VARANASI - It is believed that those who die in Varanasi will be released from the cycle of rebirth. Pious Hindus still come to Varanasi the oldest city in India to spend their last days, living in spartan communes run by a multitude of religious trusts. The focus is the sacred River Ganga (Ganges) where people come to wash away their sins by bathing, the dead are cremated and holy men meditate. In the narrow by lanes are crowded bazaars selling brassware and silk brocades. After attaining enlightenment at Bodhgaya the Buddha went to SARNATH - one of the most holy sites; and it was here that he preached his first discourse in the deer park to set in motion the 'Wheel of the Dharma'. In the temple architecture of India, the KHAJURAHO (also famous as erotica's of Khajuraho) complex remains unique. magnificent richly carved temples, came up near the village of Khajuraho from 950 AD - 1050 AD- an inspired burst of creativity and are a collective paean to life, to joy and to creativity; to the ultimate fusion of man with his creator; the temples represent the expression of a highly matured civilization.

Suggested Sketch program

Day 01 Arrive Varanasi. + PM Sarnath excursion. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 02 Early morning boat ride followed by temple tour. Afternoon flight to Khajuraho. On arrival transfer to hotel.

Day 03 AM visit temples of Khajuraho. PM transfer to airport for flight to Agra. On arrival transfer to hotel.

Day 04 AM visit Taj Mahal at sun-rise followed by Agra fort. Later drive to Delhi via Fatehpur Sikri.

Day 05 AM tour of Delhi. Check out 12 noon. Transfer to airport or railway station for onward destination.

MORE Extensions to this program: to Rajasthan; you can visit forts and palace, do camel safari or horse safari or stay at Forts & Palace