The 'Golden Triangle'
A fantastic bite-sized introduction to North India - the chaos and buzz of Delhi, incomparable Taj Mahal of Agra and a taste of Rajasthan's shopping and sightseeing in Jaipur. Easily varied if you have more or less time available:
6 days (Delhi–Agra–Jaipur–Delhi); 8 days (Delhi–Agra–Ranthambore–Jaipur–Delhi); 10 days (Delhi–Agra–Karauli-Ranthambore–Jaipur–Delhi)
This short trip of between 5 and 9 days offers a taste of the splendors of North India. By adding Ranthambhore National Park you have the opportunity to spot the elusive tiger, and we can also add a stop at Karauli for a stay at a lovely heritage hotel in the countryside - a chance to get away from the big cities. Please inquire and we would be happy to customise an itinerary based on your interests and requirements.
Day 1 Delhi
On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Delhi, India's capital and a city of more than 14 million people – half of whom appear to have come to the airport for your arrival – is a colourful, busy, chaotic city packed with museums, art galleries, historic sites, shops and bazaars. It would take a lifetime to discover all that is Delhi.
Day 2 Delhi
Spend today sightseeing with a local guide. Old Delhi is a mix of ancient monuments and modern commerce. Visit Jama Masjid, the greatest mosque in India; take a cycle-rickshaw ride through crowded bazaars to the famous shopping street of Chandni Chowk; visit Raj Ghat, the simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, explore New Delhi, including the stately government buildings and Presidential Palace and the modern Ba’hai temple; end the tour at the towering minaret of Qutab Minar.
Day 3 Agra
This morning drive 5 hours to Agra. Four hundred years ago, two great Mughal monarchs transformed the village of Agra into a city befitting the glory of the mighty Mughal Empire, one of them building a monument unrivalled for beauty – the Taj Mahal. Late afternoon visit to Agra Fort, which is an architectural wonder itself.
Day 4 Ranthambhore
Wake up early morning to enjoy the sight of the magnificent Taj Mahal by the early morning light. After seeing the Taj with an expert local guide, return to the hotel for breakfast, before beginning the 7-hour drive to Ranthambhore. On arrival check into your hotel and take an afternoon safari into the park.
Day 5 Jaipur
This morning take another jeep safari into the park, where there are many animals to be seen, in addition to the possibility of seeing the elusive tiger. Afterwards begin the 3-hour drive to Jaipur. The capital and 'pink city' of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a friendly, busy town, with its palaces and bazaars full of jewellery, textiles and folk-based arts and handicrafts. Afternoon free at leisure.
Day 6 Jaipur
Spend today exploring Jaipur with a local guide. Visit Amber Fort, the photogenic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), still inhabited City Palace, and Maharaja Jai Singh's astronomy park. In the afternoon, there is the option to visit to the famous Raj Mandir cinema to catch a Bollywood film, or to go shopping in the local bazaars, where bargaining is as much a part of the fun as the purchase.
Day 7 Delhi
Morning free for some last minute shopping and packing. This afternoon drive 6 hours to Delhi airport for your flight home or onward travel in India.