This 10-day trip across what is the Hindi heartland of India presents a fascinating historical and cultural cross section of North India – modern Delhi, regal Jaipur, Mughal Agra, erotic Khajuraho, and sacred Varanasi.

Starting in modern and ancient New and Old Delhi, followed by Jaipur with its royal overtures, the pinnacle of the Mughal style with the Taj Mahal in Agra, the ‘stuccoed Karma Sutra’ of the temples at Khajuraho, and finally the living temple of the Ganga in Varanasi – this trip will give you a snapshot of the various influences that have been brought to bear on the people and culture of the Gangetic plain over the past 1000 years.

Day 1 Delhi

Delhi, India's capital of around 14 million people – half of whom appear to have come to the airport for your arrival – is a colourful, busy, chaotic city packed with museums, art galleries, historic sites, shops and bazaars. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2 Delhi

Believed to have been founded around the 3rd century BC, Delhi is one of the oldest and most fought over cities in India. In fact, it has been rebuilt out of ruins at least seven times. Among the principal sights are India’s largest mosque Jama Masjid, Gandhi’s simple memorial Raj Ghat, the chaotic shopping street of Chandni Chowk, the lotus shaped modern Baha’i temple, and the towering observatory Qutb Minar.

Day 3 Jaipur

This morning depart for Jaipur, a 6 hour drive away. The capital of Rajasthan is washed in pink – the colour associated with auspiciousness and Rajput hospitality. Spend the afternoon walking through some of the many bazaars of the old city, with a stop (or two) in search of the perfect lassi and kulfi (buttermilk ice cream).

Day 4 Jaipur

Today a local guide will give you a sense of Jaipur’s regal history, which is evident throughout this charismatic city – from its hilltop forts and city palaces, to its broad avenues, and to its former ruler’s fascination for all things astronomical. Late afternoon free for relaxing at your heritage hotel or head out shopping for Jaipur’s folk-based arts and crafts.

Day 5 Agra

Morning drive 6 hours to Agra, via the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri. Built in the late 16th century, but abandoned shortly after completion, it is in a particularly well-preserved state.  After a short tour, continue on to Agra.

Day 6 Orchha

Rise early for a dawn visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal. Following breakfast, visit Agra Fort, where a guide will fill you in on Agra's intriguing and ruthless royal past, as well as the Fort’s innovative architectural features. After this visit depart for Orchha, a 5 hour drive.

Day 7 Khajuraho

This morning visit the temples and cenotaphs at Orchha before commencing the 4 hour drive to Khajuraho, arriving mid-afternoon. The famously erotic temples of Khajuraho - beautiful physical manifestations of the images conjured up by the Karma Sutra - are one of India’s gifts to the world. In the evening enjoy a sound and light show at the main temple complex.

Day 8 Varanasi

This morning visit Khajuraho's western group of temples with a local guide. In the afternoon board a flight to Varanasi - one of the most sacred cities for Hindus. In the early evening go to the main ghat for the daily ‘Aarti’ ritual, a beautiful sight for visitors and a sacred ceremony for Hindus, which your local guide will help you to understand.

Day 9 Varanasi

Take an early morning boat ride on the River Ganges. After breakfast, visit the local temples and the town of Sarnath, famous as the location of Buddha’s first sermon. In the evening board a train for the overnight trip back to Delhi.

Day 10 Delhi

Arrive Delhi this morning and transfer to the airport for international flight departure or to onward Indian destination for further travel.