Temple Tour of Khajuraho
Duration of Tour : 04 Nights / 05 Days
Destination Covered : Delhi - Khajuraho - Varanasi - Delhi
Day 1 : Delhi
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Khajuraho, the capital of the Chandela kings. The city's many temples were built in the short span of hundred years, from 950-1050 AD. Most were destroyed by Muslim invaders, and only 22 temples remain of the original 85. Khajuraho's temples are covered with hundreds of sculptured figures--a galaxy of gods and goddesses, beasts and serpents, and a multitude of erotic couples. After your transfer to the hotel to settle in, visit the eastern group of temples. This evening, enjoy a performance of "Dances of India" at the Main Temple.
Day 2 : Khajuraho
This morning, visit the western group, which are the main temples. This afternoon, fly to Varanasi, where you enjoy a demonstration of Ganga Aarti.
Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho
Day 3 : Varanasi
Rise very early this morning for a boat ride on River Ganges, as the best time to see the Ghats is early dawn. Human forms descend the steps in the morning mist, their numbers increasing until a solemn, silent multitude moves to immerse itself in the holy stream. See the Bathing Ghats, Cremation Ghats, and the Gyanvapi Mosque built in the 17th century. Afterward, visit the Golden Temple and walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi, returning to the hotel breakfast. Later, take a sightseeing tour of Varanasi and its temples, including the Bharat Mata Temple, Emperor Aurangazeb's Mosque, and the Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple). Visit Varanasi Hindu University, a great seat of Oriental learning. Explore the Durga (Goddess of Power) Temple, popularly known as the Monkey Temple because of hundreds of monkeys in the courtyard. Enjoy a High Tea and a demonstration of mehndi application (henna), typically a part of wedding preparations. Group members can get their own little "tattoos" if they wish. A phoolwalla, resplendent in dhoti/kurta and Gandhi cap, will show you how flower garlands are strung and you will receive your own to garland and a gajra (jasmine flower garland for the wrist) to wear.
Ganga Aarti, Varanasi
Day 4 : Varanasi - Delhi
After breakfast, visit Saranath, where the Buddha preached his first sermon to five disciples at Deer Park. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, the location of a once-resplendent monastery. A large complex of ruined monasteries, some dating from the 3rd century BC, cover the area and a new Buddhist monastery stands nearby. Sarnath also has an interesting archaeological museum, which has preserved the famous Sarnath Pillar, whose capital forms India's national emblem. Later, fly to Delhi
Day 5 : Departure Day
After breakfast this morning, head to the International Airport for your return flights.
