to give first-time travelers to India the chance to complete the final leg of this fabled journey with a tour extension to Jaipur. You won’t want to miss the dazzling Pink City and its famous Amber Fort if you have the time! Plus you get the added bonus of visiting the beautiful ghost city: Fatehpur Sikri.

Fatehpur Sikri / Jaipur

Participants in this extension have the opportunity to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise as described above. Simply indicate you wish to book Taj Sunrise on your reservation form. The cost will be $35 additional, added to your invoice.

After the early Taj visitors have had their breakfast, we commence the drive to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri (approx. 6 hours). Fatehpur Sikri was built in 1571 and is now one of the world’s most perfect ghost cities and a true marvel of design and construction. It is a synthesis of the flourishing styles of the Persian courts and the prevailing Hindu-Islamic trends. Fatehpur (town of victory) Sikri was built by Akbar, the third and greatest of the Great Moguls. It is over 400 years old and today its pristine red sandstone buildings are as perfect as when they were first chiseled.

The town was erected after a holy man, Sheikh Salim Chisti, foretold the births of three sons to Akbar after all his children had died in infancy. There are three sections to the City: The Royal Palace (notable for the Emperor’s throne), the outside of the Royal Palace and the Jami Masjid (the location of the Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti, a masterpiece in brilliant white marble). The centerpiece of this remarkable monument is the Jewel House of the Diwan I Khas. Architecturally extraordinary, the four doorways lead into a single-story room where a huge central pillar supports a seat reached by mid-air walkways.

After visiting Fatehpur Sikri we continue our drive to Jaipur. Upon arrival we check into our hotel and the remainder of the day is free for independent activities. (Breakfast)

Amber Fort / Jaipur City Palace

After breakfast this morning we drive to Amber, the name of the ancient kingdom of Jaipur and also the name of its ancient capital. It is only 7 miles from Jaipur. Its history can be traced backed to the 12th century. The Amber Fort is superbly located, protected by the wild Aravalli Mountains on all sides. Originally built in the 11th century, it was expanded by Raja Mannish in the late 16th century. Our ascent to the Fort will be on elephants, and the return trip will be by jeep. We spend the morning touring this dazzling example of Rajasthani hill forts.

After lunch on our own, we commence our Jaipur city tour. Known as the “Pink City,” Jaipur was founded by Sawai Jai Singh II (1700-1743). It has 7 gates into the city – one for each of the 7 planets (which was the number of planets known at the time of the city’s founding). At the heart of Jaipur is its City Palace which houses an extensive collection of rare manuscripts, Mughal and Rajasthani miniatures, Mughal carpets, costumes and textiles, arms and weapons, royal buggies, chariots and palanquins and a remarkable carriage – the indiraviman – that was drawn by four elephants.

At the center is Chandra Mahal, the seven-tiered moon palace where the present Maharaja still resides. The City Palace complex also contains the Govind Devji Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Just outside the gateway of the City Palace is Jantar Mantar, the celestial observatory park of Sawai Jai Singh II, the last great classical astronomer in India. The modernistic structures, known as Yantras, are the unique creations of this astronomer-king, designed by him and built by experts to observe the movements of the sun, moon, planets and stars. This is the largest of five observatories founded by the astronomer-king in various parts of the country. Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is Jaipur's most-photographed building, a honeycomb palace with 953 latticed windows overlooking the bazaar and busy streets of Jaipur. Built in 1799 by the poet-king Pratap Singh, this extraordinary building was used by purdah-bound women to watch the grand processions that were a regular feature of the city.

At the conclusion of our Jaipur sightseeing tour we return to the hotel for a free evening. Jaipur has a famous art-deco movie palace called the Raj Mandir Cinema. Those who would like to experience a Bollywood movie with the locals (an amazing, audience-participatory experience) have the option to do so tonight. First-run movies sell out. Indicate on your reservation form if you would like to attend and we will purchase tickets for you in advance. (Breakfast)

Return to Delhi / Depart

After breakfast we commence our drive to Delhi (approx. 5 hours). Upon arrival we check in at our hotel near the airport for a chance to wash and change before proceeding to the airport for late flights to the United States. (Breakfast)

EASY TO MODERATE WALKING

This Toto Tours Cultural and Scenic Expedition is accessible and suitable to all those with good health and who are able to walk 2-3 hours without much carrying. This tour is based on moderate city walking for several hours daily. Walks in hill forts, and in hill towns will be more active with some gain and decrease in elevation and possible uneven surfaces. We recommend you commence a daily walking and stair-climbing regimen well in advance of this tour to boost your endurance and enhance your ability to enjoy this adventure to the fullest extent.