WHY TRAVEL WITH US
explore North India
In the Footsteps of the Divine
Delhi-Varanasi- Bodhgaya- Ayodhya- Orchha- Jhansi- Agra- Delhi
Best Time: October to April.
Duration: 16 days/ 15 nights.
India is not just a country, it is a living, breathing spiritual experience. Across its rivers, temples, ghats, and forests, the sacred pulses through daily life in a way few other places on Earth can offer. This 16-day journey is a pilgrimage through the very heart of Mother India, tracing the footsteps of saints, sages, and seekers who have walked this path for millennia.
From the chaotic grace of Delhi to the mystical riverbanks of Varanasi, from the enlightenment of Bodhgaya to the temples of Orchha and Ayodhya, from the Mughal elegance of Agra to the spiritual mosaics of the capital once more, each stop is carefully curated to deepen your understanding of India's spiritual and cultural legacy. With a minimum of two nights in each location, guided experiences, sacred rituals, and comfortable travel, including India’s modern Vande Bharat Express, you’ll encounter not just sites, but living traditions that continue to inspire millions.
Whether you seek personal reflection, cultural depth, or a connection to something greater, this journey promises to transform the way you see India, and yourself.
Highlights
- Sunrise and evening aarti on the Ganges in Varanasi
- Spiritual immersion in Bodhgaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment
- Guided exploration of Ayodhya, birthplace of Lord Ram
- Sacred temples and tranquil ghats in Orchha
- Monumental Taj Mahal and Mughal spirituality in Agra
- Rich heritage and spiritual syncretism in Delhi
- Travel on the high-speed Vande Bharat Express for comfort and speed
Detailed Programme
Day 1 - Action
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Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Upon your arrival in Delhi, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel to settle in. The evening offers a gentle introduction to India’s spiritual fabric with a visit to Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a serene Sikh shrine known for its peaceful atmosphere. Time permitting, you may also explore the stunning Akshardham Temple, a modern architectural marvel that beautifully showcases India’s spiritual heritage.
Day 2: Exploring Delhi
The second day is dedicated to exploring the spiritual and historic heart of Delhi. With your guide, you will visit iconic landmarks such as Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, Raj Ghat—the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, the elegant Humayun’s Tomb, and the towering Qutub Minar. Your afternoon may include visits to the Lotus Temple or the ISKCON Temple, both centers of spiritual reflection and devotion, providing a perfect balance of ancient and modern spiritual expression.
Day 3: Journey to Varanasi by Vande Bharat Express
Early morning, you board the high-speed Vande Bharat Express to Varanasi, a journey of about eight hours through the heart of North India. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and prepare for an unforgettable evening witnessing the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. The flickering lamps, chanting priests, and flowing river create an atmosphere of deep reverence and timeless tradition.
Day 4: Spiritual Immersion in Varanasi
Start the day with a serene sunrise boat ride along the sacred Ganges River, observing rituals on the ghats where life and death intertwine in a timeless cycle. Afterward, visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple and explore other spiritual sites like Bharat Mata Temple and Tulsi Manas Mandir. The afternoon includes a visit to Sarnath, the peaceful Buddhist site where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon, marking a key milestone in spiritual history.
Day 5: Travel to Bodhgaya
Leaving the hustle of Varanasi behind, you drive approximately five and a half hours to Bodhgaya, the place of Buddha’s enlightenment. Once settled into your hotel, visit the sacred Mahabodhi Temple complex and the iconic Bodhi Tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. The evening invites a walk through the tranquil monasteries representing Buddhist traditions from around the world, each offering unique insights and peaceful surroundings.
Day 6: Exploring Bodhgaya
Your day in Bodhgaya is dedicated to deeper spiritual practices and exploration. Begin with a meditation session or a guided tour of local sacred sites such as Sujata Village and the Dungeshwari Caves, where Buddha meditated before his enlightenment. For those interested, an optional excursion to the ancient Nalanda ruins or Rajgir can provide further historical context to the Buddhist legacy.
Day 7: Journey to Orchha via Jhansi
Early in the day, you embark on a journey to Orchha. This involves a train ride to Jhansi followed by a short drive to Orchha, or a combination of driving and train travel depending on schedule preferences. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the calm environment by the Betwa River, preparing for your exploration of this historic town.
Day 8: Discovering Orchha
Spend the day immersed in Orchha’s spiritual and architectural heritage. Visit the grand palaces of Raja Mahal and Jahangir Mahal, as well as the unique Ram Raja Temple, where Lord Ram is worshipped as a king. Wander along the banks of the Betwa River to see the ancient cenotaphs and participate in the evening aarti ceremony at the Ram Raja Temple, a captivating experience filled with devotion and local tradition.
Day 9: Travel from Orchha to Ayodhya
After a relaxed morning, you travel to Jhansi to catch a train or drive directly to Ayodhya, the revered birthplace of Lord Ram. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and rest, preparing for the spiritual discoveries ahead.
Day 10: Exploring Ayodhya
Today is dedicated to delving into Ayodhya’s rich religious tapestry. Visit the newly developed Ram Janmabhoomi complex, the revered Hanuman Garhi temple, Kanak Bhawan, and the sacred ghats along the Saryu River. Walk through the historical Ram ki Paidi and absorb the spiritual energy of this ancient city, which continues to inspire devotion for millions.
Day 11: Spiritual Experiences in Ayodhya
Spend an additional day in Ayodhya for spiritual reflection and deeper connection. Participate in morning prayers or temple ceremonies, visit the quieter Guptar Ghat and Valmiki Ramayan Bhavan, or engage with local priests and scholars to learn more about the city’s spiritual traditions. The evening is yours to relax or meditate at leisure.
Day 12: Journey to Agra
Depart Ayodhya for Agra, traveling via Lucknow or Jhansi depending on transport options, a journey that takes approximately 7 to 8 hours. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind after the day’s travel.
Day 13: Agra’s Spiritual and Architectural Wonders
Rise early to witness the Taj Mahal bathed in the soft light of dawn, a timeless symbol of love and spiritual harmony. Later, explore the impressive Agra Fort and Mehtab Bagh, offering beautiful views of the Taj. Visit the ornate tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, often called the “Baby Taj,” and, if time allows, stop at Dayalbagh Temple, a lesser-known spiritual site.
Day 14: Return to Delhi via Mathura/Vrindavan
Travel back to Delhi by road, approximately a 3.5-hour drive. En route, you may visit the holy towns of Mathura and Vrindavan, centers of Krishna devotion, offering colorful temples and vibrant spiritual life. Arrive in Delhi and check into your hotel for your final nights in India.
Day 15: Spiritual Delhi and Reflection
On your last full day, explore some of Delhi’s spiritual corners such as Nizamuddin Dargah, the Sufi shrine of the poet-saint Nizamuddin Auliya, the Yogmaya Temple, or the peaceful ISKCON Temple. Enjoy a contemplative walk in Lodhi Gardens or visit the Lotus Temple for silent meditation. In the evening, partake in a farewell dinner or a satsang session, a gathering for spiritual music and reflection.
Day 16: Departure from Delhi
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final spiritual visit or meditation session at a local center before your transfer to the airport. Depart Delhi with a heart enriched by India’s eternal soul and memories to last a lifetime.
