8 Day Golden Triangle with Ranthambore

Your exploration of India will commence at Old Delhi, the former citadel of the Mughal Empire during the 17th and 19th centuries. You will visit the magnificent Red Fort, constructed in 1648 and serving as the seat of the Mughal Empire. The fort’s imposing 1.24-mile-long red sandstone walls will leave you in awe.

Next, you will embark on a thrilling cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling alleys of Chandni Chowk. This experience will immerse you in the vibrant culture, past sacred temples, and historic dwellings adorned with captivating architecture. Your itinerary will also include a visit to the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque built by Shah Jahan in 1658. This architectural marvel is both a testament to Islamic artistry and a sacred place of worship.

Concluding your visit, you will pay your respects at Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. A humble black marble monument amidst lush greenery marks the solemn spot where Gandhi was laid to rest on the banks of the Yamuna River.

Afternoon: Following the Old Delhi tour, you will be transported to New Delhi, a regal capital constructed by the British. The distinction between Old and New Delhi lies in the division between the two capitals: Mughal and British. You will visit the Qutab Minar, a 234-foot sandstone Victory Tower erected in 1193. The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate, a 138-foot stone arch of triumph commemorating 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who sacrificed their lives in various conflicts worldwide. It houses an eternal flame in honor of the Unknown Soldier. Humayun’s Tomb, a beautiful Mughal red sandstone structure, will also be visited. Subsequently, you will traverse Lutyen’s New Delhi, which encompasses the Diplomatic enclave, numerous spectacular Victorian-era government buildings, Bangla Sahib Gurudwara (a magnificent temple dedicated to Sikhs), and the impressive and ornate Hindu Birla Temple. Your tour of New Delhi will culminate at Connaught Place, the primary shopping, business, and tourist hub of the city.

After breakfast, proceed to check out of your hotel and be driven to Agra (approximately four hours) via North India’s newest highway.

Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel.

Afternoon: You will visit the massive red sandstone Agra Fort which was built by the famous Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, primarily as a military structure. During Shah Jahan’s reign it was converted into a palace. It finally became a prison for Shah Jahan after his son came to power in 1658. The fort has numerous courtyards, private chambers and a marble mosque. On the opposite side of the Yamuna River is the exquisite Itmad-ud daulah built in 1628 by Mughal Emperor’s queen, Nur Jahan in memory of her father. The tomb is the first monument that was constructed entirely of marble inlaid in Pietra Dura.

Late afternoon: A sunset visit to the magnificent white marble mausoleum, one of the world’s seven wonders, the Taj Mahal, is a must-do experience for tourists worldwide. This exquisite monument, dedicated to the enduring love of Shah Jahan and his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, attracts visitors from distant corners of the globe year-round. Constructed between 1653 and 1675 AD, the Taj Mahal required the labor of 22,000 skilled craftsmen over a period of 22 years. The white marble is intricately inlaid with semi-precious stones in captivating patterns, a technique known as pietra dura. The symmetrical design of the Taj is further enhanced by minarets at each corner. The basement of the Taj houses the cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, serving as a testament to their enduring legacy.

Check-out of your hotel after breakfast and drive to Ranthambore. Enroute stop to visit the Chand Baori stepwell at Abhaneri. The Chand Baori is one of the oldest, deepest and largest baoris (stepwells) in Rajasthan. The oldest parts of the structure date back to the 8th century. This colossal step well has a depth of 20 meters, with 13 levels. Despite being so huge, the well still has delicate and intricate carvings which are a visual treat. Arrive at Ranthambore and check in to your resort. Surrounded by the Vindhya and Aravali hill ranges and located near the fringes of the Thar desert, Ranthambore National Park is one of the finest tiger reserves in India. It is a prime example of Project Tiger’s effort to conserve wildlife.

Enjoy the wildlife safaris' into the sanctuary early morning and late afternoon. Covering an area of 410 sq km, the park has a huge population of tigers. It is also a home to leopard, chital, nilgai, jackal, wild boar, hyena, sloth bear, jungle cat and a wide selection of birds like crested serpent eagle, paradise flycatchers and the more common painted stock. Ranthambore is also one of the most filmed reserves of the world as the tigers roam around fearlessly, used to being stared at by human beings. Dry deciduous dense forest, open bush land, lakes and rivers form a perfect picturesque combination to admire.

Enjoy another wildlife safari to the park for game viewing in the morning. Check out of your hotel in the late-morning and drive to Jaipur.

Afternoon: Arrive at Jaipur and check in to your hotel. Jaipur is the vibrant capital of Rajasthan also known as the 'Pink city'.

After breakfast drive 7 miles north of Jaipur to visit the Amber Fort and Palace. This was the ancient capital of Jaipur state. Mount your caparisoned elephant to ascend up (an option to use a jeep is available) to the main gate of the splendid Amber fort situated on a hillock overlooking a lake. The Fort, completed in the early 18th century, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Rajput rulers, a clan which was famous for its military heroism. In sharp contrast to the rugged exteriors of the soaring fort is the opulent ambience of the interiors, especially the Sheesh Mahal or the Hall of Mirrors which is a result of the intricate and delicate use of mirrors.

Afternoon: Continue your tour of Jaipur city; visit the City Palace Complex, a fine blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture consisting of courtyards, gardens and buildings. The royal family of Jaipur still resides in a part of the Palace. You will then visit the Jantar Mantar, the astronomical observatory. Enjoy your visit to the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds. Located in the heart of the old city’s bustling market place, the Hawa Mahal is a pink sandstone five storey building that has a fascinating façade of numerous intricately designed and embellished windows. It was originally built to enable the royal ladies to look at the bustling city without being seen.

Check out from hotel after breakfast and enjoy the scenic drive to Delhi through the fields, small towns and villages of Rajasthan. Admire the vibrant turbans and attire of men and women of Rajasthan.

Arrive at Delhi and board your international flight.
You can use the remaining few hours you have to do some last-minute sightseeing or shopping. We can make suggestions based on your interests. Your vehicle and driver stay with you until your (usually late evening) assisted check in at the airport.

Our services end at delhi airport.