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Temple Tour of Khajuraho
Day 1 : New Delhi
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Khajuraho, the capital
of the Chandela kings. The city's many temples were built in the
short span of hundred years, from 950-1050 AD. Most were destroyed
by Muslim invaders, and only 22 temples remain of the original 85.
Khajuraho's temples are covered with hundreds of sculptured figures--a
galaxy of gods and goddesses, beasts and serpents, and a multitude
of erotic couples. After your transfer to the hotel to settle in,
visit the eastern group of temples. This evening, enjoy a performance
of "Dances of India" at the Main Temple.
Day 2 : New Delhi
This morning, visit the western group, which are the main temples.
This afternoon, fly to Varanasi, where you enjoy a demonstration
of Ganga Aarti.
Day 3 : Varanasi
Rise very early this morning for a boat ride on River Ganges, as
the best time to see the Ghats is early dawn. Human forms descend
the steps in the morning mist, their numbers increasing until a
solemn, silent multitude moves to immerse itself in the holy stream.
See the Bathing Ghats, Cremation Ghats, and the Gyanvapi Mosque
built in the 17th century. Afterward, visit the Golden Temple and
walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi, returning to the hotel
breakfast. Later, take a sightseeing tour of Varanasi and its temples,
including the Bharat Mata Temple, Emperor Aurangazeb's Mosque, and
the Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple). Visit Varanasi Hindu University,
a great seat of Oriental learning. Explore the Durga (Goddess of
Power) Temple, popularly known as the Monkey Temple because of hundreds
of monkeys in the courtyard. Enjoy a High Tea and a demonstration
of mehndi application (henna), typically a part of wedding preparations.
Group members can get their own little "tattoos" if they
wish. A phoolwalla, resplendent in dhoti/kurta and Gandhi cap, will
show you how flower garlands are strung and you will receive your
own to garland and a gajra (jasmine flower garland for the wrist)
to wear.
Day 4 : Varanasi- Delhi
After breakfast, visit Saranath, where the Buddha preached his first
sermon to five disciples at Deer Park. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, the
location of a once-resplendent monastery. A large complex of ruined
monasteries, some dating from the 3rd century BC, cover the area
and a new Buddhist monastery stands nearby. Sarnath also has an
interesting archaeological museum, which has preserved the famous
Sarnath Pillar, whose capital forms India's national emblem. Later,
fly to Delhi
Day 5 : Khajuraho
After breakfast this morning, head to the International Airport
for your return flights.
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