Golden Triangle With Ranthambore
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Group Size 12 Peoples
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 10-day journey through India’s magnificent Golden Triangle, enhanced by an exciting wildlife adventure in Ranthambore National Park. This carefully crafted itinerary combines the cultural splendour of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur with the thrill of tiger spotting in one of India’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries.
Perfect for first-time visitors to India, this tour offers a brilliant mix of history, culture, and nature. Walk through the bustling lanes of Old Delhi, marvel at the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise, explore the mighty Amber Fort in Jaipur, and experience heart-pumping jungle safaris in Ranthambore. Our expertly planned route ensures you’ll experience the very best of North India’s golden age, from Mughal monuments to maharajas’ palaces, while enjoying comfortable travel times between destinations.
This journey isn’t just about ticking off famous landmarks – it’s about immersing yourself in India’s vibrant culture. You’ll feast on authentic local cuisine, interact with friendly locals, and discover hidden gems that most tourists miss. Whether you’re haggling in colourful bazaars, watching artisans at work, or scanning the jungle for tigers, each day brings new and exciting experiences.
Key Information
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Duration: 10 Days, 9 Nights
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Best Time to Visit: October to March
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Tour Start/End: Delhi
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Physical Level: Moderate
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Group Size: 2-12 people
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Transport: Private AC vehicle
Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 7
- Wildlife Safaris: 3
- Cultural Experiences: 12
- Local Market Visits: 5
- Traditional Performances: 3
- Culinary Experiences: 8
Included/Excluded
Step into India's captivating capital, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern life. As you drive from the airport through the wide tree-lined avenues of New Delhi, catch glimpses of colonial-era buildings and bustling markets. Your first evening offers a gentle introduction to Indian culture with a welcome dinner featuring live classical music at a heritage haveli, setting the perfect tone for your adventure ahead. Activities:
- Airport pickup and hotel transfer
- Evening welcome ceremony
- Traditional dinner with cultural performance
- The Imperial or similar (5-star)
- Welcome dinner at Haveli Dharampura
- Evening tea and snacks at hotel
Begin your day exploring the contrasts of Old and New Delhi. Watch the city wake up at the stunning Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, as morning light plays on its white marble domes. Weave through the vibrant lanes of Chandni Chowk in a cycle rickshaw, where spice merchants call out their wares and centuries-old shops sell everything from wedding clothes to street food. After lunch, discover the orderly boulevards of New Delhi, visiting the towering Qutub Minar and peaceful Humayun's Tomb. Activities:
- Morning visit to Jama Masjid
- Cycle rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk
- Spice market walk
- Visit Qutub Minar complex
- Explore Humayun's Tomb
- Evening walk at India Gate
- The Imperial or similar (5-star)
- Breakfast at hotel
- Lunch at Karim's in Old Delhi
- Dinner at Bukhara, ITC Maurya
Leave the bustle of Delhi behind as you journey to Agra, home of the magnificent Taj Mahal. After checking in, visit the impressive Agra Fort, where Shah Jahan spent his final days gazing at his masterpiece. End your day watching the sunset paint the marble walls of the Taj Mahal golden from the peaceful Mehtab Bagh gardens across the river. Activities:
- Morning drive to Agra (4 hours)
- Agra Fort exploration
- Mehtab Bagh sunset visit
- Local craft demonstration
- Evening cultural show
- ITC Mughal or similar (5-star)
- Breakfast at Delhi hotel
- Lunch at Pinch of Spice
- Dinner at Pind Balluchi
Rise early for the highlight of your journey - watching the sun rise over the Taj Mahal. Spend the morning exploring this wonder of the world with your expert guide, learning the fascinating stories behind its creation. Later, visit the heritage village of Kachhpura for an authentic glimpse of local life and take part in a cooking class to master some Mughlai specialities. Activities:
- Sunrise Taj Mahal visit
- Heritage walk in Kachhpura village
- Marble inlay workshop
- Cooking class
- Evening Mohabbat the Taj show
- ITC Mughal or similar (5-star)
- Breakfast at hotel
- Lunch during cooking class
- Dinner at hotel's Mughlai restaurant
Journey to Ranthambore, stopping en route at the fascinating ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. Explore this perfectly preserved Mughal capital before continuing to Ranthambore National Park, your base for tiger spotting. Arrive in time for an evening nature walk and briefing about the park's wildlife. Activities:
- Morning drive to Ranthambore (6-7 hours)
- Fatehpur Sikri tour
- Evening nature walk
- Wildlife documentary screening
- Expert talk on tigers
- Oberoi Vanyavilas or similar (5-star)
- Breakfast at Agra hotel
- Packed lunch en route
- Dinner at jungle lodge
Experience the thrill of two jungle safaris today in search of the majestic Bengal tiger. Morning and afternoon game drives take you through varied terrain where you might spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and various deer species. Between safaris, relax at your luxury lodge or visit the impressive Ranthambore Fort. Activities:
- Morning jungle safari
- Afternoon jungle safari
- Visit to Ranthambore Fort
- Bird watching session
- Evening wildlife presentation
- Oberoi Vanyavilas or similar (5-star)
- Breakfast at lodge
- Lunch at lodge
- Dinner under the stars
Take your final morning safari in Ranthambore before departing for the Pink City of Jaipur. On arrival, ease into the city's charm with a heritage walk through the old bazaar, followed by a visit to a local family for traditional tea and snacks. Activities:
- Morning jungle safari
- Drive to Jaipur (4 hours)
- Evening heritage walk
- Local family visit
- Traditional puppet show
- Rambagh Palace or similar (5-star)
- Breakfast at Ranthambore
- Lunch en route
- Dinner with local family
Start your day with an optional hot air balloon ride over the city. Visit the magnificent Amber Fort, ascending by jeep to explore its grand courtyards and halls. Afternoon visits include the City Palace, Jantar Mantar observatory, and the famous Hawa Mahal. End your day with shopping in Jaipur's famous bazaars. Activities:
- Optional balloon ride
- Amber Fort tour
- City Palace visit
- Jantar Mantar exploration
- Shopping in local bazaars
- Block printing workshop
- Rambagh Palace or similar (5-star)
- Breakfast at hotel
- Lunch at 1135 AD, Amber Fort
- Dinner at Suvarna Mahal
Delve deeper into Jaipur's artistic heritage today. Visit the ancient temple of Galtaji, take part in a traditional art workshop, and explore the craft villages around the city. Evening cultural performance at Chokhi Dhani village resort provides a fitting finale to your Rajasthan experience. Activities:
- Visit Galtaji Temple
- Art workshop
- Craft village tour
- Evening at Chokhi Dhani
- Astrology session
- Sunset at Nahargarh Fort
- Rambagh Palace or similar (5-star)
- Breakfast at hotel
- Lunch at local restaurant
- Dinner at Chokhi Dhani
Return to Delhi by road or optional flight. Depending on your departure time, enjoy some last-minute shopping or relax at a day room before your international flight. Activities:
- Morning drive/flight to Delhi
- Optional shopping
- Airport transfer
- Breakfast at Jaipur hotel
- Lunch en route/at Delhi
Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal time is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and tigers are more easily spotted in Ranthambore. Summer months (April-June) can be extremely hot, while monsoon season (July-September) may affect safari activities.
While tiger sightings can't be guaranteed, Ranthambore has one of India's highest tiger populations. With three safaris included in this tour, you have approximately a 70% chance of spotting a tiger. The best sighting opportunities are during early morning and late afternoon safaris.
Yes, this tour is family-friendly. The mix of cultural sites, wildlife experiences, and interactive activities keeps children engaged. We recommend it for families with children aged 6 and above, as some days involve considerable walking.
Pack modest, lightweight clothing that covers shoulders and knees for temple visits. Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and warm layers for early morning safaris. For Ranthambore, pack neutral-coloured clothing (avoid bright colours). Smart casual attire is suitable for evening activities.
Most days include 2-3 hours of walking at a leisurely pace, with regular breaks. Sites like Amber Fort and Delhi's markets involve more walking. We can arrange wheelchair access and alternative transport options where needed.
The tour includes a mix of Indian and international cuisine at carefully selected restaurants. Vegetarian options are widely available, and we can accommodate dietary requirements (gluten-free, vegan, halal) with advance notice.
Stick to bottled water provided during the tour. Our guides can recommend safe street food experiences, but we include carefully selected restaurants in the itinerary to ensure food safety.
Bring a camera with good zoom capability (at least 300mm lens) for wildlife photography. A steady hand or monopod is useful. Morning safaris often start in low light, so a higher ISO capability is beneficial.
Travel times are carefully planned to minimise fatigue. Delhi to Agra (4 hours), Agra to Ranthambore (6-7 hours), and Ranthambore to Jaipur (4 hours) are broken up with interesting stops and comfortable vehicles.
All hotels are carefully selected 4/5-star properties with excellent amenities. From heritage palaces in Jaipur to luxury jungle lodges in Ranthambore, each offers authentic experiences with modern comforts.
The balloon ride offers unique views of Jaipur's forts and palaces in the morning light. While it adds to the cost, most guests consider it a trip highlight. Book in advance as spaces are limited.
Budget £300-500 per person for shopping, optional activities, and meals not included. Major shops accept credit cards but carry cash for markets and small purchases.
Exchange some money at UK airports for immediate needs, then use ATMs in India for better rates. Your guide can help find reliable money changers. Major hotels and restaurants accept cards.
Safari drives can be bumpy as you're in natural terrain. Vehicles are well-maintained with proper seating, but if you have back problems, inform us for extra cushioning arrangements.
Ranthambore safaris run in light rain but may be cancelled in heavy rainfall for safety. In such cases, we arrange alternative activities or try to reschedule safaris where possible.