Welcome to Delhi! Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. As India’s capital and one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, Delhi is a vibrant and dynamic metropolis, where ancient history and modern life coexist in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and experiences. This colourful and bustling city is home to a fascinating mix of historic monuments, world-class museums, contemporary art galleries, lively bazaars, and upscale shopping districts. Often referred to as the ‘Immortal City’, Delhi embodies the riches of India’s past and present, offering an exciting introduction to the country’s cultural and historical treasures.

Spend today exploring Delhi with a local guide, uncovering the city’s fascinating blend of history, culture, and daily life. A great way to start is in Old Delhi, once the heart of 17th-century Shahjahanabad, where a rickshaw ride through the maze-like laneways of Chandni Chowk provides an exciting introduction to the city’s bustling atmosphere. This historic quarter is home to vibrant markets, street food stalls, and architectural gems, including the impressive Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, and the bustling Khari Baoli spice market, where the air is thick with the aroma of cardamom, saffron, and dried chillies.

With so much to see, one day is never enough to take in all of Delhi’s highlights. If you’re drawn to history and architecture, visit the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and Qutub Minar, each offering a glimpse into the city’s grand past. For those interested in colonial heritage, explore India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, and Connaught Place, where British-era influences remain visible. Art and museum lovers may enjoy a visit to the National Museum or the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, while food enthusiasts can sample Delhi’s famous chaat (street snacks) or dine at one of its renowned restaurants.

Your guide will tailor the day to suit your interests, ensuring a personalised and engaging experience of India’s dynamic capital. Whether you choose to wander through ancient ruins, browse bustling bazaars, or soak up the city’s street life, Delhi promises an unforgettable mix of old and new.

Depart Delhi this morning for Jaipur, a 6-hour drive through the changing landscapes of northern India. Known as the ‘Pink City’, Jaipur is the capital and largest city of Rajasthan, with a population of over three million.

Designed in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jaipur is considered one of India’s first planned cities, built at a time when most towns were a maze of narrow, twisting lanes, forts, temples, and traditional dwellings. Laid out in a grid pattern inspired by ancient Hindu architectural principles, the city’s wide avenues and orderly design set it apart from its contemporaries. Today, Jaipur is not only a historical and cultural hub but also home to some of India’s finest heritage hotels, offering visitors a blend of royal grandeur and Rajasthani hospitality.

Spend today exploring Jaipur with a local guide, uncovering the city’s rich history, architectural wonders, and vibrant culture. Known as the ‘Pink City’ for its distinctive rose-hued buildings, Jaipur is one of India’s most captivating destinations, blending royal heritage with bustling bazaars and artistic traditions.

Begin the day with a visit to the Amber Fort, a majestic hilltop fortress that offers stunning views of the Aravalli Hills and Mansagar Lake. Built in the 16th century, this sprawling fort complex is a masterpiece of Rajput and Mughal architecture, with ornate gateways, mirrored halls, intricately carved courtyards, and frescoed walls. As you explore, your guide will share stories of Jaipur’s royal past, bringing the fort’s grand history to life.

Next, stop at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), one of Jaipur’s most photogenic landmarks. Its intricately designed façade, featuring hundreds of small windows and latticed balconies, was built to allow royal women to observe city life while remaining unseen. Though the structure is more of a decorative frontage than a palace, it remains an icon of Jaipur’s architectural beauty.

Continue to the City Palace, a still-inhabited royal residence that showcases a stunning blend of Rajasthani and Mughal design. Wander through its elegant courtyards, grand halls, and museums, which house an impressive collection of textiles, weapons, paintings, and royal artefacts. Part of the palace remains the home of Jaipur’s current royal family, adding to its sense of living history.

A visit to Jantar Mantar, Maharaja Jai Singh’s astronomy park, offers a fascinating glimpse into India’s scientific advancements. Built in the early 18th century, this UNESCO-listed observatory features massive sundials and instruments used to measure time, track celestial bodies, and predict eclipses with remarkable accuracy.

If you’re interested in shopping, Jaipur is one of the best places in India to indulge. The city is a treasure trove of Rajasthani craftsmanship, with bustling markets offering hand-block printed textiles, intricate jewellery, colourful bangles, embroidered juttis (traditional footwear), blue pottery, and beautifully carved wooden handicrafts. Explore Johari Bazaar for gemstones and jewellery, Bapu Bazaar for textiles, and Chandpole Bazaar for marble and wooden artefacts. Your guide can take you to the best spots, whether you’re looking for high-quality souvenirs or a deep dive into Jaipur’s artisan traditions.

With its regal palaces, vibrant markets, and deep-rooted heritage, Jaipur offers a day filled with history, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

Today, set off on a fascinating guided walk through Jaipur, immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant street life, rich artisan traditions, and renowned culinary heritage. This experience offers a closer look at daily life in the Pink City, where centuries-old craftsmanship and bustling markets coexist with the modern rhythm of urban India.

As you wander through the lively streets, mingle with locals and sample some of Jaipur’s most famous street food, stopping at popular vendors known for their freshly prepared delicacies. Be sure to try crispy pakoras, flavourful aloo tiki (spiced potato patties), golden-brown samosas, and sweet ladoos, each offering a delicious taste of Rajasthan’s culinary heritage.

Along the way, visit local artisans in their workshops, where traditional crafts have been perfected over generations. Watch skilled jewellers, silversmiths, and gold painters at work, creating intricate pieces using age-old techniques. Observe the delicate process of tie-dyeing, where vibrant fabrics take on dazzling patterns, and admire the craftsmanship of meenakari (enamel work) and kundan jewellery, both signature styles of Jaipur’s royal-era artistry.

A highlight of your walk is a visit to a private haveli, a beautifully preserved traditional mansion. Step inside to meet the owner, who will introduce you to his home’s exquisite gold-painted walls, elaborate tapestries, handwoven carpets, and rare artefacts, each with its own story to tell. This glimpse into Jaipur’s grand heritage and timeless artistry offers a truly immersive cultural experience, bringing the city’s history to life in a personal and engaging way.

This morning, set off on a 3 to 4-hour drive to Ranthambhore National Park, once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur and now one of India’s most famous wildlife reserves. Known for its thriving population of Bengal tigers, this vast park is a mix of dense forests, open grasslands, and ancient ruins, creating a dramatic setting for wildlife spotting and exploration.

After lunch, take a scenic trek up to Ranthambhore Fort, a 1,000-year-old Rajput stronghold perched 215 metres above the surrounding plains. Set high on a rocky cliff, this UNESCO-listed site boasts splendid ruins, ancient temples, step-wells, and intricate stone carvings, offering a glimpse into Rajasthan’s rich history. From the fort’s ramparts, soak in the spectacular panoramic views of the park and its three shimmering lakes, where you might even spot deer, crocodiles, or birds of prey below. The combination of history, nature, and breathtaking scenery makes this an unforgettable introduction to Ranthambhore’s wild beauty.

Today, set out on morning and late afternoon shared jeep safaris into Ranthambhore National Park, one of India’s most celebrated wildlife reserves. With a bit of luck, you may catch a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger, which roams freely through the park’s rugged terrain. While tiger sightings are never guaranteed, Ranthambhore’s diverse landscape of forests, grasslands, rocky ridges, and ancient ruins provides an exciting setting for wildlife encounters.

Beyond its famed tigers, the park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, jackals, nilgai (blue bull antelope), wild boar, and spotted deer. Keep an eye out for crocodiles basking near the lakes, as well as a spectacular range of birdlife, from majestic eagles and owls to vibrant parakeets and kingfishers. The park’s lush vegetation, sacred banyan trees, and open grasslands create a habitat teeming with life, making every safari a unique and thrilling experience.

When you’re not out exploring, take time to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of your beautiful hotel. Many of the lodges and resorts near Ranthambhore offer a peaceful escape, with lush gardens, refreshing pools, and excellent regional cuisine.

This morning, set off on a 4-hour drive to Karauli, a lesser-explored gem of Rajasthan, arriving in time to enjoy lunch at your charming heritage hotel. Tucked away from the usual tourist trail, your accommodation is a former Maharaja’s palace, beautifully restored to showcase its art deco grandeur. With its ornate interiors, vintage charm, and regal ambience, the palace offers a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal past, while its collection of classic cars, organic dairy, and working farm add to its unique character.

The afternoon is yours to relax at leisure. You might choose to stroll through the palace grounds, admire its architecture, or simply unwind in the peaceful surroundings. With its rich history, serene atmosphere, and warm hospitality, this is the perfect place to experience authentic Rajasthani heritage in a truly elegant setting.

Today, set out on a camel cart ride through the charming village of Karauli, offering a glimpse into local life and traditional craftsmanship. As you travel through the narrow streets, you’ll pass colourful market stalls and small workshops, where artisans create intricate lacquer bangles, hand-carved wooden toys, and delicate bamboo crafts. Karauli is also known for its traditional sweets, so be sure to sample some locally made treats, prepared using age-old recipes passed down through generations.

Later, visit the once-magnificent City Palace, a hidden treasure of Rajasthan. Though parts of the palace remain in need of restoration, it retains many impressive architectural features, reflecting the grandeur of its royal past. Explore its ornate courtyards, beautifully carved stone facades, and intricately painted walls, each telling a story of the region’s rich history. One of the palace’s highlights is the Durbar Hall, where you’ll find exquisite wall paintings, stunning stone carvings, and elaborate frescoes, showcasing the artistic heritage of Karauli’s former rulers.

Within the palace grounds, visit the Krishna Temple, a revered site dedicated to Lord Krishna, one of the most beloved deities in Hinduism. In the evening, witness the Aarti ritual, a sacred prayer ceremony where lamps are lit, devotional hymns are sung, and the air is filled with the sounds of bells and chants.

After breakfast, depart Karauli for the 5-hour drive to Gwalior, a city steeped in history, royal heritage, and architectural grandeur. Though often overlooked by travellers, Gwalior boasts one of India’s most impressive hill forts, rising dramatically above the city’s skyline. With its mix of historic palaces, ancient temples, and musical traditions, Gwalior offers a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-explored side of North India.

On arrival, check in to Usha Kiran Palace, your accommodation for the night. This elegantly restored palace was once the residence of Gwalior’s royal family and retains much of its regal charm. The property features stunning Raj-era architecture, beautifully manicured gardens, and antique-filled interiors, creating an atmosphere of refined heritage and understated luxury.

In the evening, take time to unwind on the upstairs terrace, where you can enjoy a sundowner with breathtaking views of Gwalior Fort. As the sun sets and the fort’s sandstone walls glow in the fading light, it’s the perfect setting to soak in the history and grandeur of this remarkable city.

This is an opportunity to experience India beyond its well-trodden cities and famous landmarks, discovering the rich history and architectural splendour of Gwalior.

Spend the morning exploring the magnificent Gwalior Fort, one of India’s most striking hill forts, perched 100 metres above the city on a vast sandstone plateau. Spanning nearly 3 kilometres, the fort’s 10-metre-high defensive walls enclose a collection of ancient temples, grand palaces, and intricately designed stepwells, each with a story to tell. Wander through the Man Singh Palace, known for its distinctive blue-tiled façade, the Sas-Bahu Temples, renowned for their exquisite carvings, and the Gujari Mahal, now a museum housing artefacts from the region’s royal past.

In the evening, return to the fort’s open-air amphitheatre for the sound and light show, where dramatic narration, music, and illuminated visuals bring Gwalior’s rich history to life.

This morning, set off on a 3-hour drive to Agra, a city renowned for its grand forts, opulent palaces, lush gardens, and magnificent mausoleums. Once the seat of the Mughal Empire during the 16th and 17th centuries, Agra flourished as a centre of power, art, and culture, leaving behind some of the most exquisite examples of Mughal architecture in India.

Agra’s architectural legacy is unmatched, with landmarks such as the imposing Agra Fort, the elegant Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (often referred to as the ‘Baby Taj’), and the peaceful Mehtab Bagh, which offers stunning views of the Yamuna River and the Taj Mahal. However, it is the Taj Mahal itself, India’s most celebrated monument, that defines Agra’s timeless beauty. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this jewel of India is a masterpiece of white marble, blending Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural influences. Its perfect symmetry, intricate carvings, and luminous presence make it one of the most breathtaking sights in the world.

Rise early this morning to witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when the soft morning light bathes its white marble in hues of pink and gold. As the mist lifts from the Yamuna River, the monument’s intricate carvings and delicate inlay work slowly come into focus, creating a moment of pure magic. With fewer crowds at this hour, you can fully appreciate the serene beauty and breathtaking symmetry of this icon of love, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

After taking in the unforgettable sunrise views, return to your hotel for breakfast and a relaxed start to the day. Later, set out to explore the Agra Fort, an architectural masterpiece in its own right. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and expanded by his successors, this red sandstone fortress was once the seat of Mughal power. Wander through its grand halls, intricate courtyards, and beautiful mosques, including the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience) and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience). From its massive ramparts, enjoy sweeping views of the Taj Mahal in the distance, a sight that Shah Jahan himself once gazed upon while imprisoned here in his final years.

After a morning of history and exploration, leave behind the crowds of Agra and set off on a 1-hour drive to Chambal Safari Eco Lodge. This peaceful retreat, nestled in a wildlife-rich conservation area, feels a world away from the bustling city. Surrounded by lush farmland, acacia forests, and pristine waterways, the lodge offers a chance to unwind in nature, experience India’s diverse wildlife, and explore the untouched landscapes of the Chambal Valley.

During your stay at this charming, family-run eco-lodge, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the untouched wilderness and cultural heritage of the Chambal Valley, a region known for its rich biodiversity, historical sites, and rural traditions. Nestled within expansive woodlands and farmland, the lodge is home to a diverse range of birdlife and small mammals, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Accompanied by resident naturalists, you can immerse yourself in the landscape at your own pace, choosing from a variety of activities. Take early morning or evening nature walks, where you might spot jackals, jungle cats, or Indian foxes, along with a spectacular array of bird species, including Indian skimmers, sarus cranes, and kingfishers. For a more adventurous experience, set off on a boat safari along the Chambal River, gliding past steep ravines and sandy banks, where you may encounter the critically endangered gharial (fish-eating crocodile), mugger crocodiles, Gangetic river dolphins, and softshell turtles. Alternatively, explore the rugged terrain on a jeep, camel, or horse safari, venturing through grasslands, riverbeds, and forested areas, each offering a different perspective of this biodiversity hotspot.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Chambal Valley is steeped in history and folklore, with ancient temples, medieval fortresses, and hidden ruins scattered throughout the region. Visit local villages, where you can witness traditional ways of life, or explore centuries-old architectural wonders that tell the story of Chambal’s turbulent past, once infamous as a stronghold for outlaws and bandits.

Return to Delhi today - approximately a 6-hour drive - and transfer to the airport for your flight home or to another Indian destination.