Golden Triangle Plus Varanasi, Hyderabad Region Temples & Mumbai

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Upon arrival at Delhi airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in a private air-conditioned vehicle. After check-in, take time to freshen up and relax after your journey. Delhi, the capital of India, offers a fascinating first impression with its blend of historic monuments, modern avenues, and lively city energy. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to explore nearby surroundings or enjoy a relaxed dinner in the city. The rest of the day is kept free so you can settle in comfortably before the journey begins. Overnight at hotel in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi Exploration

After breakfast at the hotel, begin a full-day sightseeing tour of Delhi covering both Old and New Delhi. Start with the iconic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reflects the grandeur of Mughal architecture, followed by Jama Masjid, one of the largest and most impressive mosques in India. Experience the charm of Chandni Chowk and Khari Baoli Spice Market with a cycle rickshaw ride through narrow lanes filled with shops, aromas, and local life. Continue to Raj Ghat, the peaceful memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, before driving through New Delhi to see India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and Parliament House. Later, visit Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, and the Lotus Temple, each representing a different chapter of Delhi’s rich cultural history. Overnight at hotel in Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi to Varanasi by Flight

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi. On arrival, you will be greeted and assisted with your transfer to the hotel. After check-in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey. Later in the day, proceed for an excursion to the Sarnath temple complex, one of the most important Buddhist sites in India, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. In the evening, experience the famous Ganga Aarti at the ghats of the River Ganges, where priests perform synchronized rituals with lamps, bells, chants, and devotion. The atmosphere is deeply spiritual and unforgettable. Overnight at hotel in Varanasi.

Day 4: Varanasi Exploration

Rise early to witness the magical sunrise over the River Ganges during a peaceful boat ride. As the city slowly awakens, observe pilgrims performing morning rituals and prayers along the riverbanks, creating one of India’s most iconic spiritual scenes. Return to the hotel for breakfast and continue sightseeing with a visit to Banaras Hindu University, one of Asia’s largest universities, and Bharat Mata Temple, known for its unique map-like marble relief of India. Explore Tulsi Manas Mandir, dedicated to the poet-saint Tulsidas, and continue your spiritual journey through Sarnath if time permits. The day offers an intimate glimpse into Varanasi’s ancient traditions and living heritage. Overnight at hotel in Varanasi.

Day 5: Varanasi to Jaipur by Flight

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan. On arrival, you will be assisted with your transfer to the hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore the nearby local markets at your own pace. Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is famous for its royal architecture, colorful bazaars, and artistic traditions. You may enjoy shopping for textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, or simply unwind at the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Jaipur.

Day 6: Jaipur Sightseeing

After breakfast, begin a full-day sightseeing tour of Jaipur. Start with the magnificent Amber Fort, where you can enjoy an elephant ride or jeep ride up to the entrance and explore its courtyards, mirror work halls, and royal chambers. Continue to Jaigarh Fort, known for its historic defenses and panoramic views of the city. Visit the elegant City Palace, the astronomical Observatory of Jantar Mantar, and the iconic Hawa Mahal, whose lattice façade is among the most recognizable in India. Later, visit Sisodia Rani Garden and Birla Temple, both offering a peaceful contrast to the city’s royal energy. Return to the hotel after a day of regal exploration. Overnight at hotel in Jaipur.

Day 7: Jaipur to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Agra. En route, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its magnificent structures, including Diwan-i-Khas, Jodha Bai Palace, Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chishti, Panch Mahal, and the grand Buland Darwaza. The site offers a fascinating look into Mughal ambition and architectural brilliance. Continue the journey to Agra, where you will check in at the hotel and relax for the evening. You may opt to explore the local area or simply rest after the day’s travel. Overnight at hotel in Agra.

Day 8: Agra to Hyderabad by Flight

Begin the day with an early sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a timeless symbol of love. Return to the hotel for breakfast and then visit Agra Fort, a grand Mughal fortress that tells the story of imperial power and refinement. Continue to Itmad-ud-Daula’s Tomb, often called the Baby Taj, admired for its delicate inlay work and elegant design. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Hyderabad. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.

Day 9: Hyderabad Sightseeing

After breakfast, set out to explore Hyderabad, a city known for its royal legacy, rich culture, and vibrant character. Visit Golconda Fort, an impressive historical fortress famous for its engineering, acoustics, and panoramic views. Continue to the Qutub Shahi Tombs, which reflect the grandeur of the Deccan rulers, and then explore the Charminar, Hyderabad’s most iconic monument. Walk through Laad Bazaar, known for bangles, pearls, and traditional shopping. Later, visit the Salar Jung Museum, Chowmahalla Palace, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Hussain Sagar Lake before ending the day at Birla Mandir. Overnight at hotel in Hyderabad.

Day 10: Hyderabad to Vijayapura via Gulbarga (385 km / Approx. 8 hrs)

After breakfast, embark on a long but rewarding drive to Vijayapura, stopping en route at Gulbarga. Visit Gulbarga Fort, an important historic structure that highlights the region’s medieval past. Continue to the Jama Masjid and the Khwaja Bande Nawaz Dargah, both significant landmarks that reflect the spiritual and architectural heritage of the Deccan. The journey offers changing landscapes and a deeper glimpse into regional history and culture. On arrival in Vijayapura, check in at the hotel and rest after the journey. Overnight at hotel in Vijayapura.

Day 11: Vijayapura to Badami (120 km / Approx. 3 hrs)

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Vijayapura with visits to Jama Masjid, the revered Sharana Basaveshwara Temple, and the Tomb of Sufi saint Khwaja Bande Nawaz. These sites reflect the city’s rich religious harmony and historical depth. Later, drive to Badami, a heritage town known for its rock-cut cave temples and striking sandstone cliffs. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. You may take a peaceful evening walk around the surroundings or simply relax after the journey. Overnight at hotel in Badami.

Day 12: Badami Exploration

After breakfast, begin a full-day excursion to Aihole, often referred to as the cradle of Indian temple architecture, with more than 125 Chalukyan temples and monuments dating from the 6th to 12th centuries. Continue to Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its beautifully carved temple complex from the 7th and 8th centuries. Return to Badami to visit the famous Badami Cave Temples, carved into sandstone cliffs and dedicated to Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist traditions. Explore Badami Fort for panoramic views of the region and end the day at Agastya Lake, where the scenic setting creates a calm and memorable finish. Overnight at hotel in Badami.

Day 13: Badami to Hampi via Gadag and Lakkundi (180 km / Approx. 5 hrs)

After breakfast, proceed to Hampi, one of India’s most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites, known for the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. En route, stop at Gadag to see the historic Trikuteshwara Temple and continue to Lakkundi, where the Kashivishveshvara Temple and other ancient structures reveal the region’s artistic excellence. The journey itself is rich in heritage and architectural discovery. Upon arrival in Hampi, check in at the hotel and relax for the evening. This ancient landscape of boulders, temples, and rivers offers a completely different rhythm and atmosphere. Overnight at hotel in Hampi.

Day 14: Hampi Exploration

After breakfast, enjoy a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Hampi, one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in India. Visit the Hazara Rama Temple, Kings Balance, Mahanavami Dibba, and the sprawling Royal Enclosures, all of which reflect the power and sophistication of the Vijayanagara Empire. Continue to the statue of Ugra Narasimha and the sacred Virupaksha Temple, still active as a place of worship. Explore the stunning Vithala Temple Complex, famous for its stone chariot and musical pillars, followed by the elegant Lotus Mahal and the ASI Museum. Hampi’s combination of spirituality, sculpture, and landscape creates a truly unforgettable experience. Overnight at hotel in Hampi.

Day 15: Hampi to Mumbai by Flight

After breakfast, transfer to Hubli Airport for your flight to Mumbai. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Later, begin a short sightseeing tour of Mumbai with a visit to the Gateway of India, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Explore Kala Ghoda, known for art galleries and colonial buildings, and visit Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalay, a museum rich in history and culture. You may also witness the unique activity at Dhobi Ghat, the city’s famous open-air laundry. Overnight at hotel in Mumbai.

Day 16: Mumbai Exploration

After breakfast, continue exploring Mumbai, India’s bustling financial and cultural capital. Enjoy a scenic drive along Marine Drive and pass by major landmarks such as CST and the heritage district of South Mumbai. Revisit the Gateway of India area and take in the atmosphere of Colaba Causeway if you wish to shop or explore local cafés. Continue to Dhobi Ghat and the museum district for a deeper look at the city’s everyday life and artistic identity. The day blends colonial elegance, modern city energy, and coastal charm. Overnight at hotel in Mumbai.

Day 17: Departure from Mumbai

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Mumbai airport for your onward journey. Your tour concludes with a rich collection of memories from North, Central, and South India, including sacred cities, royal capitals, ancient temples, grand forts, and vibrant urban experiences. Departure assistance will be provided for a smooth and comfortable end to the journey.

• Assistance on arrival at airport
• 16 nights accommodation in selected category hotels
• Daily breakfast at hotels
• Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program
• English-speaking local guides on sightseeing days in each city
• Monument entrance fees and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water in the vehicle during travel
• Government taxes

Hotels used or similar for 16 nights accommodation

Delhi x 2 nights
3* - Madhuban Hotel/ Emarald Hotel
4* - The Royal Plaza/ Country Inn & Suite Saket
5* - Le Meridien/ The Claridges

Varanasi x 2 nights
3* - Meraden Grand/ Amaya Hotel
4* - Rivatas by Ideal/ Palace On Ganges
5* - Radisson Hotel/ Gateway Hotel Taj

Jaipur x 2 night
3* - Redfox Hotel/ Park Ocean
4* - Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre/ Lemon Tree Premier
5* - ITC Rajputana/ Trident Hotel

Agra x 1 nights
3* - Howard Plaza the Fern/ Atulyaa Taj
4* - Radisson Hotel/ Holiday Inn
5* - Courtyard by Marriott/ Trident Hotel

Hyderabad x 2 nights
3* - Aditya Park/ Lemon Tree Hotel
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel/ Fortune Park Vallabha 
5* - ITC Kakatiya, a Luxury Collection/ Trident Hotel

Bijapur x 1 night
3&4* - The Fern Residency/ Sun Hotel
5* - The Fern Residency/ Sun Hotel

Badami x 2 nights
3* - Rajsangam Hotel/ The Heritage Resort
4&5* - Badami Court/ Krishna Heritage

Hampi x 2 night
3* - Krishna Palace/ Kishkinda Heritage Resort
4* - Heritage Resort/ Malligi Hotel
5* - Hyatt Place/ Hampi Boulders

Mumbai x 2 night
3* - Hotel Suba Palace/ BW Hotel Sahil
4* - Sun-N-Sand Hotel/ Fariyas Hotel
5* - Trident Hotel/ ITC Grand Central

• International and domestic airfare, including Delhi–Varanasi, Varanasi–Jaipur, Jaipur–Hyderabad, and Hubli–Mumbai sectors
• Visa fees and travel insurance
• Lunches and dinners unless specifically mentioned in the inclusions
• Personal expenses such as laundry, beverages, liquor, telephone, tips, and fax charges
• Camera charges at monuments, museums, and heritage sites if applicable
• Gratuities and optional activities
• Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusions