North India Uncovered

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Delhi.

On your arrival at Delhi Airport meet your Audley representative and drive to your hotel with your private driver. The afternoon is at leisure, if you want to explore why not head to Lodi Gardens, to enjoy Delhi's greenery and uncover Mughal tombs.

Travel to Agra by road this morning which will take about three hours (or take the train if you prefer). On arrival, you will meet your local guide for a private tour of the impressive Red Fort and the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, fondly known as the 'Baby Taj'. These sites share much history with the Taj Mahal, providing an ideal background before your visit tomorrow morning.

Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise this morning - the beautiful light and smaller crowds make the early start worth it. Your private guide will be able to explain the history of the site and show you some hidden sides to the Taj that you don't see in the postcards. After breakfast, continue to Gwalior by road. Your driver can recommend stops en route, passing many scenic villages and towns.

Explore Orchha today on a private tour with a local guide. The impressive Mughal era temples and their fascinating history are the highlight, but you can also get an insight into rural India by visiting local homes and markets with your guide. This afternoon continue four hours to Khajuraho with your private driver. Relax at your leisure on arrival.

Today is a full day with your guide to explore and appreciate all the UNESCO protected temples at Khajuraho. Known for their erotic carvings and intricate carving, there is lots to explore. The temples are a combination of Hindu and Jain and hold some of the most intricate carvings in India.

Today fly the short hop to Varanasi. The roads are in terrible condition in this region, hence our recommendation to take the 40 minute flight.This evening in the Holy City of Varanasi, enjoy a private boat ride along the river Ganges where you can witness the evening pooja (prayer) and aarti ceremony. Candles and offerings fill the river and people fill the ghats, it's a fascinating spectacle.

Enjoy another boat ride this morning to see the contrasts of life on the river. Along the banks you'll see pilgrims and locals washing, socialising and praying. You will most likely also see riverside cremations taking place. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore independently, get lost in the markets, small streets and endless temples.

Today fly back to Delhi, your specialist will recommend the best option for you. On arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel which is close to the airport, ready for your journey home tomorrow.

Today you will be transferred to the airport in plenty of time to catch your onwards flight. Your return flight will arrive the same day.