Kolkata to Amritsar (EXRBA)

Duration: 15 days (may vary)
Areas: India
Tour types: History & Culture, Rail Journeys

Description

Kolkata to Varanasi
More familiarly known as Calcutta, India's intellectual capital boasts a lively cultural scene and is rich in colonial architecture. As well as visiting historical sites we take time to wander in the flower market and enjoy fine views of the Ganges, known locally as the Hooghly River. We join the flow of Buddhist pilgrims travelling to Bodh Gaya, where the Buddha attained enlightenment. Continuing along the pilgrims' trail, our journey takes us to Varanasi and the awe-inspiring sight of Hindu devotees purifying themselves in the sacred waters of the Ganges.

Taj Mahal & Toy Trains
In Agra we spend time at the magnificent Taj Mahal and explore the preserved 'ghost city' of Fatehpur Sikri. From the thriving metropolis of Delhi we journey up into the mighty Himalaya, aboard a relic of the Raj, the narrow gauge 'Toy' train to the hill station of Shimla. Here, at the former British summer capital, we take in the fresh air and magnificent views. There are opportunities for walks in the area or to wander in the warren-like bazaar.

Golden Temple & Wagah
Descending from the mountains we travel to the Punjab and the city of Amritsar, which owes its existence to the renowned Golden temple - the holiest of Sikh shrines. To spend time in its marbled courtyards and shrines is a unique experience. From here it's just a short distance to the Pakistan border at Wagah where we watch the colourful (and noisy!) changing of the guard.

Tour itinerary

Day 2

Sight-seeing tour to include colonial architecture, flower market and temples.

Day 3

Train to Gaya; drive Bodhgaya.

Day 4

Visit Mahabodi Temple; PM train to Varanasi.

Day 5

Visit Sarnath; sunset boat trip on Ganges.

Day 6

Optional sunrise boat trip; overnight train to Agra.

Day 7

In Agra; visit Fort.

Day 8

In Agra; visit Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri.

Day 9

Train to Delhi; tour of New Delhi.

Day 10

Old Delhi by metro and rickshaw; PM free.

Day 11

Train to Kalka; toy train to Shimla.

Day 12

In Shimla; orientation walk.

Day 13

Bus to Ambala; train to Amritsar.

Day 14

Visit Golden temple; trip to Pakistan border.

Day 15

End Amritsar.