December '26 India

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Overview

December '26 India
New Delhi, Delhi, India
Dec 2 - 12, 2026
Your Next Adventure Travel image
Your Next Adventure Travel
$2,500

About this trip

Experience two of the world's most fascinating destinations on one unforgettable journey. From the vibrant streets of Delhi and the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal to the sacred banks of the Ganges in Varanasi and the wildlife of Ranthambore National Park, this adventure showcases the incredible diversity of India before continuing into the Himalayan kingdom of Nepal. Along the way, you'll discover ancient temples, colorful markets, breathtaking architecture, rich traditions, and some of the friendliest people on earth—all while traveling with a small group of like-minded adventurers and knowledgeable local guides.

This isn't just a sightseeing tour—it's an immersive experience designed to connect you with the heart and soul of South Asia. Watch the sunrise over the Taj Mahal, search for Bengal tigers on safari, witness the unforgettable evening Ganga Aarti ceremony in Varanasi, and stand beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas as you explore the temples and vibrant culture of Kathmandu. Every day offers a new adventure, blending iconic bucket-list experiences with authentic cultural encounters that will leave you with memories—and stories—that last a lifetime.


What's included

Accommodations

English Speaking Guide

Food Tours

Cultural Tours

Including temples, shrines, markets, monuments and more in Delhi, Agra, and Varanasi.

Safaris

Three game drives in Ranthambore

Transportation

All ground and air transportation throughout. Includes first class train fares between all destinations plus airfare from Varanasi to Delhi

Pre Trip Assistance

Help with travel visa application, currency exchange, airfare from US, trave insurance selection and more

What's not included

Tips and Gratuities

Fees related to passport

Food and Drink

Some but not all are included within tours

Travel Insurance

Airfare

Optional Tours

Day 1

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Welcome to Delhi

Arrive in Delhi in the evening or early morning, where you'll be met and transferred to your hotel in the heart of Connaught Place, one of the city's most vibrant and historic districts. After checking in, take some time to unwind from your journey or stretch your legs with a short evening stroll around the illuminated colonial-era circle, filled with cafés, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy your first taste of India with dinner at a local restaurant before settling in for the night and preparing for the adventures ahead.

Accommodations: Hotel Bright

Day 2

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Connaught Circle and Chandni Chowk

Your first morning in India will begin with breakfast at the hotel before exploring the local area. In and around Connaught Circle, we'll visit Janpath Street Market, a temple honoring Lord Hanuman, a working aqueduct structure built in the 10th century, Jantar Mantar astronomical park built in the 1700s, Central Park and more.

Our evening will be spent on a food tour taking us deep into the markets of Old Delhi. Along with having the opportunity to try multiple traditional dishes, we will visit the spice market locally known as the coughing market, see some amazing sites, enjoy as rickshaw ride through the busy streets, and learn some history of the city.

Accommodations: Hotel Bright

Day 3

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New Delhi Highlights & First-Class Train to Ranthambore

After breakfast, discover the highlights of New Delhi, a city where grand imperial architecture blends with vibrant modern life. Visit iconic landmarks such as India Gate, Humayun's Tomb, and Qutub Minar, while driving past the stately government buildings along Rajpath and the Presidential Palace. Along the way, your guide will share the fascinating stories behind India's rich history and diverse culture.

the tour, transfer to the railway station to board a first-class, air-conditioned train to Ranthambore National Park. Sit back and enjoy the changing scenery as bustling cities give way to rural villages and the landscapes of Rajasthan. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your wildlife lodge, where you can relax and prepare for the exciting safari adventures awaiting you over the next two days.

Accommodations: The Earth at Ranthambore

Day 4

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Ranthambore Tiger Safari

Two amazing game drives in Ranthambore National Park where we look for tigers, rhinos, elephants, crocodiles and all the park has to offer.

Accommodations: The Earth at Ranthambore

Day 5

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Morning Safari & First-Class Train to Agra

Rise early for one final game drive through Ranthambore National Park, when wildlife is at its most active. Keep your camera ready as you search for the park's famous Bengal tigers, along with leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, deer, monkeys, and hundreds of species of birds. Every safari is unique, making each journey into the park an exciting adventure.

After returning to the lodge for breakfast and check-out, transfer to the railway station to board a first-class, air-conditioned train to Agra. Relax and enjoy the scenic ride across northern India before arriving in the city that is home to one of the world's most iconic monuments. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight in Agra.

Accommodations: Hotel Atulyaa Taj

Day 6

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Sunrise at the Taj Mahal & Agra Fort

Begin the day with an unforgettable sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, when the soft morning light bathes the white marble in changing shades of pink, gold, and ivory. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his beloved wife, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world's greatest architectural masterpieces and an experience you'll never forget.

After breakfast, continue to the impressive Agra Fort, a massive red sandstone fortress that served as the seat of the Mughal Empire for generations. Explore its grand palaces, audience halls, and beautiful courtyards while learning about the emperors who once ruled from within its walls.

The remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You may choose to explore Agra's markets and cafés, relax at your hotel, or visit Mehtab Bagh across the Yamuna River for a spectacular sunset view of the Taj Mahal—one of the city's most peaceful and photogenic vantage points.

Accommodations: Hotel Atulyaa Taj

Day 7

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Vande Bharat Express to Varanasi & Evening Ganga Aarti

After breakfast, board the first-class Vande Bharat Express for the approximately seven-hour journey to Varanasi, India's holiest city. Relax in your comfortable, air-conditioned seat as you travel through the heart of northern India, watching the countryside, villages, and daily life unfold outside your window.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel before heading to the banks of the Ganges River for the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. As the sun sets, priests perform an elaborate ritual of fire, chanting, bells, and incense, offering prayers to the sacred river. Witnessing this centuries-old tradition alongside thousands of pilgrims and worshippers is one of India's most unforgettable cultural experiences.

Accommodations: Sri Omkar Palace

Day 8

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Varanasi and Sarnath Tour

Experience the spiritual heart of India with a full day exploring Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Begin with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River, watching pilgrims gather along the ghats for morning prayers, rituals, and daily life. Wander the city's narrow alleyways, visit sacred temples, bustling markets, and historic ghats, and gain a deeper understanding of the traditions that have made Varanasi one of Hinduism's holiest destinations for thousands of years.

Later, travel to nearby Sarnath, one of Buddhism's most important pilgrimage sites. It was here that the Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, setting the Wheel of Dharma in motion. Explore the impressive Dhamek Stupa, ancient monastery ruins, and the archaeological museum while learning about the origins and spread of Buddhism.

Return to Varanasi in the evening with time to relax or continue exploring the city's vibrant atmosphere at your own pace.

Accommodations: Sri Omkar Palace

Day 9

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Free Day in Varanasi

Today is yours to experience Varanasi at your own pace. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or a deeper cultural connection, there are plenty of optional experiences to choose from.

Start your morning with a peaceful sunrise yoga session overlooking the Ganges, or cross the river to the quieter eastern bank for a unique camel ride through the sandy floodplains, offering a completely different perspective of the ancient city skyline. Other options include cooking classes, silk weaving demonstrations, wandering the city's colorful markets, enjoying rooftop cafés with river views, or simply watching life unfold along the ghats.

However you choose to spend the day, Varanasi offers countless opportunities to immerse yourself in one of the world's most fascinating and spiritually significant cities.

Accommodations: Sri Omkar Palace

Day 10

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Aghori Tour & Departure

This morning, enjoy a fascinating guided tour exploring the traditions and beliefs of the Aghori, one of India's most intriguing and least understood ascetic sects. Learn about their unique philosophy, spiritual practices, and the role they play in Varanasi's sacred landscape while separating myth from reality through the insights of a knowledgeable local guide.

After the tour, savor one last lunch in Varanasi before transferring to the airport for your onward journey. Depart India with unforgettable memories of vibrant cities, incredible wildlife, ancient monuments, and profound spiritual experiences that make this country unlike anywhere else in the world. Safe travels!

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1. New Delhi, Delhi, India

New Delhi, Delhi, India

About your organizer

Your Next Adventure Travel is a boutique Indianapolis based full service travel agency and tour operator. We specialize in small group, English speaking hosted tours across five continents.

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