Mumbai with Varanasi Luxury Tour

Itinerary Details...

Day 1 : Arrive Mumbai
Upon arrival this evening in Mumbai, you will be welcomed by your The India Tourism representative and escorted to your hotel.

Day 2 : Mumbai
After breakfast this morning, embark on a walk through Mumbai's exciting art district, visiting the Prince of Wales Museum, the Bhau Daji Lad Museum and the old bazaars in Bhuleshwar. Accompany your expert guide to the ancient Banganga Temple Complex and the charming village of Khotachiwadi, where you have the opportunity to interact with families whose ancestors were among the first inhabitants of the city. This evening enjoy dinner at the acclaimed Khyber restaurant, which features tender kebabs, rich curries and lots of tandoori favorites roasted in the Khyber's famous red masala sauce.

Day 3 : Mumbai
This morning, set sail to visit the spectacular sixth century city of caves on Elephanta Island, which display an incredible collection of rock art dedicated to Shiva. In the afternoon, set off on a culinary walk to discover Mumbai's most notable eateries.

Day 4 : To Varanasi
After breakfast, fly to Varanasi. Hop on a traditional rickshaw and travel through the ancient streets to the ghats for a taste of life on the holy river. Visit Kachauri galli, a lane filled with a tempting bouquet of spices, where cooks sit beside huge pans of smoking oil balanced on earthen ovens. This evening enjoy "satvik" food of the gods (vegetarian) at The Gateway Ganges hotel.

Day 5 : To Kolkata
Rise early and embark on a cruise on the Ganges to witness pilgrims at their daily ablutions as the rising sun gilds the skies. After breakfast, visit Sarnath, the spot where Buddha gave his first sermon. Later, continue to the airport for your flight to Kolkata. After checking in to your hotel, freshen up and savor an authentic Bengali meal (try the thali) at the excellent Aaheli restaurant.

Day 6 : Kolkata
This morning, visit Kolkata's bustling flower markets, and then cruise down the Hooghly River to see the temples, ghats and markets that line the riverbank. This afternoon, visit the Marble Palace, a magnificent mansion that houses an eclectic collection of paintings, statuary and other art objects. End your exploration of the city at the South Park Cemetery, where many early British colonists are buried. This evening, dine on regional specialties at a local restaurant.

Day 7 : To Chennai
This morning take to the skies and fly to Chennai. In the afternoon, visit a local market for some fresh produce, and then learn about creating Indian delicacies from a local chef and have an insider's view of the restaurant's kitchen on an exclusive visit.

Day 8 : Chennai
Today proceed on a visit of Mahabalipuram, one of the seven ancient sacred cities of India. This spectacular temple city reflects the glorious traditions of South India. Enjoy a lunch of local delicacies.

Day 9 : Depart Chennai
Today you will be escorted to the airport for your onward flight.