The Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi and Bodhgaya is a deeply enriching journey that blends India’s most iconic heritage destinations with its profound spiritual heart. This thoughtfully curated itinerary combines the architectural grandeur of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur with the sacred Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage centers of Varanasi, Sarnath, and Bodhgaya.
Ideal for spiritual seekers, cultural travelers, pilgrims, and first time visitors to India, this tour allows you to experience ancient monuments, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, living traditions, and the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha. From royal palaces and Mughal masterpieces to river rituals and meditation under the Bodhi Tree, this journey offers both outward discovery and inner reflection.
Tour Highlights
- Explore the historic cities of Delhi Agra and Jaipur
- Witness the Taj Mahal at sunset and sunrise
- Walk through ancient lanes and monuments of Old Delhi
- Experience the sacred Ganges rituals in Varanasi
- Visit Sarnath where Buddha gave his first sermon
- Meditate at the Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya
- Explore international Buddhist monasteries
- Enjoy guided cultural insights from experienced local experts
- Perfect blend of heritage spirituality and living traditions
| Destination | Delhi → Agra → Jaipur → Varanasi → Bodhgaya → Delhi |
| Duration | 10 Days |
| Tour Type | Golden Triangle Tours |
Tour Plan
01Day 1: Arrival in Delhi Welcome to India’s Capital
Your journey begins in Delhi, a vibrant city where ancient history and modern life exist side by side. Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check in and some rest, enjoy a gentle orientation walk through Connaught Place or relax amid the greenery of Lodhi Gardens.
In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner where your guide introduces the journey ahead, shares cultural insights, and offers helpful travel tips. This relaxed start helps you settle into India comfortably. Overnight stay in Delhi.
02Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing Mughal Heritage and Colonial Elegance
After breakfast, set out on a guided exploration of Old and New Delhi. Begin with the Red Fort from outside, an enduring symbol of Mughal power and artistry. Continue to Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques, followed by a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk where spices, fabrics, and street life create a sensory experience.
After lunch at a heritage restaurant, drive along the ceremonial boulevard passing India Gate, the President House, and Parliament building. Later visit Humayun’s Tomb, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture that inspired the Taj Mahal. Conclude the day with a peaceful visit to Lotus Temple or Gandhi Smriti. Overnight stay in Delhi.
03Day 3: Delhi to Agra The City of the Taj Mahal
After breakfast, travel to Agra via the smooth Yamuna Expressway. On arrival, check into your hotel and relax. Later, visit Agra Fort, a UNESCO listed site that served as the residence of Mughal emperors. Its palaces and courtyards reveal stories of power love and intrigue.
In the afternoon, visit the Taj Mahal, the eternal symbol of love built by Emperor Shah Jahan. Your guide explains the history craftsmanship and symbolism of this marble masterpiece. As the sun sets, watch the monument glow softly, creating a truly unforgettable moment. Evening at leisure with optional visit to Mehtab Bagh. Overnight stay in Agra.
04Day 4: Agra to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri
Begin your day with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal for a completely different and magical perspective. After breakfast, drive towards Jaipur. En route, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the former Mughal capital built by Emperor Akbar. Explore its palaces courtyards and mosques that stand as a testimony to Indo Islamic brilliance.
Continue your journey to Jaipur, the Pink City of Rajasthan. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Jaipur.
05Day 5: Jaipur Sightseeing Royal Rajasthan
After breakfast, explore Jaipur’s royal landmarks. Visit Amer Fort, a majestic hilltop fortress overlooking Maota Lake. Enjoy an elephant ride and explore its decorated halls mirror work and courtyards.
Next visit City Palace, home to royal museums displaying costumes manuscripts and artifacts. Continue to Jantar Mantar, an ancient astronomical observatory showcasing India’s scientific knowledge. Stop at Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, built for royal women to observe city life. In the evening, explore local markets famous for textiles jewelry and handicrafts. Overnight stay in Jaipur
06Day 6: Jaipur to Varanasi Journey to the Spiritual Heart
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi. On arrival, check into your hotel located near the ghats or old city.
In the evening, enjoy a guided walk along the Ganges River. Witness devotees offering prayers lighting lamps and chanting mantras along the ghats. This gentle introduction sets the tone for the profound spiritual experiences ahead. Overnight stay in Varanasi.
07Day 7: Varanasi Sunrise Rituals and Ganga Aarti
Wake up early for a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges. Watch as pilgrims perform sacred rituals and the city awakens in prayer and devotion. This experience offers a rare glimpse into one of the world’s oldest living spiritual traditions.
After breakfast, explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple Banaras Hindu University and Tulsi Manas Mandir. Visit a silk weaving center to learn about the craftsmanship behind Banarasi saris. In the evening, attend the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony where fire chants and music create a deeply moving atmosphere. Overnight stay in Varanasi.
08Day 8: Excursion to Sarnath Where Buddha Taught the Dharma
Today visit Sarnath, one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. This is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Explore the Dhamek Stupa ancient monastery ruins and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, home to the Lion Capital of Ashoka.
Visit Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, known for its murals depicting the life of Buddha. Return to Varanasi in the afternoon for leisure reflection or quiet exploration. Overnight stay in Varanasi.
09Day 9: Varanasi to Bodhgaya The Path to Enlightenment
After an early breakfast, travel by road to Bodhgaya, the most sacred site for Buddhists worldwide. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and later visit the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
Spend time meditating or simply absorbing the peaceful spiritual atmosphere. Visit international monasteries built by countries such as Thailand Bhutan and Japan, each reflecting unique architectural styles. Overnight stay in Bodhgaya.
10Day 10: Bodhgaya to Delhi Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Delhi. Upon arrival, enjoy final moments for shopping or relaxation before your onward international journey. Depart with lasting memories of a journey that connected history culture and spirituality in a truly meaningful way.
Tour Location
Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Varanasi - Bodhgaya
