Golden Triangle including a Safari Adventure (Ranthambore): Journey through India’s Splendours (8 nights)

Greetings in the heart of India’s capital! Embark on a captivating journey through the historical landmarks of medieval North India. Delhi, a city that witnessed wars and changing rulers, still echoes the tales of ordinary lives lived amidst the ebb and flow of time. Today, as the city gracefully embraces modern transformations, remnants of its past mingle with the contemporary, creating an ever-evolving tapestry. 

Explore a realm steeped in history, where the aura of seven legendary cities lingers, seamlessly blending the old with the new. Delhi’s landscape is a captivating juxtaposition of tradition and modernity, offering a mesmerising panorama. Join us as we invite you to experience the city’s vibrant chaos and unwavering stability, immersing yourself in its resilience and impatience. Discover a delightful spectrum of amalgamation, crafting a unique world. 

Your journey begins as you land at Delhi Airport. Be welcomed with assistance upon arrival, followed by a seamless transfer to your hotel for a comfortable check-in. 

Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel, beginning your exploration in this enchanting city. 

This morning, indulge in a delightful exploration of Old and New Delhi, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of history and culture. 

In Old Delhi, pay homage at the Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. As you drive past the iconic Red Fort, once a regal avenue for Mughal Royalty and now a bustling commercial hub, witness the city’s vibrant energy. Venture to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, and embark on an enchanting rickshaw ride through the winding lanes of Chandni Chowk market, immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of an oriental bazaar. 

In New Delhi, marvel at the 12th-century Qutub Minar, intricately hand-carved to its impressive height of 234 feet. Explore the resilient iron pillar, a testament to its endurance without rusting for over 1500 years. Visit the mausoleum of Emperor Humayun, a pioneer of Mughal architectural style. Drive past the India Gate, a war memorial honouring the sacrifices of Indian soldiers, and catch glimpses of the President’s residence, formerly the Viceroy’s Palace. As you pass by the Parliament House and Secretariat buildings, admire the captivating fusion of Victorian and 20th-century architecture. 

Conclude your day with an overnight stay at the hotel, savouring the memories of a day filled with historical wonders and cultural richness. 

After breakfast, depart from Delhi and embark on a scenic drive to Agra. Upon arrival, seamlessly check-in at the hotel, marking the beginning of your Agra sojourn. 

Later, delve into the historical tapestry of Agra with a visit to the Agra Fort. Explore its private and public audience halls and other opulent palaces. The fort, a witness to the poignant confinement of Shah Jahan by his son Aurangzeb, offers views of the Taj Mahal, the enduring symbol of love, from its premises. 

As the day unfolds towards sunset, experience the ethereal beauty of the world-famous Taj Mahal. Commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1560 in loving memory of his queen Mumtaz Mahal, this architectural masterpiece is crafted from white marble. Witness the seamless blend of Persian, Turkish, French, and Italian craftsmanship, involving the dedication of 20,000 skilled artisans over 17 years. The Taj Mahal is a poignant “Love Poem in Marble,” a testament to enduring love and artistic brilliance. (Closed on Fridays) 

Conclude your day with the magical allure of the Taj Mahal and retire to your hotel for a well-deserved rest. 

After breakfast, depart from Agra and embark on a journey to Bharatpur, where you will catch a train to Sawai Madhopur. En route, take a detour to explore the historic Fatehpur Sikri, located 40 kilometres from Agra, a city commissioned by Emperor Akbar in 1569. 

Fatehpur Sikri holds the legacy of Emperor Akbar’s reverence for the great Saint Sheikh Salim Chishti, who blessed him with the prophecy of three sons. Initially thriving as Akbar’s capital for 14 years, Fatehpur Sikri gradually abandoned after the emperor’s departure, mainly due to water scarcity. The ‘Ghost City’ preserves the elegance of its well-preserved structures, including the Jama Masjid, the tomb of Salim Chishti, the Panch Mahal Palace, and other majestic palaces that narrate the grandeur of the Mughal Empire during its zenith. 

After this enlightening exploration, savour a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. Following lunch, proceed to the Bharatpur Railway Station for your train journey to Sawai Madhopur. 

Train Details: 

Bharatpur / Sawai Madhopur 

Train: 12060 Kota Jan Shatabdi Express 

Departure: 15:50 

Arrival: 18:02 

(Note: The park remains closed every Wednesday) 

Upon arrival at the railway station, our team will extend a warm welcome, assisting as you transfer to the hotel for a seamless check-in. 

Relax and rejuvenate with an overnight stay at the hotel, preparing for the adventures in Sawai Madhopur. 

Morning & Afternoon Wildlife Safari Adventure by Shared Jeep 

Embark on an exhilarating journey through this renowned national park, considered the prime destination for spotting majestic tigers in Rajasthan. Encompassing 1334 sq km of untamed jungle scrub bordered by rugged ridges, encountering a tiger (approximately 52 to 55 in 2016) is a thrilling blend of timing and chance. Allocate time for two or three safaris to enhance your opportunities for this awe-inspiring sighting. However, be mindful that the wildlife sanctuary offers more than just glimpses of tigers; it boasts a diverse array of wildlife, including over 300 species of birds, ensuring a captivating and enriching experience for every nature enthusiast. 

Morning Departure from Ranthambore to Jaipur post-breakfast. 

Upon reaching Jaipur, smoothly check in at your hotel. 

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of India at Ikaki Niwas, a warm home where you’ll experience a cooking demonstration and share a delightful dinner with an Indian family. 

Retire for the night at the hotel, cherishing the day’s cultural and culinary experiences in Jaipur.

You can participate in an optional evening activity featuring a cooking demonstration followed by dinner. Please note that this activity comes with an additional cost. 

Morning Excursion to Amber Fort after breakfast. Amber, a picturesque and romantic Rajasthani Fort Palace, may seem weathered and rugged from the outside, but its interior is a true marvel. The walls are adorned with miniatures portraying hunting, war scenes, and festive moments, while precious stones and mirrors are intricately embedded into the plaster. A highlight at Amber is the Elephant Ride leading up to the Fort entrance, offering a regal experience reminiscent of the Maharajas’ royal lifestyle. Explore the Jag Mandir or the Hall of Victory within the fort, where the renowned Sheesh Mahal awaits—a room adorned with mirror pieces imported from Belgium. 

En route to Amber Fort, make a brief photography stop at Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds. 

In the afternoon, embark on a city sightseeing tour, starting with Maharaja’s City Palace, a former royal residence transformed into a museum. The Royal family still utilises a portion of the palace. The fortified campus-style architecture covers a significant portion of the city. Noteworthy in the museum is the Armory Museum, housing a remarkable collection of weaponry used by the royal families of Jaipur. 

Continue your tour to Jantar Mantar, the world’s largest stone and marble-crafted observatory, boasting 17 large instruments, many still operational. 

You can participate in an optional evening activity—an Elephant Ride at Dera Amer (Additional cost). 

In the late evening, enjoy a one-hour Elephant Ride on the outskirts of Jaipur, followed by dinner at Dera Amer. The Elephant Safaris navigate the original Aravali forests, passing villages, agricultural fields, hills, and ancient monuments. While panthers are rare, the thriving birdlife in the dense forests is captivating, with occasional sightings of hyenas and wolves. 

Conclude your day with an overnight stay at the hotel, enriched with Jaipur’s cultural and historical experiences. 

We return to Delhi, absorbing the memories and experiences garnered over the past week. Rest and rejuvenate as we prepare for the journey home. 

We will arrange your transfer to the Delhi airport for your flight, bidding you farewell with cherished memories and the essence of India imprinted on your soul, sparking a desire to return and explore the enchanting lands once more.