Classic Golden Triangle & Wildlife Safari

Touch down in Delhi where our friendly local guide will greet you with a warm welcome. We'll take you straight to your luxurious hotel in the heart of New Delhi for a relaxing afternoon. Later, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner featuring modern Indian cuisine, while your guide briefs you about the exciting journey ahead.

Today we'll dive into the fascinating contrasts of Old and New Delhi. We'll start in Old Delhi, wandering through the fragrant spice market of Khari Baoli and the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk in a traditional rickshaw. You'll love the energy here - it's exactly how you might imagine India! After lunch at a local restaurant, we'll explore New Delhi's wide boulevards, seeing the impressive India Gate and driving past the grand Presidential Palace. We'll end our day at the stunning Humayun's Tomb, which actually inspired the Taj Mahal.

After a hearty breakfast, we'll set off for Agra, home of the magnificent Taj Mahal. The journey takes about 4 hours, but we'll keep you entertained with stories about the region's fascinating history. Upon arrival, we'll head straight to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll love exploring this massive red sandstone fort where Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal, spent his final days gazing at his masterpiece from the tower. In the late afternoon, we'll visit a local marble workshop to see how the same techniques used in the Taj Mahal are still practiced today. Tonight, we'll enjoy dinner at our hotel with views of the Taj Mahal in the distance.

We'll start early today, but trust me, it's worth it! We're heading to the Taj Mahal for sunrise - there's simply no better time to see this wonder of the world. Watch as the first rays of sunlight dance across the white marble, creating an ethereal glow. Your guide will share the incredible love story behind this magnificent monument while you explore at your own pace. After breakfast back at the hotel, we'll begin our journey to Jaipur, stopping at the fascinating abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri. We'll also visit the impressive Chand Baori stepwell, one of the largest and most beautiful in India. Arrive in Jaipur by evening and settle into your heritage hotel, a former nobleman's mansion.

Today we explore the 'Pink City' of Jaipur! We'll start with a photo stop at the famous Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - don't forget your camera, it's a stunner! Then we'll climb up to the magnificent Amber Fort, either by Jeep or elephant (your choice). Inside, you'll be amazed by the intricate mirror work and painted panels. After lunch at a lovely rooftop restaurant, we'll visit the City Palace, still home to Jaipur's royal family. The afternoon holds a special treat - we'll join a local family for a cooking demonstration and learn the secrets of perfect curry! End the day watching the sun set over the city from a secret spot known only to locals.

This morning, we're heading into rural Rajasthan and on to Ranthambore National Park. Along the way, we'll stop at a small village where you can chat with locals and see traditional pottery being made - you can even try your hand at it! Arrive at our jungle lodge by lunchtime, and after a rest, we'll visit the impressive Ranthambore Fort. Tonight, gather round as our naturalist guide shares fascinating tales about the park's tigers and prepares us for tomorrow's safari adventures.

Excitement builds as we head out early for our first game drive in Ranthambore National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for tigers - the park is one of the best places in the world to spot these magnificent creatures in the wild. But there's more than just tigers - look out for leopards, sloth bears, and hundreds of bird species. After breakfast, enjoy some relaxation time by the pool or join an optional nature walk. In the afternoon, we'll head out for another safari drive, followed by dinner under the stars with local folk musicians providing entertainment.

Another exciting day of wildlife watching! We'll take both morning and afternoon game drives today, maximising our chances of spotting tigers and other wildlife. Between safaris, enjoy a presentation about local conservation efforts and visit a nearby village to learn about life in the jungle's shadow. Tonight, we'll have a special farewell dinner where you can share your tiger-spotting stories with fellow travellers.

After a final morning safari, we'll board our train to Agra. It's a great chance to experience Indian Railways in comfort - we'll be in air-conditioned chairs and lunch will be served on board. Arriving in Agra, the evening is yours to relax or explore the local markets for souvenirs.

This morning we'll visit Mehtab Bagh, beautiful gardens offering unique views of the Taj Mahal across the river. Then we'll explore the fascinating 'Lost City' of Kuraoli, rarely visited by tourists. Here, you'll see ancient temples and mansions slowly being reclaimed by nature. In the afternoon, we'll drive back to Delhi, where you'll have time to freshen up before our farewell dinner at a restaurant famous for its North Indian cuisine.

On your final full day, we'll take you on a food walk through Old Delhi's hidden lanes. Sample delicious street food (don't worry, we know the safe places!), visit Asia's largest spice market, and pick up last-minute souvenirs. The afternoon is free for shopping or relaxation before our final dinner together, where we'll share memories of our Indian adventure.

Today we'll transfer you to Delhi International Airport for your flight back to London, taking with you unforgettable memories of India's colours, flavours, and warm hospitality.