11 Day Golden Triangle With Varanasi
International, In-Country Flights
Premium Accomodation
Fully Escorted
7-Day Change of Mind
Day by Day Itinerary
Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Varanasi
Highlights
- Wander through Delhi’s Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, boasting Mughal architecture
- Embark on an exhilarating cycle rickshaw ride through Old Delhi’s bustling streets and markets
- Marvel at the Qutub Minar’s towering minaret, renowned for its intricate Islamic carvings
- Behold the Taj Mahal, a breathtaking white marble mausoleum that epitomizes eternal love
- Venture into Agra Fort and uncover a grand Mughal fortress featuring impressive red sandstone walls and elegant palaces
- Visit Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, the “Baby Taj”, a stunning Mughal mausoleum known for its exquisite marble inlay work
- Admire Jaipur City Palace, featuring exquisite courtyards and opulent rooms that reflect the city’s rich Mughal and Rajasthani heritage
- Discover Jantar Mantar’s astronomical wonders and explore Amber Fort’s majestic architecture and panoramic views
- Enjoy a serene sunrise Ganges River boat ride in Varanasi, where golden light bathes tranquil ghats and sacred rituals unfold on the holy Ganges
- Explore Sarnath’s ancient ruins and experience the evening Aarti in Varanasi, with sacred rituals and mesmerizing chant
Itinerary
Home Delhi
Namaste. Welcome to India!
On arrival into Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, be met by our representative outside the baggage claim area and escorted to a waiting vehicle for your transfer to the hotel. Our guide will be holding a sign marked Asia Vacation Group. Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Delhi, India’s bustling capital, blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. It features iconic landmarks, vibrant markets, diverse cuisine, and rich cultural heritage.
Please Note: Although most flights arrive late at night, due to airline flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur one day prior.
Meal: In-flight
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar 4* or similar
Delhi
Start your Old Delhi sightseeing tour with a drive past the imposing Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once served as the Mughal Empire’s main residence. Next, visit the grand Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, known for its stunning architecture and vast courtyard. Afterward, embark on a vibrant rickshaw ride through the bustling Chandni Chowk market, experience the lively atmosphere, soak in the colourful bazaars, and breathe in the aromas of local spices and street food.
Transition to New Delhi with a stop at the iconic India Gate, a war memorial surrounded by lush gardens. Continue to the Government Buildings, including the Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament House, for a photo opportunity amidst their impressive colonial architecture. Conclude your tour with a visit to the Qutub Minar, an ancient 73-meter tall minaret and another UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing intricate carvings and historical significance.
Please Note: When visiting the Jama Masjid, dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered, women may need to cover their head, remove shoes, and respect prayer times.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar 4* or similar
Delhi Agra
Begin your journey from Delhi to Agra, (250 km / 4.5 hours), a drive through the Indian countryside, offering glimpses of rural life. Upon arrival in Agra, first visit the Agra Fort, a massive red sandstone fortress with stunning Mughal architecture, rich history, and panoramic views of the Yamuna River. Explore its majestic halls, including the Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas, which highlight the grandeur of Mughal rule.
Next, head to Itmad-ud-Daula, also known as the “Baby Taj,” renowned for its intricate marble inlay work and serene gardens. This exquisite tomb is a precursor to the Taj Mahal and showcases delicate craftsmanship.
Conclude your day with a visit to the Taj Mahal for sunset. Witness the iconic white marble mausoleum bathed in golden hues as the sun sets, creating a breathtaking and romantic scene. This experience captures the timeless beauty of one of the world’s most famous landmarks.
Please Note: The Taj Mahal remains closed every Friday.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Grand Mercure Agra 4.5* or similar
Agra Jaipur
Spend this morning at leisure or alternatively you may wish to independently revisit the Taj Mahal for sunrise.
Later travel from Agra to Jaipur, (320 km / 5.5 hours), stopping en route at Abhaneri to explore its stunning stepwells, notably the Chand Baori, an ancient marvel with intricate geometric patterns and 3,500 steps. Continue to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s vibrant capital.
Jaipur, the “Pink City” of Rajasthan, is renowned for its stunning palaces, forts, and vibrant bazaars. The city’s rich history and vibrant culture make it a captivating destination. Everywhere you will see the monuments of its Mughal rulers. Jaipur is one of the main centers for shopping in India — especially with regard to textiles, jewelry, stones carpets, etc.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ramada by Wyndham Jaipur 5* or similar
Jaipur
Following a relaxing breakfast, embark on a tour of the Amber Fort, a magnificent example of a Rajput Fort building at its best.
Start with a scenic drive or jeep ride up the hill to the majestic fort. Explore the grand entrance, Suraj Pol, and wander through the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) with its dazzling mirror work. Admire the intricately painted Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and the ornate Sukh Niwas (Pleasure Hall), where a unique cooling system was used. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Aravalli Hills and Maota Lake. Stroll through the fort’s courtyards and gardens, capturing the fort’s grandeur and historical significance.
Enjoy an afternoon at your leisure for to explore the city’s riches on your own.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ramada by Wyndham Jaipur 5* or similar
Jaipur
Enjoy a relaxing morning to independently explore the city before an afternoon visit to the City Palace and Jantar Mantar with a photo stop at Hawa Mahal.
The City Palace in Jaipur, a stunning blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture, features lavish courtyards, intricate frescoes, and opulent rooms. Highlights include the Chandra Mahal, with its ornate interiors, and the Mubarak Mahal, showcasing exquisite textiles. The palace complex houses museums displaying royal artifacts and regal attire.
Nearby, the Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. It boasts remarkable instruments, including the Samrat Yantra, the world’s largest stone sundial, and the Hawa Yantra for wind observations. Both sites offer deep insights into Jaipur’s royal heritage and scientific achievements.
The Hawa Mahal, Jaipur’s “Palace of Winds,” features a stunning façade of 953 small windows, designed for royal women to observe street life while staying unseen.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Ramada by Wyndham Jaipur 5* or similar
Jaipur Delhi Varanasi
Depart Jaipur this morning on your flight to Varanasi, via Delhi.
Varanasi, one of India’s oldest cities, is a spiritual hub on the banks of the Ganges. Renowned for its ghats, vibrant rituals, and temples, it offers a profound cultural and religious experience. The city’s narrow alleys, bustling markets, and traditional ceremonies create a timeless, enchanting atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Madin Hotel 4* or similar
Varanasi
Rise early for a tranquil and mesmerizing sunrise Ganges River boat trip. The Ganges River, sacred to Hindus, weaves through ancient cities and serene landscapes.
As the first light of day illuminates the river’s surface, glide past the ghats, where devotees perform morning rituals and ceremonies, creating a vivid tableau of spirituality and daily life. The soft glow of sunrise bathes the ancient temples and bustling steps in golden hues, while the river’s gentle ripples reflect the awakening sky.
Return to your hotel to relax before an afternoon journey to the Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, Sarnath is where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment and revealed his doctrine and founded his monastic community. Key highlights include the Dhamek Stupa, a massive, intricately carved monument marking the sermon’s location, and the Ashoka Pillar, an iconic symbol of Buddhism with its lion capital. The nearby Sarnath Archaeological Museum houses a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts.
Pilgrims travel from around the world to Sarnath and there are monasteries constructed by Buddhists from several countries including China, Burma, Tibet and Japan.
The evening head down to the ghats to witness the Aarti, a captivating, ceremonial worship of the Ganges. It features rhythmic chants, vibrant fire offerings, and synchronized movements by priests. The spectacle, illuminated by lamps and surrounded by a throng of devotees, creates a mesmerizing and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
Please Note: When visiting Varanasi and its ghats, avoid wearing revealing clothing, disrespecting local customs, or disturbing religious practices. Don’t take photos of rituals without permission, and refrain from touching sacred items.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Madin Hotel 4* or similar
Varanasi Delhi
Relax until your transfer to Varanasi Airport for your flight back to Delhi. Spend time uncovering more that this incredible city has to offer. Maybe explore some of the bustling markets like Dilli Haat or Connaught Place, relax in the serene Lodi Gardens, or simply unwind in your hotel.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar 4* or similar
Delhi Home
Enjoy some leisure time until your transfer to Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport for your flight back home.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: In-flight
Home
Welcome home. We hope you have enjoyed your incredible Indian adventure with AVG Travels.
Included
- Return international flights
- Domestic flight from Jaipur to Varanasi and Varanasi to Delhi
- Small group journey, max. 24 travellers
- 9 nights in hand-picked premium hotel accommodation
- Daily breakfast, 1 dinner
- Return airport transfers in country on the first and last day of tour
- Fully escorted by English-speaking local guides
- Dedicated private air-conditioned vehicles
- All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary
- 2 bottles of water during touring and transfers
- 24/7 Support
Excluded
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Tipping and gratuities
- Any service not clearly mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities listed in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
Fine Print
How to book and Payments
AVG Travels offers you an “Instalment Payment Plan”, you will be required to settle a small deposit followed by a series of installments when you select to book your departure tour.
- First payment: You will be required to settle $300 per person deposit online through our website link.
- Second payment: You will be required to settle the second payment $2000 per person after 7 days when you receive our company invoice.
- Final payment: Final payment will be collected 120 days before your departure.
Tours due to depart within 120 days will require a $300 deposit followed by full payment after 7 days when you receive our company invoice.
However, you will have 7-day cooling off period. Please refer to “Flexible Cancellation” section.
Flexible Cancellation
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment. Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7-day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including the reason for cancellation.
Flight Information
This package includes international flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane or other city if requested when selecting your departure city.
Interstate Surcharge
Surcharges may apply and will be shown during the booking process when choosing your departure city.
In this package, we will use a selection of different airlines which may include a mix of full-service carriers or low-cost carriers. Luggage allowance is included.
- Some flights will require a minimum of 1 transit (maximum 2).
- All tickets will include 20-23 kilos checked baggage per person, along with 7 kilos of hand luggage.
- Despite the airlines baggage allowance, we recommend travelling with 20 kilos per person due to restrictions with internal flights (where applicable), as well as coach and train transportation. Also, you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters is not included. If travelling over this amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable direct.
- Once ticketed, flights are non-refundable. Any changes will be subject to the airline rules, Airline change fees and an AVG Travels change fee of $250 per person.
- Full names as per passport (including all middle names) are required. Any error in the names submitted will be subject to an AVG Travels name change fee of $150 plus any applicable fees charged by the airline, or the ticket may be non-refundable with the purchase of a new ticket required.
- Any airline schedule changes or cancellations are beyond our control. It is important that you, as the customer, stay up-to-date with the latest airline schedule information prior to your departure. If a schedule change results in extended transits or an earlier/later departure from your destination, any additional accommodation or alternative arrangements will be at the traveler’s expense.
- Any airline ‘extras’ such as pre-allocated seating is at your own arrangement (additional charges apply)
- After booking, the price payable may be subject to change as a result of factors beyond the control of AVG Travels. AVG Travels reserves the right to increase the price payable and this will be reflected on the customer’s invoice. Increases may be in relation to, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, airline taxes, airfare increases and fuel surcharges.
- Internal flights (where applicable and included in the itinerary) will be using a local carrier and may include low-cost carriers without meals or entertainment. Checked baggage will still be included for each passenger. Any additional baggage required is payable at time of check-in.
- If you are travelling with another party on a separate booking, we cannot guarantee that the same flights will be booked for all parties, as this strictly depends on availability.
- You will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters are not included. If travelling over the recommended amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable directly.
- In the event of that you no-show on your scheduled flight, please be aware the airline will require you to pay a no show fee, Airline reissue fee plus any additional airfare and taxes. AVG Travels will also charge a $250 admin fee to assist re accommodating you on the next available flight. Please note that depending on the airline’s policy, purchasing a new ticket may be required.
Flight requests, amendments or preferences
We understand customers may wish to request changes to their included airfares. If you wish to fly with a certain airline, land at a certain time or change your flight in other ways we will gladly provide you with a personalized quote tailored to your specific requirements.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
Airline Preferences – You may wish to fly with a particular airline
Cabin Preferences – These include upgrading to premium economy or business class
Extensions (start and end cities must remain the same) – You may request to extend your stay pre or post tour.
Meal Requests – You may request a specific meal for dietary requirements.
Seat Requests – If you would like to request particular seating. However please note, not all airlines allow the selection of pre-purchased seat arrangements.
Important Information
Group Size
Minimum: 2
Maximum: 24
If minimum numbers are not met you will be offered an alternative date. Surcharges may apply below minimum numbers.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $615 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Paired Solo Traveler
Not available
Triple Share
Not available
Children
Children must be 12 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent in flight and is subject to change depending on the flight schedule, please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent on land.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed in the itinerary is intended as a guide only and is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Premium Accommodation: These hotels and resorts boast top-tier amenities and a high level of luxury and sophistication such as spacious rooms, upscale decor, and exceptional
service. Guests can expect exclusive features like gourmet restaurants, spas, and generally a swimming pool. Located in prime locations, these establishments focus on comfort, quality, and
attention to detail, often in both urban and resort settings. This category could include international and domestic brands. While both provide an upscale experience, domestic
options emphasize regional elegance, whereas international brands ensure a familiar premium experience with a touch of local flair.
Arrival and Departure Transfers
Arrival and departure transfers are available on the first and last day of your tour only. If you booked additional pre- and post-tour accommodation with AVG Travels, transfers may be included on selected tours. Transfers may be shared with other travelers who will be on the same tour if arriving on the same flight or another flight arriving within a 60-minute window. If the holiday you book is LAND ONLY, arrival and departure transfers are NOT included in your tour price. You will need to make your own way to the joining hotel.
Physical Requirements
Fitness Level
A reasonable level of fitness is required but it’s more about spending time on your feet rather than covering large distances. You’ll be getting on and off coaches and boats, exploring the sights, climbing stairs and walking over a variety of terrains from cobblestones streets, hiking trails and moderate hills. There may be 1 or 2 days on tour when walking can cover 4- 6 kms over uneven terrain. Regular walking and light exercise before your trip can help ensure a more enjoyable and hassle-free travel experience.
Pace of Travel
The itinerary is moderately paced with a mix of sightseeing, travel between destinations and some time at leisure. Travel times between locations can vary, but can be long due to India’s vast size and traffic and road conditions may affect the schedule. Be prepared for some early starts and active days, but also enjoy some downtime to rest and explore independently. Flexibility will enhance your overall experience.
Tipping, Gratuities and Porterage
A friendly reminder that tipping, gratuities and porterage is not included in your package. Tipping is customary in many countries as it makes up the wage component for these services. Many countries don’t have a minimum wage like we do in Australia. Please be advised that USD $8 per person/day (or equivalent in local currency) will be collected in country by your tour escort on Day 1. This will cover all services throughout your journey but does not cover tipping or gratuities for room service, optional tours or any activities you do without the tour group. The tipping collection is not compulsory, however we have found that many travelers appreciate this as it relives the stress and worry of having to carry small amounts of money to tip for services throughout your tour.
Optional Tours
Optional tours are offered to give travelers the flexibility to choose activities that best align with their personal interests. While some excursions may be adventurous and involve a degree of personal risk, it is important that each traveler makes their own informed decision about whether to participate. Although all optional tours are carefully selected, operational details on the ground may differ from those initially presented by the planning team. Certain activities may require minimum or maximum participant numbers to proceed, and availability can be affected by factors such as public holidays, festivals, weather conditions, venue closures, or unforeseen events. In such cases, we will strive to provide alternative options to ensure a fulfilling experience.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with Nib Travel Insurance to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply with us.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveler’s responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return and must have more than 2 blank pages.
India
Australian passport holders are required to obtain an Indian e-Visa prior to departure. This must submitted at least 7 days and no more than 120 days prior to entry into India. Please visit the official government website and fill in the application form: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa – just follow the prompts on this website.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/ for up-to-date information in terms of entry requirements.
Weather
India’s weather varies widely due to its large size and diverse geography. The country generally experiences three seasons: a hot and dry summer (March to June), a monsoon season (June to September) with heavy rainfall, and a cooler winter (October to February). Coastal areas have milder winters and more humid conditions, while northern regions can experience cold temperatures. Pack accordingly based on the region and time of year you plan to visit.
Currency
India’s official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR), denoted by ₹. Currency notes come in denominations of ₹2, ₹5, ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2000. Coins are available in ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, and ₹10 denominations. ATMs are widely available in urban areas, and credit/debit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and major shops. It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas.
Electricity
India operates on a 230V supply voltage with a frequency of 50Hz. The plug types commonly used are Type C (two-pin round plug), Type D (three round pins in a triangular formation), and Type M (larger round pins and similar to type D). Generally hotels and accommodations will provide adapters upon request or have multi-purpose sockets, but it is wise to carry one for convenience.
How to Extend Your Stay
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
- Delhi $360 per room, per night based on double/twin room share including airport transfer
Post Tour Accommodation
- Delhi $360 per room, per night based on double/twin room share including airport transfer
Please select the number of extra nights required in the ‘Additional Nights Accommodation’ field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Miscellaneous
Typically Price
This price represents the approximate price of a tour of similar duration and quality. The value may be based on another company’s tour offering or the cost for each item if purchased individually at certain times of the year and any travel agents commission or mark up which AVG Travels can reduce or avoid due to its operational structure.
Dates & Prices
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