Day 1: Varanasi, 3 nights

Today, we travel to the airport for our flight to Varanasi. On arrival, we transfer to the Taj Ganges Hotel which will be our home for the next three nights.

Day 2: Varanasi

Varanasi comes alive early in the morning as pilgrims flock to the river banks to bathe in the holy water and worship the rising sun. We rise early and enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges, before exploring the old city and Bharat Mata Temple. Later, we visit Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, followed by a visit to the archaeological museum. This evening, we experience the Aarti ceremony, an uplifting spiritual ceremony near the Ganges. During this Hindu ritual of worship, hundreds of lamps shine bright into the evening, held aloft by the pandits as they chant ancient and enchanting hymns.

Day 3: Varanasi

Our morning sightseeing includes visits to Banaras Hindu University campus, New Vishwanath Temple and Sankat Mochan Temple. This evening, perhaps join a walking tour exploring the importance of Varanasi to the Hindu faith?

Day 4: Delhi, Overnight

Our day is at leisure to further explore the intriguing city of Varanasi prior to our afternoon flight to Delhi. Upon arrival we make our way to the Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity or the ITC Maurya for our overnight stay.

Day 5: Depart Delhi / Arrive UK

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport, to begin our journey back to the UK. Our flight arrives later today.