Welcome to India! Your India highlights tour truly begins as you arrive in the spiritual heartland of Punjab — the vibrant city of Amritsar. As you step off the plane, the air is filled with the scent of spices, the warmth of sunshine, and the buzz of life that pulses through every corner of this ancient land.

Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by a friendly representative from Lumle who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Along the way, catch your first glimpses of colourful streets, sacred shrines, and the rich tapestry of daily life unfolding outside your window.

Once checked in, the remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to rest after your journey, soaking in the comfort of your hotel, or stretch your legs and explore the local surroundings — from bustling markets to the rhythmic clatter of tuk-tuks echoing through nearby lanes.

This is your first taste of India’s incredible energy, and the beginning of a journey that promises soul-stirring moments, timeless heritage, and extraordinary encounters.

Overnight: Amritsar

Meals: None

After a nourishing breakfast, your journey into the heart of India’s soul-stirring past begins. The first stop on today’s immersive India highlights tour is Jallianwala Bagh — a quiet, walled garden that echoes with the weight of history. This site of national remembrance marks one of the darkest chapters in colonial India. As you walk through its solemn pathways and view the memorial, you’ll feel the lingering reverence for the innocent lives lost during the 1919 massacre, a tragedy that stirred the conscience of a nation.

From tragedy to transcendence, your next stop is the magnificent Golden Temple, the beating spiritual heart of Sikhism. Glistening in the morning sun and surrounded by the sacred Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar), the temple stands as a powerful symbol of humility, equality, and devotion. Join pilgrims in walking the marble path around the shimmering shrine, and absorb the melodic hum of hymns echoing through the sanctum. A visit to the Langar Hall offers a truly humbling experience, where volunteers serve free meals to thousands of visitors daily, regardless of religion or background — an extraordinary expression of shared humanity.

Enjoy lunch at a local Punjabi restaurant (payable directly), sampling regional specialities packed with warmth and flavour.

In the afternoon, drive to the iconic Wagah Border for one of India’s most dramatic and emotional daily events — the Beating Retreat Ceremony. Held just before sunset, this grand ritual unfolds at the historic border crossing between India and Pakistan, once connected by the legendary Grand Trunk Road. Watch as soldiers from both nations engage in an awe-inspiring display of military precision, high-energy parades, and theatrical salutes, culminating in the synchronised lowering of national flags. The air crackles with patriotism, unity, and emotion — an experience that leaves a lasting imprint on every traveller.

As the sun sets, return to your hotel to reflect on a day that offered deep insight into India’s spirit — its pain, its pride, and its enduring resilience.

Overnight: Amritsar

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, your India highlights tour continues with a scenic drive through the ever-changing landscapes of northern India. Depart Amritsar in your private vehicle and begin the five-hour journey toward the mystical hill station of Dharamshala — a town steeped in Tibetan culture and spiritual serenity, nestled in the shadow of the mighty Dhauladhar mountain range.

As you leave the bustling plains behind, watch the scenery transform into pine-clad hills, terraced fields, and crisp mountain air. En route, soak in glimpses of rural life — roadside fruit vendors, prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and winding roads that hug the Himalayan foothills.

Upon arrival in Dharamshala, you’ll be greeted by our local representative who will assist with a smooth transfer to your hotel. Check in and unwind amidst the peaceful rhythm of the mountains — a perfect contrast to the energy of Amritsar. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and soak in the serene surroundings, perhaps with a cup of masala chai on your balcony overlooking cedar forests and distant snowcaps.

Tomorrow, the spiritual heart of Dharamshala awaits, but for now, let the calm and quiet of the hills set the tone for your next unforgettable chapter.

Overnight: Dharamshala

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, set off to explore the cultural and spiritual treasures of Dharamshala, a place that pulses with the peaceful energy of Tibetan Buddhism. Surrounded by cedar forests and snow-capped peaks, this region offers a deeply enriching chapter of your India highlights tour.

Your first stop is the revered Dalai Lama Temple, also known as the Tsuglakhang Complex — a serene space of devotion, ideal for meditation and spiritual reflection. Located close to the Dalai Lama’s residence, this sacred site is often visited by His Holiness for teachings and public prayer gatherings. As you walk past monks spinning prayer wheels and softly chanting mantras, the atmosphere resonates with tranquillity and inner calm.

Nearby, visit the Namgyal Monastery, the personal monastery of the 14th Dalai Lama. This spiritual centre plays a vital role in the preservation of sacred rituals and tantric practices and stands as a symbol of Tibetan resilience in exile.

Continue your journey to the Church of St. John in the Wilderness, a hidden neo-Gothic gem built in 1852 and dedicated to John the Baptist. Tucked within towering deodar trees, the church exudes colonial charm and haunting beauty — a stark contrast to the Buddhist temples you’ve seen earlier, and a testament to Dharamshala’s diverse spiritual heritage.

This afternoon, dive deeper into the artistic soul of Tibetan culture at the Norbulingka Institute. Known for preserving traditional crafts such as thangka painting, wood carving, and metalwork, the centre is a living museum of Tibetan artistry, nestled amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, tranquil fountains, and peacocks roaming freely.

End your day with a visit to the striking Gyuto Monastery, home to monks who specialise in tantric meditation practices. The monastery’s golden roof gleams against the Himalayan sky, and its peaceful ambience offers the perfect space for quiet contemplation.

As the sun sets behind the Dhauladhar mountains, return to your hotel with a heart full of reflection, having experienced Dharamshala’s unique blend of compassion, culture, and sacred tradition.

Overnight: Dharamshala

Meals: Breakfast

Today offers a different kind of discovery — one that blends natural beauty, spiritual stillness, and Himalayan village charm. After breakfast, lace up your walking shoes and embark on a refreshing day hike through the serene foothills of Himachal Pradesh. This gentle trek will take you from the heart of McLeod Ganj to Dharamkot, Galu Devi, Bhagsu Nag, and back — a loop that’s as peaceful as it is picturesque, and a perfect active interlude on your India highlights tour.

Begin your walk in McLeod Ganj, a colourful town that’s long been a hub for Tibetan culture and global travellers. From here, ascend toward the quaint village of Dharamkot, often referred to as the 'hippie village' of the hills. Fringed by forests and blessed with sweeping views of the Dhauladhar mountains, Dharamkot invites you to slow down and breathe in the crisp Himalayan air.

Continue along a scenic 2-kilometre forest trail to reach Galu Devi, a popular rest stop for trekkers heading toward Triund or Indrahar Pass. Here you’ll find a humble Shiva temple tucked into the woods and a tiny tea shop — perfect for a short pause with a steaming cup of chai and a mountain breeze.

From Galu Devi, begin your descent down a gentle 2-kilometre path leading to Bhagsu Nag, a village renowned for its ancient temple and relaxed hillside cafés. If you're feeling energised, take a brief detour to the nearby Bhagsu Waterfall — a peaceful cascade set against moss-covered rocks and shaded trees, ideal for a quiet moment of reflection.

The final stretch is an easy 1.5-kilometre walk along a mostly flat path, winding past homes, prayer flags, and local life before arriving back in McLeod Ganj. By now, your senses will be saturated — with the rustle of pine trees, the scent of incense drifting from shrines, and the subtle silence that only the mountains know how to hold.

Return to your hotel and enjoy a restful evening, having experienced Dharamshala not just as a place, but as a feeling etched in every footstep.

Overnight: Dharamshala

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, leave behind the cedar forests and spiritual calm of Dharamshala as your India highlights tour continues with a short but scenic drive to the enchanting village of Pragpur, nestled in the lush embrace of the Kangra Valley. The journey, lasting approximately two hours, winds through sleepy hamlets, terraced farmland, and emerald hills, offering a slower rhythm that gently prepares you for the heritage experience that awaits.

Upon arrival, check in to your charming heritage hotel — often a restored haveli or colonial-era bungalow — where time seems to pause and history lingers in every stone and beam.

The rest of the day is at your leisure to soak in the unique beauty of Pragpur, India’s very first declared heritage village. Wander through cobbled lanes lined with mud-plastered houses, slate-roofed temples, and ornamental gates. The village is a living museum of traditional architecture, rich with detail and layered with stories from generations past.

For those who enjoy walking, the surrounding countryside is a delight — gentle trails wind through orchards and small farms, and a stroll along the banks of the River Beas reveals tranquil views of slow-moving waters framed by the Himalayas in the distance.

Whether you choose to relax on a verandah with a pot of local tea or explore the village at your own pace, Pragpur offers a soulful pause in your journey — a place where the past lives gently in the present.

Overnight: Pragpur

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, your India highlights tour continues as you set out on a scenic drive through the Himalayan foothills to the legendary hill station of Shimla. The journey takes approximately six hours and offers ever-changing vistas — from the pastoral quiet of the Kangra Valley to pine-scented mountain roads that once echoed with the footsteps of British officers and Indian royals.

As your private vehicle climbs higher, the landscape transforms into misty hills, rhododendron forests, and winding curves that lead you deeper into the soul of Himachal Pradesh. En route, pass through charming villages and roadside markets where time slows and everyday life unfolds against a cinematic backdrop of mountain views.

Upon arrival in Shimla — once the summer capital of British India — you’ll check in to your elegant heritage hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and soak in the colonial charm that still lingers in the town’s architecture and atmosphere. Perhaps unwind with a hot cup of masala chai on your balcony, watching as clouds roll across distant peaks.

Tomorrow, you’ll explore Shimla’s iconic landmarks, but for now, breathe in the cool mountain air and let the gentle pace of the hills slow your thoughts.

Overnight: Shimla

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, step into a bygone era as you begin your exploration of Shimla, the erstwhile summer capital of British India and a true jewel of the India highlights tour. Today’s journey takes you through a town where colonial elegance and Himalayan beauty exist in perfect harmony.

Your first stop is the stately Viceregal Lodge, perched atop Observatory Hill. Once the seat of British power in the region, this grand structure — now the Indian Institute of Advanced Study — boasts majestic stone architecture, manicured gardens, and panoramic views that echo with the voices of history. It was within these very halls that pivotal decisions during the partition of India were once deliberated.

Continue to the beautiful Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India. Its neo-Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and historic clock tower are surrounded by the serene energy of Shimla Ridge. Just a short stroll away is a peaceful temple tucked amidst bustling activity, offering a moment of quiet reflection.

Next, head to the famous Scandal Point — where the Ridge meets Mall Road. Framed by rolling hills and open skies, this popular meeting spot is wrapped in legend and offers some of the most picturesque views in town. It's a perfect place to pause, snap photos, or simply take in the sweeping mountain panorama.

Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of Mall Road, the vibrant artery of Shimla. Stroll past colonial-era storefronts, charming cafés, local boutiques, and bookstores that line the pedestrian-only thoroughfare. Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate, shopping for hand-knitted shawls, or people-watching from a hillside bench, Mall Road effortlessly combines old-world charm with modern vibrancy.

As the sun begins to dip behind the hills, return to your hotel, filled with the magic of Shimla’s elegance and energy — a timeless highlight of your Himalayan journey.

Overnight: Shimla

Meals: Breakfast

Today is a gentle pause in your India highlights tour, giving you the freedom to soak up the atmosphere of Shimla at your own pace. With no scheduled activities and no car or driver included, the day is entirely yours — a perfect opportunity to unwind, revisit your favourite spots, or discover hidden corners of this charming hill town.

Stroll once more along the lively Mall Road, where every turn reveals something new — be it a quaint bookshop, a tucked-away café, or a craftsman's stall selling handmade wooden souvenirs. Stop for a creamy coffee or a cup of steaming masala chai, people-watch from a shaded bench, or browse through colourful bazaars filled with woollens, silver trinkets, and locally made preserves.

You may also want to wander through the Lakkar Bazaar, known for its intricate woodwork and walking sticks — a throwback to Shimla’s colonial legacy. Or simply find a quiet spot overlooking the surrounding valleys and let the crisp mountain air rejuvenate your spirit.

With the day free to follow your own rhythm, you’ll experience a more intimate side of Shimla — one that tourists often rush past but true travellers savour. It’s in these slow, unhurried moments that India reveals her quiet magic.

Overnight: Shimla

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, your India highlights tour takes a nostalgic turn as you transfer to the charming Shimla Railway Station to board the iconic Shimla–Kalka Toy Train. Operating since the colonial era and now a UNESCO-listed railway, this journey is one of the most scenic train rides in India — a slow, rhythmic passage through tunnels, pine forests, and old-world hill stations that bring the Raj-era ambience to life.

Board the Shimla–Kalka Express, which departs at 10:55 hrs. As the narrow-gauge train winds its way down the mountains, enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan foothills, crossing more than 100 tunnels, over 800 bridges, and charming countryside landscapes. This nostalgic ride brings a sense of wonder and calm as you journey through time and terrain.

At 14:30 hrs, you’ll disembark at Dharampur Station, where your driver will be waiting to escort you by road to Chandigarh — a modern and well-planned city known for its urban design and leafy boulevards. The drive takes approximately two hours through gently descending hills and plains.

On arrival in Chandigarh, check in to your hotel and relax. The evening is at leisure — a chance to unwind and reflect on the timeless journey you’ve just completed from the hills to the plains.

Overnight: Chandigarh

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, after breakfast, your India highlights tour leads you away from the modern geometry of Chandigarh and into the spiritual embrace of the Himalayan foothills. Board your private vehicle and begin the scenic drive to Rishikesh, a city nestled along the banks of the sacred Ganges River and revered worldwide as the birthplace of yoga and meditation.

The journey takes approximately five hours and offers glimpses of northern India’s rural charm — emerald fields, quiet temples tucked in roadside corners, and distant silhouettes of mountain ridges that grow larger with every passing mile. As you leave the bustle behind, the energy shifts — replaced by a slower, more sacred rhythm that begins to hum through the air.

Upon arrival in Rishikesh, check in to your riverside hotel and breathe in the calm. With its ashrams, saffron-robed sadhus, and the ever-flowing Ganges, Rishikesh invites stillness, contemplation, and spiritual reflection.

The remainder of the day is free for you to settle in, watch the river from your balcony, or simply listen to the distant sound of temple bells and chanting drifting through the twilight breeze.

Overnight: Rishikesh

Meals: Breakfast

Today is a day of quiet reflection and unhurried discovery as you enjoy a full day at leisure in the sacred city of Rishikesh. With no fixed plans and no car or driver included, you are free to explore this spiritual haven at your own pace — a soulful interlude in your India highlights tour.

Set along the banks of the mighty Ganges River, Rishikesh is a city that invites you to slow down and tune in. Begin your morning with a gentle walk along the riverfront ghats, where pilgrims perform morning rituals and yogis meditate beneath banyan trees. Visit nearby cafés offering organic teas and fresh vegetarian fare, or simply relax on a balcony with panoramic views of the emerald-green waters flowing below.

If you’re feeling inspired, join a drop-in yoga class at one of the many world-renowned ashrams or wander into small temples tucked between alleys, where the scent of incense drifts through the air and bells chime in rhythmic cadence. Rishikesh is a place where even a moment of stillness feels transformative.

As the day unfolds, consider ending it with a peaceful sit by the river, watching as the sky turns golden and devotees gather for the Ganga Aarti — a moving ceremony of light, chants, and reverence that brings the day to a spiritually rich close.

Overnight: Rishikesh

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, your spiritual journey through Rishikesh unfolds with a guided exploration of some of the city’s most sacred and storied sites. As part of your India highlights tour, today promises deep cultural immersion and soul-enriching encounters along the banks of the sacred Ganges.

After breakfast, begin with a visit to the iconic Chaurasi Kutia, affectionately known as The Beatles Ashram. This peaceful complex, once home to the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Transcendental Meditation training centre, hosted The Beatles in 1968 and remains a fusion of Western pop history and Eastern spirituality. Wander through moss-covered meditation pods, see vibrant graffiti murals, and feel the lingering energy of musical and meditative legends.

Continue to the serene Sivananda Ashram, a centre of traditional yoga and Vedantic teachings. The tranquil ambience and chanting devotees offer a glimpse into the daily rhythm of yogic life, while the simple shrines and courtyards are steeped in silence and wisdom.

Next, explore the colourful enclave of Swarg Ashram, located across the river. Here, sacred halls and vibrant murals invite meditation and reflection. You’ll find spiritual bookstores, Ayurvedic stalls, and calm corners ideal for soaking in the river’s calming flow.

Return to your hotel in the afternoon to rest and prepare for an unforgettable evening steeped in devotion and beauty.

As the sun dips behind the Himalayan foothills, head out to visit Geeta Bhavan and Parmarth Niketan, two renowned spiritual centres along the banks of the Ganges. Stroll across the iconic Ram Jhula — a suspension bridge buzzing with pilgrims, monks, and travellers — and take in the timeless atmosphere that surrounds you.

At dusk, join the crowds on the riverbank for the awe-inspiring Ganga Aarti. As lamps are lit, bells ring, and hymns rise into the sky, feel the profound emotion that flows through this sacred ceremony — a moment that captures the spiritual heart of India in its purest form.

Overnight: Rishikesh

Meals: Breakfast

As dawn breaks over the hills of Rishikesh, your India highlights tour begins its final leg. After an early breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Haridwar Railway Station — a journey of spiritual departure, as you leave the serenity of the Ganges behind and journey toward India’s vibrant capital.

Board the modern and efficient Vande Bharat Express departing at 08:04 hrs. (Note: this train does not operate on Thursdays). Settle into your air-conditioned carriage and enjoy a smooth, scenic journey through the heart of northern India. The journey to Delhi takes approximately 3.5 hours, passing fields, villages, and bustling railway halts that offer a glimpse into everyday Indian life in motion.

Arrive in New Delhi at around 11:45 hrs., where you’ll be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, the remainder of the day is free to relax — whether that means indulging in room service, taking a nap, or perhaps heading out for a gentle stroll near Connaught Place or India Gate, depending on your location.

The contrast from Rishikesh to Delhi is striking — from peaceful riverbanks to the pulse of a global capital — offering one final dimension to your Indian journey before it draws to a close.

Overnight: Delhi

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, your India highlights tour continues with a transition from modern Delhi to the regal refinement of Awadh. Check out from your hotel and transfer to Delhi Airport to board your flight to Lucknow.

You’ll fly on Air India flight AI 837, departing at 13:35 hrs and arriving in Lucknow by 14:55 hrs. As your aircraft descends over the plains of Uttar Pradesh, the city of Lucknow welcomes you with its timeless elegance and gentle rhythm.

Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is yours to relax and soak in the ambience of this storied city.

Lucknow, often referred to as the cultural capital of North India, is a city steeped in history, poetry, and sophistication. It is here that the Nawabs of Awadh once ruled — connoisseurs of art, architecture, fine cuisine, and etiquette. From the lilting cadence of Urdu poetry to the delicacy of kebabs prepared with over 100 spices, Lucknow offers a sensory experience that is as refined as it is unforgettable.

This evening, enjoy the leisurely charm of your surroundings, where every corner whispers tales of Nawabi grandeur and genteel hospitality.

Overnight: Lucknow

Meals: Breakfast

Today, your India highlights tour takes you deep into the historic soul of Lucknow — a city renowned for its poetic grace, architectural beauty, and refined cultural traditions. Prepare to be swept away by the charm of Nawabi-era monuments and living traditions that continue to define this regal city.

Begin with a visit to the magnificent Asafi Imambara (also known as Bara Imambara), one of the largest arched constructions of its kind in the world, built without the use of beams or pillars. Wander through the grand halls and marvel at the intriguing Bhool Bhulaiya, a labyrinth of narrow passageways that test even the most confident navigators.

Continue to the splendid Husainabad Imambara, often called the Chhota Imambara. Glittering chandeliers, stained glass, and calligraphy showcase the opulence of Shia Islamic architecture at its finest. Just nearby, you’ll witness the iconic Rumi Darwaza — a massive Mughal-style gateway that has come to symbolise Lucknow itself.

Pause for reflection at the serene Asfi Mosque, nestled within the Imambara complex. Its white domes and arched arcades are an exquisite example of symmetry and elegance.

Later, head to the Dhobi Ghat on the banks of the River Gomti, where a vibrant and visual spectacle awaits. Witness rows upon rows of chikan-embroidered garments — wet, coloured, and delicate — drying gracefully in the sun. This is Lucknow’s living textile heritage in motion, a tribute to its mastery of handcraft and elegance in every thread.

With its blend of visual grandeur, spiritual calm, and cultural detail, today is a true immersion into the heritage of Awadh.

Overnight: Lucknow

Meals: Breakfast

This morning, after breakfast, your India highlights tour takes a spiritual turn as you bid farewell to the refined grace of Lucknow and set off by private vehicle towards the timeless city of Varanasi — one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and the beating spiritual heart of India.

The journey, which takes approximately five hours, reveals a changing landscape — from the Nawabi elegance of Awadh to the raw, powerful mystique of the Ganges basin. As you travel through the countryside, watch daily life unfold: vibrant roadside bazaars, sugarcane fields, grazing buffaloes, and temple silhouettes rising above sleepy towns.

Upon arrival in Varanasi, you will be warmly received and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take the remainder of the day to unwind. Rest, refresh, and prepare — for the days ahead promise extraordinary experiences of devotion, death, and rebirth, all flowing on the sacred banks of the Ganga.

Varanasi isn’t just a destination — it’s an awakening.

Overnight: Varanasi

Meals: Breakfast

Today is one of the most profound experiences of your India highlights tour, as you dive deep into the sacred rhythm of Varanasi — a city where life and death converge on the banks of the Ganges in a continuous spiritual symphony.

Rise early for a soul-stirring sunrise boat ride on the River Ganges (subject to water levels). As the first light breaks over the horizon, the ghats come alive with devotion — saffron-clad sadhus performing yogic stretches, priests offering prayers to the sun, and pilgrims bathing in the holy waters, seeking purification. The boat glides silently past cremation ghats and ancient palaces, revealing a timeless city awakening to life.

After this unforgettable morning, return to your hotel for a well-deserved breakfast and some time to relax.

In the afternoon, step into the living fabric of the city on a Bengali Tola Heritage Walk, guided by an expert deeply familiar with the city's spiritual and cultural layers. Start at a historic fortress before meandering through the narrow alleyways that pulse with sacred chants and everyday bustle. Discover the oldest surviving Shiva temple in Varanasi, tucked between homes and shrines, then walk on to Bengali Tola, the Bengali enclave famous for its cultural richness and hidden Kali shrine. This walk ends at the atmospheric Dasashwamedh Ghat — the legendary embankment of the Ten-Horse Sacrifice — and the spiritual heart of Varanasi’s riverside rituals.

As dusk falls, witness the majestic Ganga Aarti ceremony — a breathtaking offering of fire, chants, and music to the sacred river. The glowing lamps, rhythmic mantras, and swirling incense create a spectacle that feels both ancient and eternal, leaving an indelible mark on your heart.

Overnight: Varanasi

Meals: Breakfast

Today marks a deeply contemplative chapter in your India highlights tour, blending enlightenment, mortality, and the mysteries of spiritual rebirth. Begin the morning with a short excursion to Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s holiest pilgrimage sites. Just outside Varanasi, this serene enclave is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodhgaya — known as the “Dharmachakra Pravartana” or the turning of the Wheel of Law.

Walk among the tranquil ruins of monasteries and stupas, including the impressive Dhamek Stupa, where the echoes of ancient teachings still linger in the soft breeze. Explore the Archaeological Museum to view remarkable artefacts, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka — now India’s national emblem.

Return to your hotel to relax and refresh in the quiet of the afternoon, allowing the morning’s reflections to settle.

In the early evening, enjoy dinner before setting out on an extraordinary and thought-provoking Death & Rebirth Walk through the mystic lanes of Varanasi, led by a knowledgeable local guide. This walk is not for the faint-hearted — but for the spiritually curious, it offers profound insight.

Your journey begins at a fertility temple and ends at one of the city’s cremation ghats. Along the way, visit a little-known ashram practising tantric non-dualism, where black-robed renunciants meditate amidst the flames of death. Discuss the Hindu cycle of samsara — the eternal loop of death and rebirth — and learn about karma, liberation, and the spiritual practices that seek to transcend worldly ties. Pause at a modest chai shop, and finally, reach the cremation grounds, where life’s impermanence is on full, sacred display. The experience concludes with a moving temple aarti (worship service) — a poignant finale to a deeply spiritual day.

Overnight: Varanasi

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, your India highlights tour continues with a scenic overland journey from the spiritual depths of Varanasi to the artistic heart of Khajuraho — home to one of the most extraordinary temple complexes in the world. After breakfast, set out in your private vehicle for a drive of approximately seven hours through the landscapes of rural Madhya Pradesh.

Along the way, catch glimpses of life in the heartland — farmers tending to fields, local markets bustling with colour, and bullock carts meandering through sleepy villages. This journey is more than just a transfer; it's a tapestry of authentic India unfolding with every passing mile.

Upon arrival in Khajuraho, check in to your hotel and take the evening to unwind. The air here feels quieter, more meditative, as if preparing you for the mystical art and architectural wonders that await tomorrow.

Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its remarkable collection of temples adorned with intricate carvings that celebrate life, love, and divine sensuality — a powerful contrast to the spiritual intensity of Varanasi, yet equally sacred in its own right.

Overnight: Khajuraho

Meals: Breakfast

Today’s chapter of your India highlights tour invites you into a mesmerising world where spirituality and sensuality coexist in stunning harmony. After breakfast, set out to explore the legendary Khajuraho Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s most astonishing architectural marvels.

Begin with the Western Group of Temples — the most elaborate and best-preserved of all. Step into a living museum of devotion and desire as you marvel at Kandariya Mahadev Temple, the tallest and most ornate shrine, richly adorned with hundreds of sculpted figures. Visit the Lakshman Temple with its perfectly symmetrical layout and finely detailed carvings depicting divine life and mortal pleasures. Continue to Jagdambi, Vishwanath, and Chitragupta Temples, each offering a unique lens into the cultural, spiritual, and artistic ideals of the Chandela dynasty. All of this is framed by manicured lawns and a tranquil garden, creating an oasis of serenity in the heart of central India.

In the afternoon, explore the Eastern Group of Temples, a fascinating contrast that combines both Jain and Hindu religious influences. Admire the minimalist grace of the Parsvanath Temple, the intricately sculpted detail of Adinath and Ghantai Temples, and the sacred calm of the Hanuman, Brahma, Vamana, and Javari Temples. These shrines speak not only of religious devotion but also of the refined aesthetics and social life of the era.

With every sculpture and stone, Khajuraho reveals a civilisation that understood the divine in every expression of life — love, art, meditation, and joy. It’s a place that transcends time, speaking directly to the soul.

Return to your hotel in the evening, your mind swirling with the poetry of carved stone and the echoes of ancient chants still clinging to the temple walls.

Overnight: Khajuraho

Meals: Breakfast

Your unforgettable India highlights tour draws to a close today. After breakfast, enjoy a final morning of reflection and serenity in Khajuraho, perhaps revisiting a favourite temple or simply savouring the peaceful garden views from your hotel.

Later, you will be transferred to Khajuraho Railway Station to board the modern and efficient Vande Bharat Express bound for Delhi. The train departs at 14:50 hrs and arrives in the capital by 23:10 hrs. Please note: this train does not operate on Mondays, and schedules may vary slightly.

Relax in your comfortable seat as you journey through the heart of India one last time — a moving panorama of villages, rivers, and endless horizons. This high-speed rail journey offers a fitting end to your deep dive into India’s history, spirituality, and culture.

Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met and transferred to Indira Gandhi International Airport to board your homeward flight. As you take off into the night sky, carry with you the vibrant memories, colours, rituals, and warm smiles of a country that has touched your heart in ways words can scarcely describe.

Meals: Breakfast

After an extraordinary journey across sacred cities, heritage towns, and Himalayan foothills, your India highlights tour comes to its poignant conclusion today. Depending on your international flight time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to Indira Gandhi International Airport for your departure.

As you bid farewell to India — a land of layered cultures, ancient wisdom, vibrant street life, and spiritual resonance — take a final moment to reflect on the memories gathered: sunrise boat rides on the Ganges, peaceful Himalayan hikes, golden temples, regal palaces, soulful rituals, and the warmth of the people who welcomed you at every step.

Though your journey ends today, India will forever remain a part of your story — woven into your heart through colour, sound, taste, and spirit. Until next time, namaste.

Meals: Breakfast (if time permits)