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This special itinerary is created for those who want to experience the four fascinating things India is famous for – Food, Festivals, Spirituality and Shopping. This 12-day itinerary takes you to the two “Golden Triangles” of India. The lesser known but immensely spiritual Golden Triangle of Ayodhya, Prayagraj and Varanasi, the cradle of Indian civilisation. And the other popular Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. The link between these two is the fascinating city of Lucknow. At all locations, accommodation is in 5-star luxury hotels.
What makes this tour even more special is that you will get to enjoy the festival of Holi in Jaipur, have a dip at the Holy Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj and see the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya all decked up getting ready to celebrate Ram Navami. The diversity of India is such that the cuisine of each of the 7 destinations of this tour is unique and so are the shopping opportunities.
Begin your gastronomic adventure in Delhi where the bustling streets are alive with the aroma of spices and the sizzle of street food. From savory chaat to mouthwatering parathas, Delhi is a great place for an introduction to North Indian cuisine. In Jaipur, enjoy the traditional Dal-Baati Choorma, the spicy Laal Maas and the decadent Ghevar desserts. We will dine in a palace and experience the opulent way of life fit for kings and queens.
Agra is famous for its rich Mughlai cuisine and sweet delicacies like Petha. In Lucknow enjoy the legendary Awadhi cuisine of succulent kebabs, fragrant biryanis, and rich curries. The meals in Ayodhya and Varanasi are likely to be authentic vegetarian but incredibly tasty food befitting the cultural and spiritual significances of the cities.
For those who love ethnic Indian shopping, you are in for a treat. Throughout this tour there will be lots of opportunities to shop for clothes and collect unique treasures and souvenirs. Delhi is famous for the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, where you can haggle for intricate jewelry and aromatic spices. In Jaipur visit the colorful markets of Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, where you'll find everything from dazzling jewelry to handcrafted textiles. We can even arrange to get your own design of block printing for your ethnic Indian wear to bring back to NZ. Agra is famous for leather shoes, handbags and the intricate inlay work of marble artifacts.
Continue your shopping adventure in Lucknow, where the bustling markets are filled with clothes of traditional chikankari embroidery, perfumes, and handicrafts. In Ayodhya there are religious artifacts, colorful bangles, and delicious traditional sweets. And anyone who appreciates ethnic Indian attire will know the value and significance of the traditional Banarasi Sarees of Varanasi.
If that is not enough, we have reserved the last day in Delhi to visit one of the best malls in Delhi for some more shopping. You can indulge in high end brands for yourself or gifts for loved ones in NZ. We suggest you travel light on your way to India or be prepared for excess baggage on the way back!
Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Delhi | Street food in Chandni Chowk, Haveli Dharampura |
| Jaipur | Rajasthani Thali, Dining in a palace, Holi celebrations |
| Agra | Mughlai cuisine |
| Lucknow | Authentic Awadhi cuisine |
| Ayodhya | Satvik Vegetarian food near the Ram Mandir |
| Varanasi | Streed food crawl with a local storyteller |
Destination | No of Nights | Hotel |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 2 nights | ITC Maurya |
| Jaipur | 2 Nights | ITC Mughal |
| Agra | 1 Nights | ITC Rajputana |
| Lucknow | 1 Nights | Hyatt or similar |
| Ayodhya | 2 Nights | Park Inn by Radisson |
| Varanasi | 2 Night | Radisson or similar |
| Delhi | 1 Night | Pullman Airport |
On arrival at Delhi airport, we will meet our local representative for transfer to our hotel. After checking in, take a few hours to rest and unwind from the long flight. That evening we will go to Akshardham which is arguably one of the best temples in India.
Dinner is a special welcome dinner at our hotel.
After breakfast at the hotel, we will go sightseeing. The contrast between Old Delhi and New Delhi, both with its distinct characteristics, history, and vibe is fascinating. We will also visit the Lotus Temple. This stunning structure, shaped like a blooming lotus flower, serves as the Bahá'í House of Worship. It is a symbol of unity, peace, and spirituality, welcoming people of all religions and backgrounds to come together in prayer and meditation.
For dinner we will enjoy a special culinary experience at Haveli Dharampura, a UNESCO Awarded Heritage Haveli in Old Delhi. It is a cultural evening with classical dance, music and perhaps a session of kite flying on the roof top while watching the sunset.
Today is Holi, the festival of colours. After an early breakfast we will check out from our hotel and drive to Jaipur, the Pink City. On arrival, check in at the hotel followed by a special lunch to celebrate the festival of Holi. It will be a private celebration with friends and family in the comfort of your hotel… lots of colours., flowers, music and tasty food.
Dinner is a cultural experience with authentic Rajasthani food.
After breakfast we will leave for a sightseeing tour of Jaipur, including an excursion to Amber Fort with an Elephant ride to ascend the fort. For lunch you can explore the vibrant markets and enjoy some tasty street food. Later in the afternoon visit the City Palace, the royal residence for the Maharaja of Jaipur.
Dinner is a Rajasthani Thali at one of the most iconic restaurants in Jaipur.
After breakfast we set off on a road trip to Agra. It is a 5-hour drive, but on the way, we will have a few stops to break the journey and take in some local sights such as one of the oldest stepwells that dates to the 8th century and is 13 floors deep. And Fatehpur Sikri, a historical complex that was commissioned by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.
After checking in, we will proceed to see the Taj Mahal, arguably the most iconic building in India and one of the Seven wonders of the World. Later we will visit the Agra Fort and enjoy a light and sound show about the history and love story behind the Taj Mahal. Immerse yourself in the lights and be transported to a time where horses come galloping at an Emperor’s command!
Dinner is authentic Mughlai food with a Mughal theme.
We will leave for the train station early today morning with a packed breakfast. On arrival check in at the hotel and later in the afternoon proceed for a half day sightseeing of Lucknow. In the evening explore some of the local markets for clothes and jewelry shopping.
Dinner is authentic Awadhi cuisine at one of the most popular local restaurants in Lucknow.
After breakfast we start our drive to Ayodhya. After checking in at the hotel we will see some places of significance in Ayodhya such as Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, Sita Rasoi, Kanak Bhawan, etc.
In the evening visit some of the local markets to buy religious artefacts, colourful bangles, handicrafts, souvenirs and sweets. Later you can participate in Ram Arti on the Bank of Sarayu River.
Dinner for the 2 nights in Ayodhya is local delights of vegetarian Awadhi cuisine.
Perhaps for some of you this is the day that you are joining us on this tour. After breakfast we will proceed to the Ram Mandir to seek blessings of “Bhagwan Shri Ram” in his child avatar known as “Ramlala”. Ram Navami is around the corner and the temple will be decorated in all its glory to celebrate this auspicious day.
After the ‘Darshan’ the rest of the day is at leisure to explore this divine city which has experienced a huge facelift after the construction of the Ram Mandir. The entire day is dedicated to embracing the divinity of Ayodhya.
After breakfast we drive to Prayagraj (former Allahabad), Positioned along the sacred confluence (Sangam) of three holy rivers - Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. The history of the Triveni Sangam is rooted in Hindu mythology, where Lord Brahma is believed to have performed a grand yagna at the confluence. The river Saraswati, considered mythical, is believed to flow underground and join the Ganga and Yamuna here.
Prayagraj is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus. It is one of the four holy cities that play host to the Kumbh Mela, probably the largest human congregation in the world and attracts millions of people. A dip at the Triveni Sangam is said to wash away all sins. Later that evening we will drive to Varanasi, the Eternal city.
Dinner will be at our hotel in Varanasi.
After breakfast we will explore the city of Varanasi, often referred to as the spiritual capital of India. Varanasi also known as Banaras or Kashi embodies the essence of Hinduism, spirituality, and ancient traditions. Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganga, it is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates to the 11th century BC.
The city is dotted with over 2,000 temples, including the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which attracts millions of pilgrims and devotees each year. The ghats, or the steps along the riverfront are integral to Varanasi's spirituality, where devotees perform rituals, last rites, offer prayers, and take holy dips to cleanse their sins. We will visit Sarnath where Gautam Buddha had given the first sermon after attaining Nirvana. It is a world heritage site and the inspiration behind India’s national emblem.
Later in the evening witness the sunset Aarti ceremony on the Ghat, a mesmerizing spectacle of light, color, and devotion, where priests offer prayers to the river goddess Ganga amidst chanting, incense, and the glow of oil lamps. It is a sight to behold.
There will be enough time to enjoy the culinary delicacies of Varanasi. From street food stalls serving savory chaat, crispy kachoris, and sweet jalebis to traditional eateries offering delectable Banarasi thalis and luscious sweets, the city is a paradise for food lovers. If you want to buy authentic Banarasi sarees, we will suggest the best place for shopping.
Early in the morning we will enjoy the serene sight of sunrise on the river Ganga. Later, after breakfast at the hotel, we will be transferred to the airport for our flight to Delhi.
On arrival in Delhi, check in at the hotel close to the airport. There will be transport available to take you to one of the best shopping malls in Delhi. Our last dinner together of this tour together will be the culinary highlight of the tour. It is a sensory experience like no other.
After breakfast at the hotel, we will be transferred to the airport for our flight back to NZ. If your flight is later in the day we can arrange transport for some more shopping.
Alternatively talk to us about extending your tour to spend some more nights in Delhi, enjoy the sunshine on the golden beaches of Goa or extend your spiritual journey with a Char Dham Yatra.
Upon arrival at Delhi international airport, our company representative will meet & assist you with traditional welcome and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Rest of the day free & easy for own activities. Evening proceed for Dinner at Masala Library Restaurant ( www.masalalibrary.co.in) Masala library by Jiggs Kalra a magnum opus of the Czar of Indian Cuisine & tastemaker. The culinary offerings at Masala Library endevour’s to offer its patrons a never before under taken gastronomic voyage capturing the grandeur of centuries old traditions and the long last essence of one of the oldest known gastronomic tradition in the world. The main focus is to revive the traditional recipes specially KABAB & CURRIES. After dinner return to hotel(Meal Include – Dinner) Overnight at Delhi hotel
Post breakfast; proceed for a full day guided tour in Delhi starting from Old Delhi visiting drive pass Raj Ghat, visit Jama Maszid, drivepass through Red Fort & Chandni Chowk market and later enjoy an authentic old Delhi street food and taste (if guest like).
After old Delhi tour; procced for lunch at a famous Old Delhi Indian restaurant called "Chor Bizarre" (www.chorbizarre.com/del) Chor Bizarre is the complete eating out experience, great décor, distinct ambience, wonderous cocktails, superlative food, charming old world service. Every city in India have its own special ‘Chor Bazar’ which translate as ‘thieves market’. All kind of wares find their way here (with or without the consent of the owners). This brings an inspiration and to celebrate the eclecticism of India.
Later proceed to visit India Gate, drive pass through Parliament Street & President house and visit Qutab Minar.
After sightseeing; In evening, you will take a cooking class session at chef Harpal Singh Sokhi at home with dinner. He is celebrity chef from India. Also known as “Energy Chef of India” is now a “Dancing Chef Of India”. Hailing from North India, which, like the rest of India is rich in culture and cuisine, Chef Harpal is a music lover and is fluent in English and five Indian languages, namely Hindi, Punjabi, Bengali, Oriya and Telugu. He graduated from the catering school at Bhubaneshwar, a capital of Orissa. He spent his initial years in learning different international cuisines but later realised that his interest lay in unearthing the authentic regional Indian food.
(Meal Include – Breakfast & Lunch)
Overnight at Delhi hotel.
Early breakfast; check-out from the hotel and transfer to Delhi- Nizamuddin railway station to board the train to Agra; the city of Taj Mahal.
Upon arrival at Agra Railway station; Meet & assistance by company representative & transfer to hotel for check-in. After lunch proceed for a half day guided tour in Agra visiting Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Post tour; spend some time in shopping the world’s best Marble products and the famous James & Jewelry.
In night enjoy the dinner at Bellevue Restaurant in hotel Amar Vilas (www.oberoihotels.com/amarvilas) Bellevue offers an unforgettable dining experience. It is well known that Mughal Emperors were patrons of lavish foods. At here chef tried to capture Mughal’s passion for international flavours. You will find Italian Classics reinvented with an Asian twist that reflects the gout de terrior ot the spirit and nature of the South and South East Asian Regions.
(Meal Include – Breakfast & Dinner)
Overnight at Agra hotel
Post breakfast; drive to Jaipur; the capital city of Rajasthan State and known as the “Pink City. Upon arrival Jaipur; check-in to the hotel and relax.
In Evening procced to visit Chokhi Dhani Village; Chokhi Dhani is a popular and remarkable attraction of Jaipur. It is an ethnic village resort offering you all type of entertainment options including dance, music, food and accommodations in royal styles. We can enjoy the activities at Chokhi Dhani include magic shows, puppet shows, Rajasthani dance, Rajasthani folk music, future tellers, acrobatics on a bamboo and luck predicting parrots. There are also interesting activities and adventures that will keep you completely engaged, like camel ride, elephant ride and horse ride and boating. Later take the Rajasthani dinner at the most sumptuous at Royal Rajasthani dining hall where we can enjoy delicious Rajasthani cuisines with cultural performances by bhopa and bhopan (Rajasthani songs & Music)
(Meal Include – Breakfast & Dinner)
Remark: After visit Chokhi Dhani village; if guest not like Rajasthani food than we can arrange the dinner on finest restaurant in Jaipur (Restaurant Peshawar in hotel ITC Rajputana – On direct payment basis/ similar )
Overnight at Jaipur Hotel
Post breakfast; leave for an excursion to Amber Fort. Enjoy the Elephant ride to ascend the Amber fort. After visiting Amber fort, visit to a traditional Rajasthani Handicraft & handloom factory to see the craftsmen performing.
Afternoon enjoy the lunch at a famous Jaipur restaurant Swapna Bhawan in Hotel Raj Palace (www.rajpalace.com) Formal receptions remained the local activity of country life during the British period. Hence the Thakur Sahib made Swapna Mahal imitating the great houses of the British and French nability. This hall is completely titled out with European furniture, Chandliers, Mirrors and Crockery Collection. The Food is serve in Royal Thali (is a big plate made of silver , gold or other metal).
Later procced visit to City Palace and Jantar Mantar observatory. Before returning your hotel; a short stop in front Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace) for photo shoot.
After relaxing; In evening, we will proceed for dinner at Restaurant Rajput Room in hotel Taj Ram Bagh Palace; Here first we will explore Ram Bagh Palace and later enjoy the dinner. They special prepared the Rajasthani Thali and serve.
(Meal Include – Breakfast)
Overnight at Jaipur hotel
Early breakfast; on time transfer to Jaipur airport to board the flight to Udaipur; city of lakes. Upon arrived Udaipur; meet & assistance by company representative and transfer to hotel for check-in / or Proceed direct half day guided sightseeing tour of Udaipur. (Check-in time is 02 PM- Subject to early check-in facility if room are available)
visiting City Palace, an intriguing collection of buildings built in the year 1725. Also visit Sahelion ki Bari (Garden of Maids of Honour) and Jagdish Temple; the Indo-Aryan Temple and visit Old city of Udaipur.
Later in evening procced for a cooking class demo on Rajasthani cuisine at chef home and enjoy the dinner with variety of foods which is prepared by chef.
Chef : Mr. Vimal Dhar
One of India’s most renowned Young Chef, CHEF VIMAL DHAR is a highly experienced Chef with a passion for perfecting culinary specialties. With an impressive list of achievements to his credit, this astute and result oriented professional has been featured among INDIA’S TOP CHEF in the book MY LAST SUPPER by Melanie Dunea. The soft-spoken Chef Vimal Dhar also holds the distinction of having been featured in THE WALL STREET JOURNAL, USA magazine by Mr. Stan Sessor and in the DISCOVERY CHANNEL by Anthony Bourdain. Also featured on TRAVEL & LIVING CHANNEL.
CHEF VIMAL DHAR is featured among 50 Chefs handpicked globally by celebrity photographer Melanie Dunea for her latest coffee table book MY LAST SUPPER. For this book, the Dunea travelled the world to short list (based on surveys and extensive research) the 50 best names in the culinary world and interviewed each one of them herself.
(Meal Include – Breakfast)
Overnight at Udaipur hotel
Post breakfast; On time transfer to Udaipur airport to board the flight to New Delhi. Upon arrival, New Delhi airport; meet & assistance by company representative and transfer to hotel for check-in. Rest of the time is free for leisure and relax. In evening proceed for dinner at Indian Accent Restaurant. After dinner return to hotel
(Meal Include – Breakfast & Dinner)
Overnight at Udaipur hotel
Post breakfast; On time transfer to Delhi International airport to board the flight to onward journey.
(Meal Include – Breakfast)
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