North India uncovered

Today, enjoy a private guided tour of the capital, which highlights the great contrasts between Old and New Delhi. This includes the enormous Jama Masjid from which you can walk through the bazaars and narrow streets — a great way to absorb the sights and sounds of Old Delhi. You will also see the monumental buildings set along wide boulevards of Lutyens' New Delhi including India Gate and the President's residence.

Travel to Agra by road this morning which will take about three hours (or take the train if you prefer). On arrival, you will meet your local guide for a private tour of the impressive Red Fort and the tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, fondly known as the 'Baby Taj'. These sites share much history with the Taj Mahal, providing an ideal background before your visit tomorrow morning.

Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise this morning — the beautiful light and smaller crowds make the early start worth it. Your private guide will be able to explain the history of the site and show you some hidden sides to the Taj that you don't see in the postcards. After breakfast, continue to Gwalior by road. Your driver can recommend stops en route, passing many scenic villages and towns.

Explore the highlights of Gwalior this morning with your local, private guide and driver. Gwalior Fort is on a sandstone plateau above the city, with impressive views, making a good starting point. Your guide can show you some of the unique temples here — particularly the Jain and Hindu temples which are intricately carved. You'll then travel a further three hours south by road to Orchha. Visit the Ram Raja Temple this evening or relax at your hotel.

Explore Orchha today on a private tour with a local guide. The impressive Mughal-era temples and their fascinating history are the highlight, but you can also get an insight into rural India by visiting local homes and markets with your guide. This afternoon, continue four hours to Khajuraho with your private driver. Relax at your leisure on arrival.

Today is a full day with your guide to explore and appreciate all the UNESCO-protected temples at Khajuraho. Known for their erotic and intricate carving, there is lots to explore. The temples are a combination of Hindu and Jain and hold some of the most intricate carvings in India.

Today fly the short hop to Varanasi. The roads are in terrible condition in this region, hence our recommendation to take the 40-minute flight. This evening in the Holy City of Varanasi, enjoy a private boat ride along the river Ganges where you can witness the evening pooja (prayer) and aarti ceremony. Candles and offerings fill the river and people fill the ghats — it's a fascinating spectacle.

Enjoy another boat ride this morning to see the contrasts of life on the river. Along the banks you'll see pilgrims and locals washing, socializing and praying. You will most likely also see riverside cremations taking place. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore independently and get lost in the markets, small streets and endless temples.

Today, fly back to Delhi; your specialist will recommend the best option for you. On arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel which is close to the airport, ready for your journey home tomorrow.

Today you will be transferred to the airport in plenty of time to catch your onward flight.