Day 1 UK - Delhi
Today you will fly to Delhi.
Day 2 Delhi
On arrival in Delhi we will transfer you to your comfortable hotel, the rest of the day will be at the hotel for you to relax and enjoy the hotel's facilities. L, D
Day 3 Delhi - Agra
We'll start our sightseeing in the 17th century walled city of Old Delhi, we'll explore by foot as we take a stroll through the fabled street bazaar, Chandni Chowk, and admire the impressive marble domes of Jama Masjid Mosque. We'll also visit Gandhi Smriti Museum, the location where Gandhi spent the last 144 days of his life and the place of his assassination. And enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the 17th century walled city of Old Delhi. As we go, we'll delve into its maze of crowded streets and thronging markets, and see the spectacular exterior of the Red Fort.
Next, we tour New Delhi, a spacious, imperial city created by the British in 1911. We'll drive through elegant boulevards to see the iconic India Gate and imposing Parliament House, which are grand reminders of the city's colonial past. We'll also see Humayun's Tomb, built in 1570 and said to have inspired the Taj Mahal and Bangla Saheb Gurudwara - a Sikh Temple.
Our day concludes with a drive to Agra. B,D
Day 4 Agra
Get ready to experience one of the highlights of your holiday today – a dawn visit to the incredible Taj Mahal. This magnificent mausoleum, built by the Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz, is one of the world's most glorious sights. We'll watch in awe as the sun rises over its white marble walls which are inlaid with semi-precious stones. We'll also head to nearby Mehtab Bagh, a centuries-old garden complex, for a fabulous view of this iconic masterpiece from the other side of the Yamuna River. Our next stop is at the red-sandstone Agra Fort, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son, then we'll see the Itmad ud Daulah tomb. This was the first monument in India to be built entirely from marble and is also known as the 'Baby Taj'. If you would like to enjoy an evening out, there's the option to watch a performance of Mohabbat the Taj, about Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife. Featuring colourful costumes, enchanting songs and energetic dancing, this is the perfect end to our day. B,D
Day 5 Agra - Duasa
Today we journey by road to our next hotel, on the way we will visit the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri. On arrival we have lunch followed by an afternoon of free time at leisure. Later, we're going to get together to enjoy dinner together. B,L,D
Day 6 Duasa - Ranthambore
Our journey will take us through the ever changing scenery to Ranthambore where over the next couple of days we will get the chance to spot some amazing wildlife. B,L,D
Day 7 Ranthambore
A thrilling day lies ahead, with not just one but two safaris in Ranthambore National Park, said to be the best game reserve in India. On morning and afternoon game drives we'll make our way through thick forest, where pretty waterfalls provide the perfect habitat for more than 300 species of birds. Our knowledgeable Local Guide will help you to spot other residents of the park, including crocodile, hyena, jackal and more. Keep your fingers crossed for a sighting of the elusive tiger, or the even rarer leopard. B,L,D
Day 8 Ranthambore - Jaipur
Today we've the famous 'Pink City' of Jaipur in our sights, which we'll reach by road. Views of sandstone buildings tinged with pink and ochre set amongst barren hills will greet us on arrival in the capital of Rajasthan. We'll get our bearings with an afternoon guided tour, which includes the commanding City Palace and the Mughal treasures in its museum. We'll also see the elaborate facade of the Palace of the Winds, from where ladies of the court could watch unseen. Before we head to our hotel, there will be time to browse the colourful ceramics and textiles in the Old Town's bustling markets.
Whilst in Jaipur you will also be served a glass of Lassi, a blend of water, yoghurt, spices and sometimes fruit. The drink, traditionally served in earthern pots to add a unique aroma, is topped with a thick layer of malai, leaving you refreshed and surprisingly full! B,D
Day 9 Jaipur - Delhi
Your day begins with a short drive to the marvellous Amber Fort, a 17th century stronghold which sits on a hilltop overlooking the desert. We'll step inside to see the eerie Temple of Kali, the jewel-like Palace of Mirrors and the enchanting Hall of Pleasures. Later, we return to Delhi by road. B, D
Day 10 Delhi - UK
This morning we'll transfer you to the airport for your return flight to the UK. As you are travelling westwards, you will arrive later the same day. B