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Sacred Routes: The Divine Temples and Monasteries of India

0/5
Duration

11 Nights / 12 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Embark on an enriching journey through “Sacred Routes: The Divine Temples and Monasteries of India,” a tour that unveils the spiritual and architectural marvels of North and Central India. Begin in Delhi with iconic sites like the Red Fort and the Lotus Temple, then venture to Indore to explore the revered Omkareshwar Temple. Experience the grandeur of Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar Temple and the serene beauty of Bhopal’s Bhoj Wetland and historical mosques. In Khajuraho, marvel at the exquisite erotic carvings of the UNESCO-listed temples before delving into the sacred confluences of Prayagraj and Varanasi. Conclude your journey in Bodhgaya and Deoghar, discovering the profound significance of Buddhist and Hindu sacred sites. This tour offers a deep connection to India’s rich spiritual heritage and architectural splendor.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 46.5%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 48.0%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 55.8%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 57.3%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 60.4%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 60.8%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 64.9%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

On arrival at Delhi airport, assistance and transfer to the hotel. Later, visit the majestic Red Fort, a Mughal fortress with imposing red sandstone walls. Built in the 17th century, it served as the residence of the Mughal emperor until 1857 and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continue to Jama Masjid, one of the world’s largest mosques, built by Shah Jahan. The mosque features a vast courtyard that can accommodate thousands of worshippers and showcases stunning Mughal architecture with intricate details. Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk, navigating through a bustling market area brimming with spices, jewelry, and vibrant saris. This lively area offers a glimpse into traditional Indian markets and street life. Explore Khari Baoli Spice Market, a historic market renowned for its aromatic spices, essential oils, and traditional sweets. This market is a sensory delight and a key trading hub for spices in Delhi. Visit Raj Gath, the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, marking the spot where he was cremated after his assassination. The memorial features a simple, serene design with an eternal flame and is a place of reflection and respect. In New Delhi, see Humayun Tomb, the first garden-tomb in India and an early example of Mughal architecture. Commissioned by Humayun's first wife, Empress Bega Begum, it is renowned for its stunning Mughal gardens and elaborate design. Drive past Qutab Minar, a 73-meter tall minaret part of the Qutb complex. Built in the 12th century, it is a fine example of Afghan architecture and is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. Admire the Lotus Temple, a Bahai House of Worship notable for its lotus-shaped design and serene ambiance. The temple is known for its unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere, offering a space for meditation and reflection. Pass by President House, Parliament House, and India Gate, iconic landmarks of New Delhi. These sites represent India's political and historical heritage and are central to the nation's identity.

Day 2: Delhi - Indore

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for a flight to Indore. Upon arrival in Indore, visit Omkareshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on an island in the Narmada River, the temple is renowned for its grand prayer hall supported by 60 pillars, showcasing intricate carvings and divine architecture. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site and holds great spiritual importance. Experience taking a dip in the Narmada River, which is considered auspicious before entering the temple. The ritual of bathing in the river is believed to purify the soul and prepare devotees for worship, enhancing their spiritual experience. Return to Indore, check in at the hotel, and spend the evening at leisure, allowing time to relax and unwind after the day’s journey.

Day 3: Indore - Bhopal (250kms)

After breakfast, drive to Bhopal. En route, visit Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain. This revered Jyotirlinga site dedicated to Lord Shiva is known for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and features a sacred tank called Koti Tirtha, which is used for ritual bathing and is believed to have immense spiritual value. Explore Kal Bhairav Temple, dedicated to the fierce form of Lord Shiva, Kal Bhairav. Known for its unique rituals and offerings, this temple is an important pilgrimage site for devotees seeking blessings from the deity. Visit Harsiddhi Temple, one of the Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Harsiddhi. The temple is renowned for its ancient architecture and spiritual significance, with a history that dates back to the 9th century. Experience Ram Ghat, a prominent ghat on the banks of the Shipra River, known for its religious significance and the evening aarti ceremonies. It is a serene spot where devotees gather for rituals and prayers. Explore the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. It features a collection of large instruments used for astronomical observations and is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its architectural and scientific value. Continue your drive to Bhopal. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and spend the evening at leisure, providing an opportunity to relax and prepare for the following day’s explorations.

Day 4: Bhopal

After breakfast, visit Bhoj Wetland, a Ramsar site with two lakes, Upper and Lower Lake. The wetland is home to diverse flora and fauna, including 179 bird species, and provides a vibrant ecosystem for various wildlife. Proceed to Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, an archaeological site with ancient cave paintings dating back to the Paleolithic age. The shelters are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer insight into early human history through their prehistoric art. Visit Bhojpur Temple, an incomplete 11th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple, abandoned during construction, features a grand architectural plan and a 7.5 feet high lingam, showcasing regional temple architecture. In Bhopal, explore Jama Masjid, a classic Islamic mosque with tall minarets and intricate designs. The mosque exemplifies Islamic architectural beauty and historical relevance. Visit Moti Masjid, an architectural marvel featuring elegant designs and historical value. Built in the 19th century, it is known for its serene ambiance and striking appearance. See Taj-Ul-Masjid, a grand mosque with massive domes and minarets, renowned for its stunning Islamic architecture and large prayer hall. Visit Bharat Bhawan, a cultural center for performing arts with a unique architectural design. The center houses impactful exhibitions and performances that celebrate Indian art and culture.

Day 5: Bhopal - Khajuraho (376kms)

After breakfast, drive to Khajuraho, en route visiting Sanchi Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stupas, monasteries, and pillars dating from the 3rd BCE to 12th CE. The site reflects Buddhist art and architecture, with the Sanchi Stupa housing relics of Buddha and his followers. Continue to Udayagiri Caves, early Hindu ritual sites with extensive carvings from the Gupta Empire. The caves feature rock-shelters, petroglyphs, and inscriptions, showcasing religious and historical significance. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage temples of Khajuraho, known for their intricate erotic and sensuous carvings. Built between 950 to 1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty, these temples are celebrated for their artistic and architectural excellence.

Day 6: Khajuraho - Prayagraj (300kms)

After breakfast, explore the Khajuraho temples, focusing on the Eastern, Western, and Southern groups. These temples, built between 950 to 1050 AD, are renowned for their intricate erotic carvings and are considered masterpieces of Chandela dynasty artistry. The temples reflect a blend of spiritual and sensual themes in their detailed sculptures and architectural design. Western Group Temples: Includes the famous Kandariya Mahadev Temple, known for its towering spire and elaborate carvings depicting various deities and celestial beings. Eastern Group Temples: Features temples such as the Parsvanath Temple, which is the largest and most well-preserved among the Eastern group, showcasing detailed Jain art and architecture. Southern Group Temples: Includes the Duladeo Temple and Chaturbhuj Temple, known for their unique architectural features and historical significance. Drive to Prayagraj and check in at the hotel. Spend the evening at leisure, preparing for the next day's exploration.

Day 7: Prayagraj - Varanasi (120kms)

After breakfast, visit Anand Bhawan, the ancestral home of Jawaharlal Nehru, which has been transformed into a museum. The museum displays memorabilia related to the Nehru family and provides insights into India's independence movement and Nehru's role in shaping modern India. Explore Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. This site is considered one of the holiest in Hinduism, and it hosts major religious events like the Ardh-Kumbh and Kumbh Mela, drawing thousands of pilgrims annually. Visit Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar in 1583. This historical fort features massive walls, three gateways, and high towers. It was strategically significant and served as a key military garrison during the Mughal era. Drive to Varanasi and check in at the hotel. Experience Ganga Aarti, the evening ritual on the banks of the Ganges. This mesmerizing ceremony involves huge brass lamps lit with oil, accompanied by the chanting of sacred mantras, creating a divine atmosphere illuminated by the lamps and the glow of the evening sky.

Day 8: Varanasi

Enjoy an early morning boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing devotees bathing and praying in the sacred waters. The ghats, or riverfront steps, are integral to the city's spiritual life and offer a glimpse into daily religious practices. Visit Banaras Hindu University, a vast campus with 30,000 students. It is the largest residential university in India and is known for its significant academic and cultural contributions. Explore Bharat Mata Temple, which houses a relief map of undivided India carved out of marble. The temple is dedicated to the motherland and represents India's geographical and historical unity. Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir, famous for its verses from the Ramcharitmanas, depicting scenes from the Ramayana. The temple features beautiful imagery of Lord Rama, Mother Sita, Lakshman, and Lord Hanuman. Visit Sarnath, the site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site features significant Buddhist monuments and is a major pilgrimage destination for Buddhists.

Day 9: Varanasi - Bodhgaya (250kms)

After breakfast, drive to Bodhgaya, check in at the hotel, and later visit Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple, 54 meters tall, houses a large golden Buddha and is surrounded by the sacred Bodhi Tree where Buddha attained enlightenment. Explore the Great Buddha Statue and several international Buddhist temples and monasteries in Bodhgaya, including Tibetan, Burmese, Chinese, Bhutanese, and Thai temples. Visit Gaya, known for Vishnupad Mandir, a riverside temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Explore Mangla Gauri Temple, set on a hilltop, and Brahma Kund pond, a significant site for Hindu rituals and ceremonies.

Day 10: Bodhgaya - Deoghar (235kms)

After breakfast, drive to Deoghar, check in at the hotel, and visit Baidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple, a sacred complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple features 21 other significant temples and is an important pilgrimage site. Explore Baidyanath Jayadurga Shakti Peeth, a pilgrimage site where the heart of Mata Sati is believed to have fallen. The site holds immense devotional significance. Visit Naulakha Temple, a 146 ft high temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna. Known for its impressive architecture, the temple is a prominent spiritual site in the region.

Day 11: Deoghar - Patna (265kms)/ Delhi (flight)

After breakfast, drive to Patna, en route visiting Rajgir, a spiritual town with natural serenity. Explore its religious ruins, caves, and Buddhist and Jain shrines, including Vulture’s Peak and Sattapanni Cave. Visit Nalanda, an ancient Mahavihara and renowned center of learning established in the 5th century CE. The ancient university was a prominent scholarly hub, attracting students from across Asia. Arrive in Patna, check in at the hotel, and prepare for a flight to Delhi if required.

Day 12: Delhi - Departure

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance on arrival at airport.
  • 11 Nights' accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plan.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Delhi - Indore & Patna - Delhi flight fare approx INR 10,500 per person in economy class.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 11 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Delhi x 2 nights: The Hans/ The Royal Plaza
Indore x 1 night: Lemon Tree Hotel/ Effotel by Sayaji Indore
Bhopal x 2 nights: Noor Us Sabha Palace/ Sayaji Bhopal
Khajuraho x 2 nights: Ramada/SYNA Heritage Hotel
Prayagraj x 1 night: WelcomHeritage Badi Kothi/ Hotel Kanha Shyam
Varanasi x 2 nights: Rivatas by Ideal/ The Amayaa
Deoghar x 1 night: Hotel Imperial Heights/GenX Rameshwaram By 1589/ Amrapali Clarks Inn

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