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From the snow-capped Himalayas in the north to the sun drenched coastal villages of the south, India unfolds like an ancient tapestry. At times threadbare and fading, the land stretches from desert dunes and scattered slums to the rich embroidery of ancient, jewelled palaces, and the majestic domes of forgotten empires. India is a feast for the senses; where the air is heavy with the scent of jasmine and dancers trail frenetic melodies in colourful silk saris. Its cooks compose dishes from a palette of exotic spices that may leave a lingering taste of saffron or aniseed. In India's cities, the stench of slum living competes with the cacophony of seemingly endless traffic and a myriad of other textures, colours and movements all jostling for your attention. Delhi is a destination for the adventurous and energetic. To have a holiday in Delhi is to experience the heartbeat of India with all its contrasts. Shopaholics will enjoy the experience of bargaining for some unique and exotic souvenirs in the crammed street markets.
Varanasi is situated between Delhi and Kolkata at a bend in the sacred Ganges River. Home to some of the most ancient and revered monasteries in the world, Varanasi is the place where scholars still come to learn the ancient knowledge of the Vedas and debate on the nature of God. Being the cultural centre of India, it is home to many musicians, novelists and philosophers. Agra, along with Delhi and Jaipur, forms the 'Golden Triangle', India's favourite tourist route. Situated just 125 miles (200km) south of Delhi, it makes an easy day trip by train. However it is worth spending at least a night here just to truly appreciate the wondrous Taj Mahal and its many moods; at dawn the mausoleum changes from grey to pink to brilliant-white.
Days 1-2 Delhi, City Tour, Overnight Train Varanasi Day 3 Varanasi, City Tour Day 4 Boat Trip on the River Ganges Day 5 Drive via Rewa to Chitrakoot Days 6-7 Drive Khajuraho, Erotic Temples, Drive Orchha Day 8 Orchha, City Tour, Drive Chanderi Day 9 Chanderi,Temples, Mosques, Ruins, Pre-historic Rock Paintings. Drive Shivpuri Day 10 Visit Chattris and George Castle. Drive Ranthambore National Park Day 11 Ranthambore - Morning and Afternoon Game Drives Day 12 Drive Agra via Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort Day 13 Sunrise Tour of Taj Mahal, Drive Delhi Day 14 Ends Delhi after Breakfast For more information please email cstein@gohop.com or call Cindy +353 1 2412320 |