Central India – 13 Nights- 14 Days

Your tour begins in Varnasi (Utter Pradesh), which is one of the holiest places in the Hindu tradition, known for its rich history and heritage. You’ll be greeted by representatives of Resplendent Travel and transported to your accommodation.

Time permitting, you will spend part of your first day sightseeing in the city.

This ancient city on the Holy Ganges is India’s oldest continuously inhabited city and the most important pilgrimage center in the Hindu tradition.

Must-do activities in Varanasi on day 2: Evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunset (performed as an homage to holy Ganga), visits to ancient Ghats of Ganga (embankments), visit to the holy Buddhist site – Sarnath, spiritual lessons from the enlightened soul, and sunrise boat rides on the river Ganges.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site Khajuraho dates back to the Chandela Dynasty (950-1050 AD) and is one of India’s greatest heritage sites visited by millions of tourists, devotees, artists, creators, and archeologists. (1.5 hours flight)

It comprises 23 stunning temples of Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist origin that are famed for erotic graphic sexual imagery and ornate stone carvings.

Other attractions in Khajuraho: Pottery workshops, Jeep Safaris to Raneh Falls, and visits to Gharial (fish-easting crocodiles) Sanctuary.

From Aurangabad, you’ll fly to Vadodara (Baroda) (1.5 hour flight), known for its fine silk, traditional Ghagra garments and rich history.

Sightseeing in Vadodara: Laxmi Vilas Palace, Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, Mandvi Gate, ISKCON Temple, Kirti Mandir, and many other historical and cultural attractions.

The small town of Orchha (2.5 hours drive) dates back to 1501 AD to the Rajput Kingdom of Rudra Pratap Singh.

During your brief day-long stopover, you will enjoy the famous attractions of Orchha. These include the Orchha Fort, Jahangir Mahal, Shri Ram Raja Mandir, Chaturbhuj Temple, and Raja Mahal.

Gwalior (2 hours drive) is famous for its iconic Gwalior Fort and for its heritage as an important city during the Rajput, Mughal and Maratha era.

Attractions you check out: Gwalior Fort, Sun Temple, Gujari Mahal, Teli ka Mandir, and Jai Vilas Palace.

The city of Shivpuri (2 hours) is famed for the glorious heritage of the Rajput Scindia Dynasty that thrived in the 18th century.

The city is famous for its forest, Madhav National Park, and waterfalls.

On the 10th day, you’ll stop at the site of the legendary Kumbh Mela which takes place every 12 years in the city of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh (6 hours drive).

Attractions: Ram Ghat, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Tower Chowk.

Your next stop, Mandu (3 hours drive) was once a great centre of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire. It brims with historical landmarks, palaces, and old forts.

Attractions: Jahaz Mahal, Roopmati Pavilion, Hoshang Shah’s Tomb, Rani Rupmati Palace, Baz Bahadur Palace and Darya Khan’s Tomb.

Indore is the largest city in Madhya Pradesh and its cultural and economic heart. (2 hours drive)

Attractions: Rajwada Palace, Khajrana Ganesh Mandir, Annapurna Temple, and Lal Bagh Palace.

The capital city of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal (4 hour’s drive) is known as the “City of Lakes.”

Tourist Attractions you’ll cover during your stay: Upper Lake (Bhopal), Van Vihar National Park, Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Sanchi, Shaurya Smarak, Taj-ul-Masjid, Lower Bhopal Lake.