North India Pilgrimage Triangle

Day 01Arrive Delhi

Arrive by International flight, after traditional Indian style ‘Swagat’ (Welcome) by Exceptional Escapes representative, he would assist you at the airport & transfer to hotel for check in.

Delhi takes pride in being the capital of the country for many dynasties. It is in fact a city wrapped in legend, where time flows differently, and where every moment becomes a moment of history. A vibrant melting pot, it encapsulates two very different worlds, the 'old' and the 'new', each representing delectably different experiences. Come experience it...

Overnight Hotel – Delhi

Day 02Delhi

Post breakfast start your day with a private guided city of Old Delhi

Raj Ghat, memorial to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. It is a simple black marble platform that marks the spot of his cremation20on 31 January 1948.

Experience the rickshaw ride ‘a friendly local guides takes you through the bustling streets for an authentic glimpse of the ‘walled city’ in the heart of Delhi. As you travel by foot and rickshaw, explore Khari Baoli, Spice Market, Visit a Sikh temple & admire historical land mark and more…

Post lunch Continue private guided tour of New Delhi:

'AkshardhamTemple' means the divine abode of God. It is hailed as an eternal place of devotion, purity and peace. Swaminarayan Akshardham at New Delhi is a Mandir – an abode of God, a Hindu house of worship, and a spiritual and cultural campus dedicated to devotion, learning and harmony. Timeless Hindu spiritual messages, vibrant devotional traditions and ancient architecture all are echoed in its art and architecture.The mandir is a humble tribute to Bhagwan Swaminarayan (1781- 1830), the avatars, devas and great sages of Hinduism. The traditionally-styled complex was inaugurated on 6 November 2005 with the blessings of HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj and through the devoted efforts of skilled artisans and volunteers.

Drive past India Gate, and memorial built in the year 1931 to commemorate the Indian soldiers who died in the World War I & the Afghan Wars. The names of the soldiers who died in these wars are inscribed on the walls.

President's House, the official residence of the President of India, built in the year 1931. Until 1950 it was known as Viceroy's House & served as the residence of the Governor-General of British India.

Also visit the Lotus Temple, located in Delhi, India, is a Bahá'í House of Worship that was dedicated in December 1986. Notable for its flowerlike shape, it has become a prominent attraction in the city. Like all Bahá'í Houses of Worship, the Lotus Temple is open to all, regardless of religion or any other qualification enjoy rest of the free time enjoy light sightseeing of Delhi & shopping at some High end Fashion stores of Delhi – One of the most happening places of Delhi. Visit Craft Emporiums etc with our shopping expert.

Overnight Hotel – Delhi (B)

Day 03Delhi – Haridwar (220 Kms / 4 Hours Approx)

Post breakfast drive to Haridwar; is one of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage places. River Ganges enters the North Indian plains at Haridwar. Haridwar or 'Gateway to Gods' is also known by the names of Mayapuri, Kapila and Gangadwar. Hindu pilgrims and devotees gather at Haridwar to offer prayers on auspicious occasions. The water of River Ganga is considered so sacred at Haridwar that pilgrims carry back the water from the Ganges.on arrival check into your Hotel.

Later a visit of Mansa Devi temple, temple of Goddess Mansa Devi is situated at the top of Bilwa Parwat. The rope-way with its brightly colored cable cars takes devotees to the old hilltop of Mansa Devi.

In evening observe witness spectacular view of evening (Aarti) at Har Ki Pauri, sacred Ghat was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhartrihari. It is believed that Bhartrihari eventually came to Haridwar to meditate by the banks of holy Ganga. This sacred bathing ghat is also known as Brahmakund.

Rest of the time for relax.

Overnight Hotel – Haridwar (B)

Day 04Haridwar- Rishikesh - Haridwar (20 Kms / 45 Min.)

Optional - Start your day with yoga & Meditation with a yoga master.

Post breakfast proceed for a day excursion of Rishikesh, on arrival check into your hotel.

Rishikesh has spectacular view of jungle-clad hills. Rishikesh has also confluence of River Ganges and Chandrabhaga. The glorious attraction of Rishikesh is none other than the great river Ganges herself, running rapidly throughout the city. In the ancient time and still so many yogis, rishis, sages and sannyasis attracted to Rishikesh to practice yoga in this peaceful location. Since then, Rishikesh has known as an abode of sages. Rishikesh is a holy town with so many Ashrams and it is famous for the yoga worldwide. Rishikesh is now world famous as a Yoga Capital of the world. Every year during the March month one week long International yoga festival is hosted by Rishikesh

Later proceed for city tour of Rishikesh visiting

Laxman Jhula; suspension Iron Bridge Lakshman Jhula was built in 1929. This is where Rama's brother Lakshman is said to have crossed the river on jute ropes. One can enjoy the spectacular surroundings & the cool breeze from the River while standing on the bridge.

Janki Jhula; this bridge is named after the wife of Lord Rama. Janki Setu (bridge) has been constructed keeping in mind the safety of the travellers on foot as well as vehicles. It is 274 mt long and It is the first three-lane suspension bridge of Rishikesh, which is wide enough to have separate lanes for pedestrians and vehicles. Its proximity with the prominent Ram Jhula makes it a must-visit for travellers.

Ram Jhula; another suspended bridge close to Lakshman Jhula is the Ram Jhula- This suspended bridge was recently built between Shivanand & Sawarg Ashram. It is similar to the Lakshman Jhula. It is also known as Shivanand Jhula.

Geeta Bhavan; famous for its attractive paintings and statues from the Hindu mythology. Situated just across the Lakshman Jhula.

In the evening Ganga Aarti at Parmarth Niketan is organized and performed by ashram residents, particularly the children who are studying the Vedas there. The ceremony commences with the singing of bhajans, prayers, and a purifying and sacred ritual that takes place around a fire, with the offerings made to Agni, the fire god. The lamps are lit and the aarti takes place as the final part of the ceremony. The children sing along with the spiritual head of the ashram, in sweet, haunting voices. A huge statue of Lord Shiva overlooks the proceedings.

Rest of the time is free for relax.

Overnight Hotel – Haridwar (B)

Day 05Haridwar – Dehradun (45 Kms / 1 Hrs)
Dehradun – Ayodhya via Delhi (Indigo @ 0800 / 1315 Hrs)

Transfer to Dehradun airport to board the flight to Ayodhya, Exceptional Escapes representative would assist you at airport and transfer to Hotel for check in.

Ayodhya, also called Oudh or Awadh, town, south-central Uttar Pradesh state, northern India. It lies on the Ghaghara River just east of Faizabad.An ancient town, Ayodhya is regarded as one of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus, revered because of its association in the great Indian epic poem Ramayana with the birth of Rama and with the rule of his father, Dasharatha. According to this source, the town was prosperous and well fortified and had a large population. on arrival check into your hotel.

Ram Mandir is a Hindu temple that is being built in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India, at the site of Ram Janmabhoomi, according to the Ramayana the birthplace

Ram ki Paidi is actually a flight of steps on Nayaghat near the bank of the Saryu River where huge crowds of pilgrims and the devotees take a bath in the holy waters of the river. The original steps were washed away by the strong currents of the river. A new ghat with the steps was constructed by the joint effort of the then Chief Minister of UP, Shri Shripati Mishra, and his irrigation minister Shri Vir Bahadur Singh during the period 1984-1985.

Evening Guided Aarti at Sarayu River in Ayodhya. Evening 'Aarti' performed on the banks of Ayodhya's Sarayu River with full religious zeal. The devotees will have to reach Ram Janmabhoomi by taking the pass at 6:00 pm and they will be able to enjoy the evening Aarti to be held at 6:15 pm with devotion. There is a seating arrangement for 70 people in front of Ramlala in the premises, but in terms of security.

Overnight Hotel – Ayodhya (B)

Day 06Ayodhya – Varanasi Via Prayagraj (220 Kms / 5-6 Hrs Approx)

Post breakfast proceed for guided sightseeing of Ayodhya visiting;

Hanuman Garhi; is a 10th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu God, Hanuman. It is one of the most important temples in Ayodhya as it is customary to visit Hanuman Garhi before visiting the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. It is believed that Lord Hanuman lived at the temple site guarding Ayodhya

Kanak Bhawan; Legend goes that Ram was coming home with his bride, Janaki, the beautiful daughter of Raja Janak. Kaikeyi was in a dilemma – what would be a good ‘mukh dikhai’ for the first daughter-in-law of Raja Dashrath? She didn’t want anyone to feel she was any less a mother to Ram than Maa Kaushalya, so, a palace for the newlyweds would be ideal, she thought. Kanak Bhawan, dating back to Treta Yug, is the beautiful palace that she gifted to Sita. The beautiful idols of Goddess Sita along with Lord Ram and his three brothers at Kanak Bhawan are a delight to sore eyes.

Valmiki Ramayan Bhawan; this place is famous for the Valmiki Ramayana which has been engraved beautifully on marble here. When a devotee’s wish is fulfilled, he comes here to submit text copies filled with ‘सीता राम’ written several thousand times, at the Ram Naam Bank.

Sita ki Rasoi; is believed to be an ancient kitchen used by goddess Sita herself. Built quite close to the Ram Janmabhoomi, this sacred site is now a temple housing some exhibit vessels. One among the two kitchens revered in Sita's name, this Sita Ki Rasoi is a basement kitchen.

Late morning drive to Varanasi en-route visiting Prayagraj; Triveni Sangam is a point where three rivers of religious importance- Ganga, Yamuna and the Saraswati meet. People can easily differentiate between the rivers as they maintain their original colours and this convergence point is considered as an auspicious junction as according to the Hindus, a bath here will help them wash away their sins and free them from the cycle of rebirth. This place is also super crowded during the religious festival- Kumbh Mela.

Also visit the Anand Bhawan: The historical home of the Nehru Family Allahabad has always had that political touch dating back to independence struggle era. In the centre of the city, the home of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru is situated. The beautiful two-storied house is preserved and kept as it is. The house is also the same place where leaders like Motilal Nehru, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi as well as Mahatma Gandhi once stayed.

Later continue drive to Varanasi, on arrival transfer to hotel. Varanasi, picturesquely situated on the banks of holy river Ganga. The city is the Oldest Living City of the World & traces of its existence are found around 10000 BC. Other than being a very holy city for Hindus, it also holds a very significant association with Buddha's life & Buddhism.

Rest of the time free for shopping of Banarasi Silk Sarees have been an integral part of every North Indian bride’s trousseau since time immemorial. Varanasi, being one of the oldest places in the world.

Overnight Hotel – Varanasi (B)

Day 07Varanasi

Approx. 5:30- 0600 AM Start your DAY with a private boat ride on the river Ganges.Rise before dawn & step gingerly in the boat as the boatman starts rowing the boat. Witness the daily miracle to unfold, as the Sun appears triumphantly over the horizon. The sound of conches & temple bells adds to the delicate pink fabric of dawn. The formerly hushed murmuring of ancient Sanskrit Shlokas (hymns) now rises, in one voice, to a crescendo of unparalleled piety & joy.

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest among the sacred riverfronts, alongside the river Ganga. It is believed that a dead human's soul finds salvation, when cremated here.

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor project in Varanasi is aimed at transforming pilgrims' experience of the temple town.

Followed by Kashi Vishwanath (Darshan), the patron deity of Varanasi. The gold-covered temple where the deity resides is closed to non-Hindus, but the streets surrounding it are a fascinating mix of commerce and faith.

Narrow lane Heritage walk tour of Varanasi, showcasing the best of the ancient city of Varanasi in true local style. Varanasi is one of the most colorful places on earth dotted with numerous temples and spirituality is at its core. Hence, Varanasi is rightly referred to as the “holy city of India. On this 3 + -hour tour, you’ll be exploring the heritage lanes of Varanasi city on foot. Explore the many narrow lanes of the city and get introduced to the city’s prominent highlights like the Manikarnika Ghat, the cremation site. During heritage walk includes life and bazar around Golden temple as well.

Also visit the Kaal Bhairav Mandir is one of the oldest Shiva temples in Varanasi, India. Situated in Bharonath, Vishweshwarganj, this temple has great historical and cultural importance in Hinduism; especially amongst the locals.

Later drop at hotel for the breakfast, late morning proceeds to visit Banaras Hindu University is an internationally reputed temple of learning, situated in the holy city of Varanasi. This creative and innovative university was founded by the great nationalist leader, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, in 1916, through close cooperation with great personalities like Dr Annie Besant, who viewed it as the University of India. Banaras Hindu University was established by the Parliamentary legislation.

Followed by visit to the new Vishwanath temple of Varanasi is located in the premises of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). It is also called the Birla temple as the famous industrialist family of India, the Birlas, constructed it. The New Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to lord Shiva and is a replica of the original Vishwanath temple. The temple is built in white marble, and was planned by Madan Mohan Malviya, the founder of the Banaras Hindu University.

Also visit the SANKATMOCHAN TEMPLE, DURGA TEMPLE, BHARAT MATA TEMPLE, CHAURA MATA MANDIR.

Walk through the weaver’s district of Varanasi and learn about the life of the weavers and the process of hand weaving of the famous silk brocades and Banarasi sari. The handloom weaving traditions have found mention in Vedic and Buddhist literature. The transition from cotton to silk occurred around the 14th century, with Persian inspired motifs, such as the paisley, jhallar and the namavali becoming staples in the weaves. Banaras has become renowned as a specialist silk weaving centre, using gold and silver threads to create its unique warp and weft. One of the most sought-after luxuries, its lush saris have been desired by several generations.

After noon proceed to visit Sarnath; the site of the deer park where Gautama Buddha is said to have given his first sermon about the basic principles of Buddhism. It has been a premier centre for Buddhism & has a rich collection of ancient Buddhist relics & antiques comprising numerous Buddha & Bodhisattva images on display at the Archaeological Museum.

Evening Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat. (Not to Miss activities, highly recommended)
Evening aarti ceremony – one of the most popular and important rituals of the Hindu faith. Hear temple bells ring out as pilgrims chant and pray before a row of young Brahman priests who wave flaming oil lamps in worship of the Ganges. Watching this scene from the river is unforgettable!

Overnight Hotel – Varanasi (B)

Day 08Varanasi – Delhi (Indigo 6E-6362 @ 1305 / 1440 Hrs) Departure

Transfer you to airport to board the flight to Delhi, and taking back an Exceptional Travel Experience of INDIA.

Tour Concludes : Exceptional Escapes Manager will assist you with your transfer to the airport for boarding onward flight.