Trip summary statistics
11days
Spiritual India
Delhi, Amritsar, Varanasi, Dehradun, Rishikesh
Behold the Golden Temple’s Palki Sahib—a moving display of devotion with hymns and chants.
Witness the powerful Wagah Border Flag Down Ceremony, where India meets Pakistan in unity.
Watch the sunrise from a Ganges cruise as devotees gather in sacred waters to worship.
Gain insight into Hindu spirituality at Varanasi’s temples, cremation grounds, and ashram.
Unwind in a serene Ganga-inspired oasis, an experience arranged by your Destination Expert.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
DelhiYou’ve Arrived
- Private Airport Transfer
- Airport VIP Meet & Greet
DelhiExplore a City of Contrasts
- Highlights of Delhi (with Lunch, 8 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
DelhiA Healthy Dose of History
- From Temples to Tombs: Historical Delhi (4 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
Delhi to AmritsarEn Route
- Private Airport Transfer
- Delhi - Amritsar [1 hr 15 min] - Economy
- Palki Ceremony at the Golden Temple (3 hrs)
AmritsarCross an Item off the Bucket List
- Exploration of Gobindgarh Fort (4 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
- Wagah Border Flag Down Ceremony (3 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
Amritsar to VaranasiThe Journey Continues…
- Private Airport Transfer
- Amritsar - Varanasi [(via Delhi, 6 hrs)] - Air/Economy Class
- Private Airport Transfer
- Evening Aarti Prayer Ceremony (3 hrs) - Guide
VaranasiA Journey Back in Time
- Subah-e-Banaras: The Auspicious Mornings of Varanasi (with Boat Cruise, 3-4 hrs) - Guide/Boat
- Samsara & Cycles of Life & Death: Evening Walk (4 hrs) - Guide
Varanasi to Dehradun to RishikeshOnward and Upward
- Private Airport Transfer
- Varanasi - Dehradun [(via Delhi, 5 hrs) ] - Economy
- Dehradun - Rishikesh [Airport, 1 hr] - Vehicle/Driver
RishikeshA Sight To Behold
- Highlights of Spiritual Rishikesh (8 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
RishikeshRelax and Recharge
- Wellness at the Taj Rishikesh
Rishikesh to Dehradun to DelhiBon Voyage
- Rishikesh - Dehradun [1 hr] - Vehicle/Driver
- Dehradun - Delhi [1 hr] - Economy
DELHI
You’ve Arrived
Meet your private driver and English-speaking assistant for an airport transfer.
Enjoy a private VIP escort through Delhi Airport. A representative will be waiting at the end of your flight's airbridge holding a sign with your name on it. They will escort you to the fast track line of Indian Customs, assist you with your baggage and accompany you to your vehicle transfer.
Where you’ll be staying
Heritage Room
DELHI
Explore a City of Contrasts
Today, experience a deep-dive into Delhi, India's at-the-same-time new and ancient capital; An amalgamation of regal history and diverse cultures. Today's delve into the nation's capital is a play on the five senses. Begin at the visually stunning Humayun's Tomb, a testament to Mughal architecture that predates the Taj Mahal. Immerse yourself in a transformative workshop with resilient women artisans, crafting art inspired by the tomb, fostering both sensory delight and community support. Continue through Shahjahanabad, the historic Mughal city, with a sensory-stirring walk. Engage in an Ittar or perfume-making workshop, tracing its origins to Mughal empress Noor Jahan. Then, visit an 8th-generation mittar studio, blend scents, and create your personalized fragrance as a memento from your trip.
Stop for an unforgettable lunch at Haveli Dharampura, a rare-find boutique hotel right in the heart of old Delhi that will transport you to a different era. In its quaint but elegant surroundings, tuck in for a true feast. Head up to the roof after lunch to see the popular pastime of kite fliers over the endless apartments in this area of town.
End your day on a rickshaw ride through the enchanting chaos of Chandni Chowk, reliving the golden age of Mughal splendor. Explore the tranquil oasis of Jama Masjid, echoing tales of cultural, religious, and historical significance before enjoying a private transfer back to your accommodations.
Where you’ll be staying
Heritage Room
DELHI
A Healthy Dose of History
Today, set out with your private guide and delve into Delhi's historical heart, the origin of countless Dillis (aka a Delhiite). The day unfolds the city's tales of love, deceit, mysticism, horror, and early politics. Begin at a lesser-known vantage point with a bird's-eye view of the expansive capital, unraveling the stories of Hindu, Turk, Mongol, and Afghani kings who shaped the foundations of the first Delhi. Discover a mosque believed to be frequented by Djinns, mystical beings in Islamic culture.
Stroll through rose gardens and explore a tomb that was once part of a British Mansion, complete with a boat house. Traverse step wells, tombs, and historic graves that punctuate this enchanting precinct. Venture into the iconic Qutub complex, home to the majestic Qutub Minar, its history narrated against the backdrop of the illuminated minaret. Wander through the beautifully lit complex, unveiling old temple ruins that unexpectedly house Delhi's first mosque. Built by the slave dynasty, this architectural marvel melds Hindu and Islamic influences, offering a treasure trove of artifacts, stories, and folklore—one monument at a time.
Where you’ll be staying
Heritage Room
DELHI TO AMRITSAR
En Route
Meet your private driver and English-speaking assistant for an airport transfer.
Board a direct flight from Delhi to Amritsar. Approximate travel time is 1 hour and 15 minutes
Experience the majestic Palki Sahib ceremony at the Golden Temple, a captivating ritual that occurs twice daily. As daylight wanes, the revered Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy book, is solemnly escorted to its nightly abode. The symbolic act involves a pause in the divine singing, with select hymns recited by an esteemed priest before the book is gently closed. Following a heartfelt prayer, the Guru Granth Sahib is tenderly placed upon a resplendent golden palanquin. Devotees lined up with reverence, come forward to partake in the divine act of carrying the sacred palanquin, accompanied by the melodic chanting and recitation of hymns. Amidst this spiritual spectacle, a lone trumpeter enhances the atmosphere, creating a spectacular and transcendent experience. Immerse yourself in this extraordinary display of devotion and tradition at the heart of the Golden Temple before continuing on with your day, or returning to your accommodations for the night.
Where you’ll be staying
Premium King Room
AMRITSAR
Cross an Item off the Bucket List
Nestled in Amritsar, Punjab, the 18th-century-built Gobindgarh Fort stands as a testament to India's rich history. Meticulously restored, the fortress has seen 300 years of Indian history, chronicling the Bhangi Misl era, Maharaja Ranjit Singh's reign, and beyond. For visitors to India, the fort offers a curated blend of history and culture. Immerse yourself in the 3D immersive show, "Sher-E-Punjab," transporting you to the 19th century, and wander through the Whispering Walls, a multimedia experience illuminating the fort's history.
Take an architectural walkthrough of 19th-century military aspects, explore the Sikhi martial arts museum, and witness opulence at Toshakhana, housing Maharaja Ranjit Singh's treasury. A digital art gallery celebrates Punjab's warrior saints. Engage in live folk art performances, from Ghatka to Bhangra, and peruse the Handicrafts Bazaar showcasing Punjab's brasswork, wood inlay, and Phulkari. The fort's cultural symphony, spanning Ladies Sangeet to Pagdi Museum, unfolds a grand spectacle for those seeking a rich blend of heritage and artistic finesse in a condensed yet captivating journey. At the end of this deep-dive into the region's history, you'll feel your time in Amritsar has been left that much more enriched.
Today - take part in a transcendent journey at the Wagah Border Flag Down Ceremony, a captivating, daily military spectacle at the Attari-Wagah border. Witness the meticulous precision and artistry as India's Border Security Force (BSF) and Pakistan's Pakistan Rangers jointly perform this historic tradition dating back to 1959. The ceremony unfolds with intricate dance-like maneuvers and striking leg-raising, creating a vibrant display often described as "colorful." This extraordinary event serves as a dual symbol, reflecting the deep-seated rivalry between two nations and the underlying spirit of brotherhood and cooperation. For the affluent North American traveler seeking a unique blend of history and cultural richness, the Wagah Border Flag Down Ceremony offers an unrivaled experience, where military tradition seamlessly intertwines with artistic finesse. Immerse yourself in this symbolic journey, a testament to the elegance and complexity that defines the relationship between India and Pakistan.
Where you’ll be staying
Premium King Room
AMRITSAR TO VARANASI
The Journey Continues…
Meet your private driver and English-speaking assistant for an airport transfer.
Board a flight from Amritsar to Varanasi with service via Delhi. Approximate flight time is 6 hours.
Meet your private driver and English-speaking assistant for an airport transfer.
As the sun gracefully descends, take an evening visit to the sacred Ganges, where the mesmerizing, daily Aarti (prayer) ceremony unfolds. The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is a radiant testament to devotion and bliss, allowing you to connect with the divine essence that surrounds you. Adorned with rituals that have echoed through the ages, this experience is truly exceptional. Your journey begins with a tranquil upriver float from Assi Ghat, the city bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun. Priests, dressed in traditional attire, arrange the ceremonial set-up, featuring brass lamps lit aflame, the idol of Ganga Devi, flowers, incense sticks, and conch shells. Conducted by knowledgeable pundits well-versed in the Vedas and Upanishads (massively important texts in Hinduism), the Aarti commences with the illumination of multi-tiered brass lamps and the rhythmic chanting of sacred mantras. The atmosphere resonates with the sanctifying echoes of conch shells and the fragrance of incense, creating a sacred space to worship Mother Ganga. This immersive experience offers a profound connection with the spiritual tapestry of Varanasi and no trip to the region is complete without partaking in an Aarti Prayer Ceremony.
Where you’ll be staying
Dhanurdhara Room
VARANASI
A Journey Back in Time
Today, you'll experience Varanasi at its best; As the sun rises, this ancient, spiritual, pilgramage town comes to life in profound ways for a religion that believes in rebirth and new beginnings. Your early morning boat journies along the ghats (river-landing stairs) of Varanasi, which are hubs of activity, the higher the sun reaches in the sky. Witness the vibrant tapestry of one of the world's oldest religions unfolding against the backdrop of the Ganges. Your boat ride from Assi Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat unveils the breathtaking hues of the river at dawn. As pilgrims perform morning prayers to the rising sun, the Ganges is adorned with a palette of red and gold. Navigate the quieter ghats, arriving at Assi Ghat for the morning Aarti— an intimate experience with the priests and the melodic chants of students of music. Cruise to Kedar Mandir, identified by its red and yellow steps, a hidden gem cherished by locals. Continue your exploration, delving into the rituals of Kushti Akharas, where the ancient art of wrestling intertwines with faith and fitness. In these traditional 'gymnasiums' along the ghats, witness wrestlers practicing age-old moves and rituals, a testament to the enduring spirit of Varanasi. Conclude your immersive morning with a stroll through the city, discovering its diverse activities, including Kushti Akharas and the local culinary delights for those open to savoring safe street food. Varanasi's morning rituals and vibrant traditions await your exploration.
This evening, embark on an evocative stroll with your private guide as you traverse various sites throughout the city, intimately connected with the cycles of life and death. Your walk starts with an interesting visit to a fertility temple and concludes at the sacred cremation grounds, thus seamlessly weaving together the themes of Samsara, the Hindu notions of life, death, and reincarnation. Wander through Banaras (the local, modified version of Varanasi), and head to the great, cremation ground, known as Mahashamstana, to explore an ashram following a path of tantric non-dualism. Encounter black-clothed renunciants meditating on the grounds, providing insights into the philosophy of death and rebirth. From the Kali temple to a chai shop, this journey culminates in one of the city's solemn spots but a profoundly important one. Delve into the mysteries of existence as you traverse this area of Banaras, contemplating the cyclical nature of life, and gaining a deeper understanding of the profound philosophy that pervades this sacred city.
Where you’ll be staying
Dhanurdhara Room
VARANASI TO DEHRADUN TO RISHIKESH
Onward and Upward
Meet your private driver and English-speaking assistant for an airport transfer.
Board a flight from Varanasi to Dehradun with service via Delhi. Approximate travel time is 5 hours, including layover.
Meet your private driver at the airport for a transfer to Rishikesh. Approximate travel time is 3 hours.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe Room Ganges View King
RISHIKESH
A Sight To Behold
Today, head into the spiritual heart of Rishikesh with the help of your expert guide. Start with a visit to Bharat Mandir, the city's oldest, most sacred, and renowned temple. Reinstalled by Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya in 789 A.D., this ancient temple holds deep historical significance, featured in revered Hindu scriptures. Lord Hrishikesh, also known as Shri Bharatji Maharaj, is venerated here as the incarnation of Lord Vishnu in Kaliyuga.
Adjacent to the holy Ganga in Swargashram lies the expansive complex of Geeta Bhawan, offering devotees over 1000 rooms for a comfortable, cost-free stay during their pilgrimage. Founded in 1942 by Pujya Swami Shukdevanand Ji Maharaj, Parmarth Niketan stands as the largest ashram in Rishikesh, providing a pure and sacred atmosphere amid lush gardens for thousands of pilgrims from around the globe.
Next take a journey into the cultural revolution at Beatles Ashram, where the legendary band, the Beatles, once sought spiritual solace in 1968. Now part of Rajaji National Park, the ashram bears witness to their transformative visit. Lastly, witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony at Triveni Ghat. Join the serene ritual as bhajans echo through the air, prayers are offered to Agni, the fire god, and the lamps flicker in a final act of reverence along the sacred riverbanks. Experience the spiritual resonance of Rishikesh through its timeless landmarks and rituals.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe Room Ganges View King
RISHIKESH
Relax and Recharge
Taj Rishikeh' 'J Wellness Circle' emerges as a serene oasis, nestled discreetly beneath the verdant expanse of the "Spa Lawn," calling seekers of ancient, healing wisdom. Inspired by the sacred essence of the Ganga, it embodies femininity, expansiveness, serenity, vitality, generosity, and resilience. Through bespoke experiences and time-honored Indian therapies, this sanctuary asks of you nothing but profound relaxation and revitalization, seamlessly merging holistic natural remedies, scrubs, and wraps for a harmonious journey of wellness and spiritual renewal.
Please note: Any Spa Services are to be paid directly to the hotel.
Where you’ll be staying
Deluxe Room Ganges View King
RISHIKESH TO DEHRADUN TO DELHI
Bon Voyage
Meet your private driver for a scenic transfer through the Himalayas to the Dehradun Airport. Approximate travel time is 1 hour.
Board a direct flight from Dehradun to Delhi. Approximate travel time is 1 hour.
DELHI
The Imperial
Steeped in the regal aura of 19th-century Indian palaces, The Imperial, an illustrious establishment since 1936, stands as the city's premier landmark on Janpath, formerly Queensway. Embracing the diverse influences of Victorian, Art Deco, and Lutyens styles, the hotel is a captivating tapestry of white marble colonnades, lush gardens, and opulent rooms and suites adorned with Italian marble, Persian carpets, antique chandeliers, and Rosewood furniture. A tribute to heritage seamlessly entwined with modern comfort, The Imperial offers an exquisite retreat for discerning travelers. Embark on a gastronomic journey at the diverse dining venues, from the Indo-style brasserie to decadent Italian feasts. The on-site bar, where hand-crafted cocktails dance to high-tempo beats, invites you to savor animated moments. Immerse yourself in a carefully curated spa experience that harmonizes body, mind, and soul, featuring bespoke treatments and rejuvenating massages. Take a refreshing plunge into the stunning outdoor swimming pool, where tranquility meets sophistication. A stay at The Imperial is an immersion into a realm where time-honored elegance meets contemporary luxury, crafting an unforgettable experience that resonates with the soul of India's capital.
AMRITSAR
Le Meridien
Set against Amritsar scenic landscape, Le Meridien is your gateway to exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Punjab. Strategically positioned for easy access to cultural gems like The Golden Temple, Ram Tirath Sthal, and the Durgiana Temple, this hotel beckons to the discerning leisure traveler. Enter the timeless embrace of the hotel's 147 guestrooms and suites, where elegance meets modernity. Adorned with tasteful art, infused with ample natural light, and equipped with contemporary amenities, each space offers a retreat of unparalleled sophistication after a day of exploration. As the sun sets, the hotel comes to life with an array of dining venues, offering the tantalizing flavors of pan-Asian and international cuisine. The lounge bar invites you to unwind with signature cocktails in an atmosphere of refined relaxation. For a holistic rejuvenation, the spa awaits with signature therapies, cultivating a serene ambiance and a personalized approach to well-being. Alternatively, bask in the ambiance of the outdoor swimming pool. Whether you choose to take a refreshing dip or recline on the sunbeds, this oasis becomes a sanctuary of repose. Le Meridien Amritsar, a haven where every moment invites you to explore and relax amidst the rich cultural heritage of Punjab, promising an unforgettable sojourn.
VARANASI
Brij Rama Palace
Located discreetly on the sacred banks of the Ganges River, the BrijRama Palace Hotel in Varanasi is a living legacy with a 210-year history, offering an exclusive riverside haven and architectural masterpiece that serves as a tranquil refuge amidst the lively chaos of the ghats and the vibrant city life that surrounds it. As you step through the doors of BrijRama Palace, you'll find yourself transported to a world of luxury within meticulously designed rooms and suites. Each space is a testament to the fusion of traditional aesthetics with modern amenities, providing a regal and serene retreat. Ornate furnishings and breathtaking views of the Ganges create an ambiance that is both opulent and tranquil, capturing the essence of the palace's historic charm. Indulge in authentic local cuisine at the rooftop restaurant, where panoramic views of the Ganges and the ghats create a mesmerizing backdrop for your meals. To further enhance the sense of tranquility, the spa offers traditional Ayurvedic treatments and holistic therapies administered by skilled therapists. As evening descends, witness the enchanting spectacle of the Ganga Aarti from the palace terrace. The flickering lamps on the Ganges River transform it into a celestial canvas for ancient prayers and rituals, creating an unforgettable and deeply spiritual ambiance. Immerse yourself in the timeless charm, regal splendor, and divine serenity that define this riverside palace, creating an experience that transcends the ordinary and resonates with the soul of Varanasi.
RISHIKESH
Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa
In the serene landscapes of Uttarakhand, the Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa stands as a tranquil retreat, offering a harmonious blend of nature and luxury. Nestled beside the Ganges River, the resort provides a serene escape, with the spiritual town of Rishikesh as its backdrop. The architecture is inspired by traditional Himalayan Mountain villages, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding lush greenery. The resort consists of well-appointed rooms and suites, each crafted to offer a comfortable and scenic abode, providing a peaceful retreat with modern amenities and warm interiors after exploring the spiritual and natural wonders of the region. You can indulge in a range of dining experiences, from authentic local cuisine to international flavors, all curated with precision and care. Spa at the resort offers rejuvenating wellness treatments, allowing you to unwind and connect with the tranquil surroundings. Whether it's a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the Ganges, a yoga session in the serene yoga pavilion, or an adventure-filled day exploring the nearby attractions, Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa invites you to embrace the natural beauty and spirituality of Uttarakhand in a luxurious and comfortable setting.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.








