Day 1: Delhi - Agra
Take an early morning train or car from Delhi to Agra. The train journey takes about 2–3 hours, while the car ride takes about 4–5 hours, depending on traffic. Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel and freshen up. In the afternoon, visit the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This massive 16th-century fort was the main residence of the Mughal emperors for almost a century. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk around Agra's bustling Sadar Bazaar, a great place to pick up souvenirs and sample local street food. Back to the hotel for an overnight stay at the Agra hotel.
Day 2: Agra - Varanasi
Wake up early to catch the sunrise view of the Taj Mahal, the highlight of your trip. This white marble mausoleum is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. After spending a couple of hours at the Taj Mahal, return to your hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon, visit other interesting sites in Agra, such as Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb (often referred to as the "Baby Taj") and Mehtab Bagh, a Mughal garden offering stunning views of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River. In the evening, take an overnight train from Agra to Varanasi. Back to the hotel for an overnight stay at the Varanasi hotel.
Day 3: Varanasi
Early morning arrival in Varanasi. Check into your hotel and freshen up. As Varanasi is a holy city for Hindus, spend the morning exploring its many temples and ghats (bathing steps) along the Ganges River. You can also take a boat ride on the Ganges to witness the sunrise and the various rituals performed by pilgrims.
In the afternoon, visit Sarnath, a Buddhist holy site located about 10 kilometers from Varanasi. Sarnath is where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. In the evening, witness the aarti ceremony, a beautiful Hindu ritual of worship involving fire and offerings made to the Ganges River. In the night, explore the narrow alleys of Varanasi and indulge in some local street food (if you're comfortable). Back to the hotel for an overnight stay at the Varanasi hotel.