North India Pilgrimage Tour

Day 1

Arrival in Delhi

Arrive at Delhi Airport/Railway Station, where an Optima Travels representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your pre-arranged hotel. After refreshing yourself, embark on a captivating sightseeing tour of Delhi.

Day 2

Delhi – Mathura

Enjoy a delightful breakfast before embarking on a journey from Delhi to Mathura. Mathura, revered as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, holds profound significance in Hindu scriptures. Its ancient temples like the Krishna Janmabhoomi and Dwarkadhish Temple attract devotees worldwide. The city's vibrant festivals, especially during Janmashtami, immerse visitors in spiritual fervor. Mathura's rich cultural heritage, depicted through its art, music, and folklore, captivates all who seek to delve into Hindu mythology and tradition. Upon arrival, explore the sacred birthplace of Lord Krishna, delving into the city's vibrant bazaars and visiting revered temples. Experience the spiritual essence of Mathura as you retire to your hotel for the night.

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Day 3

Mathura - Vrindavan - Gokul - Nandgaon - Mathura

After a nourishing breakfast, venture to the neighboring towns of Vrindavan, Gokul, and Nandgaon, each entwined with the life of Lord Krishna. Vrindavan, adorned with temples, is where Lord Krishna spent his youth, drawing devotees with its divine aura. Gokul, his childhood abode, echoes with tales of his playful exploits, while Nandgaon resonates with the love of his foster father, Nanda Maharaj. These sacred towns offer pilgrims a glimpse into Krishna's life and teachings, fostering spiritual growth. Attractions include the Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, revered for its enchanting deity, and the Govardhan Hill near Gokul, linked to Krishna's lifting of the mountain. Each place brims with devotion, captivating hearts and minds with timeless tales of love and transcendence. Having explored the places related to Shri Krishna, return to Mathura for an overnight stay.

Day 4

Mathura - Agra - Lucknow

Depart from Mathura after breakfast and head towards Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal . The Taj Mahal, an iconic symbol of love and architectural marvel, graces the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra. Built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, its exquisite white marble facade, intricate details, and symmetrical gardens attract millions of visitors annually, enrapturing hearts worldwide. After visiting Taj Mahal, continue your journey to Lucknow and check into your hotel upon arrival for a restful night.

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Day 5

Lucknow - Naimisharanya - Ayodhya

Embark on a journey to Naimisharanya, a lesser-explored pilgrimage site, before proceeding to Ayodhya, the sacred birthplace of Shri Ram. Naimisharanya holds immense religious significance for the Hindus as a sacred forest where sages gathered to perform penance and discuss spiritual teachings. This hallowed site is believed to be the abode of Lord Vishnu in the form of a forest. Prominent attractions include the Chakra Tirtha, where Lord Vishnu's discus is said to have landed, and the Vyaspeetha, where the sage Vedavyasa is believed to have narrated the Mahabharata. It remains a haven for seekers of wisdom and solace. After exploring Naimisharanya, depart for Ayodhya. On arrival at Ayodhya, check in at the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 6

Ayodhya - Prayagraj

After breakfast, proceed to explore Ayodhya, revered as the birthplace of Lord Rama, stands as a symbol of religious and historical significance in Hinduism. It embodies the ideals of righteousness and dharma depicted in the epic Ramayana. The first and the most venerated shrine of Ayodhya is Shri Ram Temple where devotees flock to pay homage to the deity. Thereafter, visit Hanuman Garhi, a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and the Kanak Bhawan, adorned with intricate artwork. Ayodhya's sacred river, Sarayu, adds to its charm, drawing pilgrims seeking spiritual purification. Its legacy resonates through time, inspiring millions with its tales of devotion and valor.

After exploring Ayodhya, depart for Prayagraj, a city of profound religious significance.

Prayagraj, known as the "City of Offerings," holds profound religious and historical importance in Hinduism. Situated at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and invisible Saraswati rivers, it hosts the Kumbh Mela, the largest spiritual gathering on Earth. The city's heritage is enriched by the ancient Prayag Raj Fort and the magnificent Akshaya Vat, a sacred banyan tree. The Sangam, where the rivers merge, is a revered site for spiritual ablutions. Prayagraj's significance also extends to the freedom struggle, being the site of the historic 1857 uprising. It remains a melting pot of faith, history, and culture.

On arrival, check in at the hotel for overnight stay.

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Day 7

Prayagraj - Chitrakoot

After breakfast, early in the morning, you will be taken to Triveni Sangam to have holy dip therein and visit nearby holy shrines like Patalpuri Temple, Akshayavat, Bade Hanuman Ji Temple and Nag Vasuki Temple. Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and invisible Saraswati rivers, epitomizes spiritual purity in Prayagraj. Veni Madhav, a form of Lord Vishnu, is said to be at the very site of Sangam. Patal Puri Temple, situated near Sangam, is revered as a gateway to the netherworld, visited by pilgrims seeking ancestral blessings. Akshayavat, an ancient banyan tree, symbolizes immortality and is a revered site for meditation and prayers. Bade Hanuman Ji Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, attracts devotees with its grand idol and tales of divine interventions. Nag Vasuki Temple, honoring the serpent deity Nag Vasuki, showcases intricate Nagara architecture, captivating visitors with its spiritual ambiance and historical significance.

After visiting these holy shrines, you will be taken to the ashrama site of Sage Bharadwaj. Hereinafter, have lunch in a city restaurant and depart for Chitrakoot.

Chitrakoot, in the lap of the Vindhya mountains, is revered as the place where Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman spent a significant part of their exile. It is dotted with sacred sites like Ramghat, where they bathed, and Kamadgiri, believed to fulfill wishes. The town resonates with the verses of ancient scriptures and echoes with tales of devotion. Pilgrims and seekers flock to Chitrakoot, seeking solace, inspiration, and a deeper connection with the divine.

On arrival at Chitrakoot, you will directly be transferred to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 8

Chitrakoot exploration - Prayagraj

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed on for sightseeing of the holy places and shrines of Chitrakoot especially Kamadgiri, Sati Anusuya Ashram, Gupt Godavari, Bharat Milap Temple and Ramghat. Kamadgiri is a hill revered for its association with Lord Rama. Sati Anusuya Ashram commemorates the devout wife known for her unparalleled virtue. Gupt Godavari entices pilgrims with its hidden caves and religious significance. Bharat Milap Temple enshrines the reunion of Lord Ram and his brother Bharat, symbolizing familial bonds. Ramghat, where the Mandakini River flows gently, offers a serene setting for devotees to bathe and perform rituals, immersing themselves in the divine atmosphere of Chitrakoot's rich spiritual heritage.

After exploring Chitrakoot, depart for Prayagraj. On arrival at Prayagraj, check in at the hotel for overnight stay.

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Day 9

Prayagraj - Vindhyachal - Varanasi

Early morning, having taken scrumptious breakfast, check out from the hotel and depart for Varanasi. On the way to Varanasi, take a detour to Vindhyachal Devi Shaktipeetham Temple.

Vindhyachal Devi Temple, nestled in the Vindhyachal mountain range, is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini. Devotees flock to seek her blessings for strength and protection. The temple's serene ambiance and architectural grandeur create an atmosphere of devotion, attracting pilgrims from far and wide.

After doing ‘darshan’, depart for Varanasi, the oldest living city of the world and spiritual capital of India.

Varanasi, one of the world's oldest continually inhabited cities, holds immense religious and cultural significance in Hinduism. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, it's believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Varanasi is a center for spirituality, cremation, and pilgrimage, drawing seekers from all corners of the globe. Its ancient ghats, temples, and vibrant rituals embody the essence of Hindu spirituality and eternal renewal.

On arrival at Varanasi, check in at the hotel to take rest. Late afternoon, you will be taken to Dashashwamedh Ghat to watch Ganga Aarti. After enjoying Ganga Aarti, return to hotel for overnight stay.

Day 10

Varanasi sightseeing

Begin your day with an early morning boat ride along the sacred Ganges in Varanasi offers a serene and spiritual experience, witnessing the city come alive with devotion. A pilgrimage to Kashi Vishwanath, the revered abode of Lord Shiva, is a journey into the heart of Hinduism. Nearby, the Annapurna Devi Temple grants blessings of nourishment and abundance. Devotees pay homage to Shani Dev at his temple, seeking protection from malevolent forces. The Kal Bhairav Temple exudes an aura of power and protection. Exploring Banaras Hindu University (BHU) showcases the fusion of tradition and modernity. Sankat Mochan Temple and Durga Temple offer solace and divine grace, completing the spiritual odyssey through Varanasi's sacred sites. Sightseeing is followed by an exploration of the city's cultural landmarks and culinary delights. In the evening, gain insight into the craftsmanship behind Banarasi saris at a silk weaving center. Overnight stay is scheduled in Varanasi hotel.

Day 11

Varanasi - Departure

Conclude your journey with a visit to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist site, exploring its temples, stupas, and museum. Finally, you'll be escorted to the Varanasi airport for your onward journey, bidding farewell to the enriching experiences of your tour.