Best of North India Tour | Tourrnival Jourrneys

Best of North India

Tournival Journeys

Start:

End:

New Delhi

Duration

New Delhi

13 Days

4-16

Group Size

Minimum Age

Theme

Culture

From

INR 1,63,999

Book Now

Overview

Itinerary

Inclusions & Exclusions

More info

Welcome to Delhi, India’s vibrant capital and the historic gateway to North India! A fascinating tapestry of ancient empires, modern political power, and endless energy, Delhi is famously known as a city with a big heart—where centuries-old history seamlessly meets dynamic contemporary life.

Upon landing at Delhi Airport before noon, your Tournivval Journeys private chauffeur will greet you at the terminal and transfer you comfortably to your hotel for check-in and time to refresh.

In the late afternoon, set out to explore the stately heart of New Delhi, the political pulse of the nation. Enjoy a scenic drive along sweeping, tree-lined avenues past Rashtrapati Bhavan (the magnificent official residence of the President of India) and the iconic Parliament House.

Continue along Rajpath (Kartavya Path), the ceremonial boulevard anchoring the capital, toward the impressive stone archway of India Gate. Standing 42 meters high and echoing the Arc de Triomphe, this moving war memorial honors the 70,000 soldiers of the British Indian Army who lost their lives in World War I, serving as an enduring national monument to India's unsung heroes.

Return to your hotel by late evening to unwind and settle in for your journey through North India.

Overnight: Hotel in Delhi

Meals Included: None
Enjoy a delicious breakfast before embarking on a captivating journey through the historic heart of Delhi with your Tournivval Journeys guide, discovering how centuries of imperial rule shape the city's lively culture today.

Your morning begins at Humayun’s Tomb, an extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site built in 1570. As the first Persian-style garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, its striking symmetry and red sandstone grandeur famously served as the architectural blueprint for the Taj Mahal.

From there, venture into Old Delhi to marvel at the magnificent Jama Masjid. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656, this monumental red sandstone structure remains India’s largest mosque.

Directly outside lies Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest and busiest heritage markets in the capital. Climb into a traditional rickshaw to weave through its bustling, spice-scented alleyways—an iconic Delhi experience packed with colorful storefronts and everyday energy.

In the afternoon, head south to explore the sprawling complex of Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Soaring 73 meters into the sky, this intricate, five-storey tapering tower was commissioned in 1192 by Qutb ud Din Aibak, founder of the Delhi Sultanate, marking the dawn of Islamic architecture in northern India.

Conclude your day with a soul-stirring visit to Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of the most prominent Sikh houses of worship in the city. Associated with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru Har Krishan, this serene shrine features gleaming golden domes, a magnificent community kitchen (langar), and a tranquil sacred pool known as the Sarovar.

After an inspiring day of exploration, enjoy dinner at a handpicked local restaurant before returning to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Overnight: Hotel in Delhi

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Savor breakfast before checking out of your hotel in Delhi. Transfer to the railway station to board a morning superfast train bound for Gwalior. Watch the North Indian countryside roll by as you travel toward this historic city in Madhya Pradesh. Founded by King Surajesan, Gwalior is a city steeped in royal glory, celebrated for its hilltop fort, magnificent palaces, and rich musical traditions.

Upon arriving at Gwalior Railway Station around noon, your Tournivval Journeys private chauffeur will greet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in and time to refresh.

In the afternoon, set out to explore the monumental Gwalior Fort, dramatically perched atop the steep Gopachal sandstone hill. Once described by Emperor Babur as "the pearl among fortresses of India," it offers sweeping panoramic views across the sprawling city below. Inside the fort complex, explore:

Man Mandir Palace: Famous for its striking turquoise-tiled exterior and intricate medieval architecture.

Gujari Mahal: A 15th-century palace built by Raja Man Singh Tomar for his queen, Mrignayani.

Sahastrabahu Temple (Sas-Bahu Temple): A pair of stunning 11th-century temples renowned for their intricate stone carvings and craftsmanship.

Afterward, visit the modern, red-sandstone Sun Temple (inspired by the famous Konark shrine) and pay homage at the peaceful Tomb of Tansen, dedicated to the legendary 16th-century classical musician who was one of the "Nine Gems" in Emperor Akbar's court.

Return to your hotel by evening to relax after a day of discovery.

Overnight: Hotel in Gwalior

Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out and setting off on a scenic drive toward Khajuraho, situated in the heart of Madhya Pradesh. Celebrated worldwide as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khajuraho is home to one of India’s most awe-inspiring achievements in temple architecture and stone craftsmanship.

Built by the Chandela dynasty between the 9th and 11th centuries, these legendary temples are famous for their remarkable sculptural detail. The temple walls serve as a vivid narrative of medieval Indian life—depicting scenes of spiritual meditation, royalty, warfare, dance, and daily human kinship, alongside the exquisite, celebrated erotic art for which Khajuraho is world-renowned.

Arrive in Khajuraho by early evening and check into your hotel. The remainder of the evening is yours at leisure to relax and unwind after your drive.

Overnight: Hotel in Khajuraho

Meals Included: Breakfast
After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, set out for a full day of exploration, discovering both the monumental art and natural wonders of Khajuraho.

Begin your morning with a guided tour of the world-famous Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a magnificent complex of Hindu and Jain temples built between 950 CE and 1050 CE by the visionary Chandela rulers. Celebrated for their distinctive Nagara-style architecture and expressive stone carvings, these temples offer a profound glimpse into ancient Indian philosophy, aesthetics, and everyday life.

Among the 25 surviving temples, you will explore the crowning achievement of the complex: the grand Kandariya Mahadeva Temple. Soaring gracefully toward the sky, its walls are adorned with hundreds of intricately detailed sculptures showcasing remarkable craftsmanship, spiritual symbolism, and celebrated art.

In the afternoon, head roughly 20 km outside the city to visit the breathtaking Raneh Falls. Here, the Ken River has carved a deep, dramatic canyon out of crystalline granite in stunning shades of red, pink, and grey. Watch as a series of waterfalls cascade over the colorful rock formations into the gorge below—a mesmerizing natural spectacle unique to this region.

Return to your hotel by evening to relax and unwind after a day filled with art and nature.

Overnight: Hotel in Khajuraho

Meals Included: Breakfast
Savor breakfast at your hotel before checking out and departing for the historic village of Orchha. Nestled along the boulder-strewn banks of the peaceful Betwa River, Orchha is a hidden jewel frozen in time, where monumental palaces, soaring spires, and dramatic cenotaphs (chhatris) rise gracefully above a tranquil pastoral landscape.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take time to refresh.

In the afternoon, head out to explore the impressive Orchha Fort complex, dramatically situated on a seasonal island within the Betwa River. Step back into the era of the Bundela kings as you discover the fort's magnificent royal residences:

Jahangir Mahal: A magnificent multi-storeyed palace built as a welcome gift for the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, featuring delicate stone latticework, grand courtyards, and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Raj Mahal: One of Orchha's oldest structures, renowned for its stately architecture and vibrant, remarkably preserved ceiling murals depicting mythological tales.

Rai Parveen Mahal: A graceful, light-filled palace set within manicured gardens, dedicated to the famed 17th-century poetess, musician, and courtesan Rai Parveen.

Return to your hotel in the evening to relax. Enjoy a warm dinner at the hotel before settling in for a comfortable overnight stay.

Overnight: Hotel in Orchha

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Enjoy breakfast before checking out of your hotel and embarking on your drive toward Agra, the legendary historic capital of the Mughal Empire. Famous around the globe as the home of the Taj Mahal, Agra is a city steeped in imperial legacy, grand architecture, and timeless romance.

Arrive in Agra by late afternoon, check into your hotel, and take time to refresh.

Shortly after, set out to explore the monumental Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1638. Stroll through soaring red-sandstone gateways, grand courtyards, and delicate marble palaces while your guide brings to life fascinating stories of imperial power, courtly intrigue, and artistic vision.

In the evening, experience the city's vibrant local atmosphere with a visit to Agra's bustling local markets, renowned for exquisite marble inlay work, leather craftsmanship, and traditional sweets.

Afterward, enjoy dinner at a handpicked local restaurant before returning to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Overnight: Hotel in Agra

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Early this morning, experience a truly breathtaking spectacle as you visit the iconic Taj Mahal at sunrise. Watch the soft morning light gently illuminate the gleaming white marble domes of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in loving memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal to enshrine her mortal remains.

Return to your hotel for breakfast, check out, and set off on your drive toward Jaipur. En route, take a short detour to the rural village of Abhaneri to marvel at Chand Baori. Constructed in the 9th century for water harvesting, this incredible architectural marvel plunges 100 feet deep with 13 perfectly symmetrical, geometric levels—making it one of India's largest and deepest ancient stepwells.

Continue your journey into Rajasthan toward Jaipur, famously known as the "Pink City" for its grand broad avenues, imposing forts, royal palaces, and vibrant cultural pride.

Arrive in Jaipur by late afternoon, check into your hotel, and take a moment to unwind. In the evening, head out for an immersive guided walking tour through the lively Pink City bazaars. A true shopper's paradise, the colorful markets glint with rows of artisanal shops offering handcrafted bangles, traditional textiles, silver jewelry, and vibrant Rajasthani handicrafts.

Return to your hotel by late evening for a comfortable overnight stay.

Overnight: Hotel in Jaipur

Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast before setting out for a full day of exploration through the grand heritage of the Pink City.

Begin your morning at the iconic Hawa Mahal ("Palace of Winds"). Featuring an extraordinary five-storey lattice facade with hundreds of small windows (jharokhas), this architectural marvel was designed so royal women could observe vibrant street life and procession festivals without being seen from the outside.

Continue to Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Completed in 1738 CE by the visionary Rajput King Sawai Jai Singh, this fascinating open-air observatory features 19 architectural stone astronomical instruments—including the world's largest stone sundial—capable of tracking celestial bodies with remarkable precision.

From there, step into the grand City Palace complex. Blending Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, this sprawling complex continues to serve as the residence of the Jaipur royal family and houses the renowned Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, showcasing exquisite royal garments, weapons, courtyard pavilions, and art galleries.

In the late afternoon, drive into the rugged Aravalli Hills on the outskirts of Jaipur to visit Galtaji Temple (famously known as the Monkey Temple). Nestled within a dramatic mountain gorge, this ancient pink-sandstone pilgrimage complex features sacred natural water tanks (kunds), tranquil springs, intricate temple pavilions, and a lively population of resident monkeys.

After a day filled with history and culture, enjoy dinner at a handpicked local restaurant before returning to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Overnight: Hotel in Jaipur

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, set out for an unforgettable day exploring the mighty hill forts and serene lakeside architecture that define Jaipur’s royal grandeur.

Your morning begins with a scenic stop at Jal Mahal (the Water Palace), a romantic 17th-century palace floating gracefully in the middle of Man Sagar Lake.

Continue to the iconic Amer Fort (Amber Fort), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Jaipur's premier architectural attraction. Built in the late 16th century by Rajput rulers out of pale yellow and pink sandstone blended with white marble, this massive fortress spans four expansive courtyards, grand audience halls, and intricate, mirror-lined private chambers.

Next, drive higher along the ridge to Jaigarh Fort, commissioned in 1726 by Sawai Jai Singh II as a formidable defense post to protect Amer Fort below. Ringed by massive stone battlements and lush hilltop greenery, Jaigarh houses the world's largest cannon on wheels—the famous 'Jaivana'—and offers magnificent sweeping views across the valley.

As evening approaches, ascend to Nahargarh Fort, perched dramatically on the edge of the Aravalli hills. Offering an unparalleled bird’s-eye view of the entire Pink City glowing in the twilight, it is the perfect spot to unwind. You can enjoy the views from the hilltop food court or relax at the renowned Padao restaurant high above the lights of Jaipur.

Return to your hotel by late evening to rest and reflect on a full day of royal discovery.

Overnight: Hotel in Jaipur

Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Jaipur before checking out. Your private driver will transfer you to Jaipur Airport for your domestic flight to Varanasi (historically known as Kashi, the "City of Light," or Benares).

Revered as one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in human history, Varanasi sits along the holy banks of the River Ganges. For millennia, pilgrims from across the globe have drawn to its iconic ghats to perform sacred bathing rituals, seek spiritual liberation, and celebrate the timeless cycle of life.

Upon landing at Varanasi Airport, your Tournivval Journeys private driver will greet you at the terminal and transfer you to your hotel for check-in and time to relax.

In the evening, set out to explore the vibrant local markets and winding alleyways of Varanasi. Dive into the city's world-famous street food culture—sampling regional delicacies like warm, spiced kachoris, rich malaiyyo (seasonal milk foam), creamy rabri, and the legendary Banarasi paan.

Return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Overnight: Hotel in Varanasi

Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day before dawn with a serene sunrise rowing boat ride along the Ganges River (between 5:30 AM and 7:00 AM). As the soft morning light touches the water, watch the riverbanks come alive with spiritual fervor—witnessing pilgrims performing morning ablutions, ancient chants, and centuries-old rituals along the historic ghats.

Return to your hotel for breakfast and enjoy the rest of the morning at your leisure.

At noon, set out on a short excursion to Sarnath (approx. 10 km from Varanasi), one of the world's most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. It was here in the ancient Deer Park that Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Key highlights include:

Dhamekha Stupa: A massive, soaring cylindrical monument marking the exact spot where the voice of Buddhism was first proclaimed.

Sarnath Archaeological Museum: The oldest site museum of the Archaeological Survey of India (built in 1910), displaying rare antiquities from the 3rd century BCE to the 12th century CE. It houses the world-famous Lion Capital of Ashoka (c. 250 BCE), four standing lions that now serve as the official national emblem of India.

In the late afternoon, visit Varanasi’s celebrated silk market, world-famous for its exquisite hand-woven Banarasi silk sarees, rich brocades, and intricate gold thread work (zari).

As dusk falls, head to Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti. Experience a grand, highly synchronized ritual of glowing brass lamps, wafting incense, rhythmic bells, and chanting priests honoring the holy river.

Return to your hotel after the ceremony for a restful evening.

Overnight: Hotel in Varanasi

Meals Included: Breakfast
Savor your final breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Your Tournivval Journeys private driver will meet you in the lobby and transfer you to Varanasi Airport to board your domestic flight to Delhi, connecting to your onward or international departure flight home.

As your extraordinary 13-day journey through North India comes to a close, bid farewell to a land of unparalleled history, sacred traditions, and vibrant culture. You leave with timeless memories—from the grand avenues of imperial Delhi and the royal fortresses of Gwalior and Jaipur to the artistic masterpieces of Khajuraho, the romantic icon of the Taj Mahal, and the spiritual waters of Varanasi.

Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back on your next grand journey!

Meals Included: Breakfast

Itinerary

Overview

A two week North India tour highlights the best of Rajasthan, the sublime Taj Mahal, the aesthetics of Khajuraho temples and the eternal Varanasi.

Kickstart your cultural adventure with an introduction to the contrasting faces of bustling Delhi. Visit the historic cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur to get awed by imposing forts, luxurious palaces and beautiful temples. At the same time, you also experience authentic local culture and discover the region’s hidden gems. Marvel at the eternal beauty of the sublime Taj Mahal. Gaze in awe at the seductive craftsmanship of Khajuraho. Take a break from the busy cities and spend some time wandering around the delightful town of Orchha. On an early morning boat ride, get a glimpse of one of the oldest living cities.

Inclusions

12 nights’ accommodation on double/twin sharing at 4-star hotels, 5-star hotels & boutique homestay mentioned or similar.
12 Breakfasts & 04 Dinners included at the hotels/ restaurants as per the itinerary.
Super-fast AC train tickets for Delhi-Gwalior journey.
Entrance fees for all monuments mentioned in the itinerary.
English speaking guides for all sightseeing.
Transfers & sightseeing as per itinerary in a private sedan car (Toyota Etios) with a driver (all tolls, fuel charges, parking charges & driver allowances included).
Economy class air-tickets for Jaipur-Varanasi & Varanasi-Delhi flights (15kg per person checked baggage allowance).
24x7 customer support throughout the entire trip.

Exclusions

International Flights.
Meals (unless specified).
Tips & personal expenses.

Tournival Journeys

Start:

End:

Delhi

Duration

Delhi

13 Days

Max People

Minimum Age

Theme

Heritage

From

INR 1,63,999

Book Now

Itinerary

Exclusions

International Flights.
Meals (unless specified).
Tips & personal expenses.

Inclusions

12 nights’ accommodation on double/twin sharing at 4-star hotels, 5-star hotels & boutique homestay mentioned or similar.
12 Breakfasts & 04 Dinners included at the hotels/ restaurants as per the itinerary.
Super-fast AC train tickets for Delhi-Gwalior journey.
Entrance fees for all monuments mentioned in the itinerary.
English speaking guides for all sightseeing.
Transfers & sightseeing as per itinerary in a private sedan car (Toyota Etios) with a driver (all tolls, fuel charges, parking charges & driver allowances included).
Economy class air-tickets for Jaipur-Varanasi & Varanasi-Delhi flights (15kg per person checked baggage allowance).
24x7 customer support throughout the entire trip.

Exclusions

International Flights.
Meals (unless specified).
Tips & personal expenses.

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