A 10-day itinerary for the Golden Triangle with Sarnath and Bodhgaya would encompass some of the most culturally rich and historically significant places in India. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Delhi
- Arrive in Delhi
- Visit India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar
- Explore the markets of Connaught Place
- Overnight in Delhi
Day 2: Delhi
- Visit Jama Masjid and Red Fort
- Explore Chandni Chowk
- Visit Raj Ghat and Gandhi Smriti
- Optional: Visit Lotus Temple or Akshardham Temple
- Overnight in Delhi
Day 3: Agra
- Drive to Agra (Approx. 4-5 hours by road)
- Visit Agra Fort
- Explore Mehtab Bagh for a view of the Taj Mahal at sunset
- Overnight in Agra
Day 4: Agra
- Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise
- Optional: Visit Fatehpur Sikri (en route to Jaipur)
- Drive to Jaipur (Approx. 4-5 hours by road)
- Overnight in Jaipur
Day 5: Jaipur
- Visit Amber Fort
- Explore City Palace and Jantar Mantar
- Visit Hawa Mahal
- Stroll through the local markets
- Overnight in Jaipur
Day 6: Jaipur
- Optional: Visit Jal Mahal (if not covered on Day 5)
- Explore Jaigarh Fort and Nahargarh Fort
- Visit Albert Hall Museum
- Overnight in Jaipur
Day 7: Sarnath
- Fly from Jaipur to Varanasi
- Visit Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon
- Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and other important sites in Sarnath
- Overnight in Varanasi
Day 8: Varanasi
- Early morning boat ride on the Ganges to witness the sunrise and morning rituals
- Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and other important ghats
- Explore the narrow lanes and markets of Varanasi
- Overnight in Varanasi
Day 9: Bodhgaya
- Drive from Varanasi to Bodhgaya (Approx. 6-7 hours by road)
- Visit Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhi Tree, and other important sites associated with Buddha’s enlightenment
- Overnight in Bodhgaya
Day 10: Bodhgaya
- Explore more of Bodhgaya, visiting places like Great Buddha Statue, Sujata Temple, and other local attractions
- Depart from Gaya Airport (nearest airport to Bodhgaya) or continue with your onward journey.
Please note that travel times and distances are approximate and can vary based on traffic and road conditions. It’s advisable to check for any updates or changes in schedules before finalizing your itinerary. Also, consider that this is a fast-paced itinerary, so you might want to adjust it to your preferences and pace.
