Begin in Old Delhi, the 17th-century walled city built by Shah Jahan. Marvel at the towering Jama Masjid, then weave through the chaotic charm of Chandni Chowk on a cycle rickshaw. Visit the imposing Red Fort, a UNESCO site that narrates India’s royal past. Pay respects at Raj Ghat, Gandhi’s cremation site, then cross into New Delhi — a city of colonial elegance. Stroll through the wide boulevards of Lutyens’ Delhi, pausing at India Gate, President’s House, and the graceful Humayun’s Tomb. End the day with a visit to the soaring Qutub Minar.

Board a morning flight to Jaisalmer, the crown jewel of Rajasthan, often called the “Golden City” for its yellow sandstone glow. On arrival, check into a heritage haveli or desert-style hotel. Spend your afternoon at leisure or explore local markets filled with mirror-work textiles and camel leather goods.

Explore the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the few living forts in the world. Walk through narrow alleys where life unfolds as it did centuries ago. Visit the ornate Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of mansions filled with mirror-work and frescoes. Stop by the intricately carved Jain Temples within the fort walls. In the evening, drive to the Sam Sand Dunes for a camel safari and sunset over the golden desert — a surreal and timeless spectacle.

Journey across desert landscapes to Jodhpur, the regal gateway to Marwar. Upon arrival, check into your hotel — perhaps a converted palace or haveli. Enjoy a quiet evening absorbing the blue-washed walls of the old city from your rooftop or visit a local artisan studio.

Ascend to the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s most spectacular fortresses, perched on a cliff with sweeping views. Explore its palaces, courtyards, and museum filled with royal regalia. Descend to visit the tranquil white marble Jaswant Thada and stroll through the atmospheric Sardar Market near the Clock Tower, buzzing with spices, textiles, and antiques.

Drive through the Aravalli hills, stopping at the Ranakpur Jain Temples, famed for their 1,444 intricately carved marble pillars. Continue to Udaipur, the romantic “City of Lakes.” Check into a lakeside hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening by Lake Pichola.

Start with a visit to the majestic City Palace, a fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture overlooking the lake. Visit the Jagdish Temple, then relax in the serene gardens of Saheliyon Ki Bari. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, passing Jag Mandir and Lake Palace, with the Aravallis in the backdrop — pure magic at sunset.

Leave early for Chittorgarh, a city of Rajput heroism. Explore the vast Chittorgarh Fort, with its victory towers, palaces, temples, and the legendary Padmini Palace. Continue to Jaipur, the “Pink City,” and check in for the night.

Begin your day at the hilltop Amber Fort, ascending by elephant or jeep. Marvel at the mirror-studded Sheesh Mahal and royal courtyards. Return to the city to explore the Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and the opulent City Palace. Shop for gemstones, block prints, and blue pottery in the bustling bazaars.

Drive to Agra, pausing at Abhaneri, home to the ancient Chand Baori stepwell — an engineering marvel. Reach Agra by late afternoon and check into your hotel. Optionally, walk around the Mehtab Bagh for a twilight view of the Taj Mahal.

Wake early to witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise — a dream in white marble and a tribute to eternal love. After breakfast, visit the grand Agra Fort, where Shah Jahan was once imprisoned. If time allows, stop by the delicate Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah.

Depart for Khajuraho, stopping at Orchha, a medieval riverside town frozen in time. Explore its towering palaces and temple spires. Continue to Khajuraho, check in, and relax at your hotel.

Spend the day exploring the Western Group of Temples, where masterfully carved sculptures depict celestial beings, gods, and the human form in all its grace. Visit Kandariya Mahadev, Lakshmana, and Vishwanath Temples. In the evening, enjoy a Sound & Light Show that narrates the history of Khajuraho under starlit skies.

Fly to Varanasi, India’s spiritual capital and one of the world’s oldest living cities. Check in and unwind. As evening falls, witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a mesmerizing ritual of fire, chants, and devotion.

Take a dawn boat ride on the Ganges River, observing life and death on the ghats. Visit the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Bharat Mata Mandir. In the afternoon, journey to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon. Return for a serene evening on the riverbank.

After breakfast, drive to Ayodhya, steeped in mythological history as Lord Rama’s birthplace. Visit Ram Janmabhoomi, Hanuman Garhi, and other temples central to the Ramayana’s legacy.

Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Delhi. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure — ideal for last-minute shopping or a quiet dinner reflecting on your journey.

Your grand Indian odyssey concludes. Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to the airport with assistance for your international departure.