Beyond the Golden Triangle

The world-famous Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Amber Fort are amongst the numerous highlights on this diverse tour, which also includes safaris at Ranthambore National Park and visits to the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur and bustling Delhi.

What's Included

• Return flights from Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic
• 8 nights Half board in 5-star hotels and lodges plus 1 night in flight
• 19 meals: 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 8 dinners
• Travelsphere Tour Manager and Local Guide
• Overseas transfers and other transportation
• Porterage

Day 1: UK – Delhi

Today you will depart on your flight to Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi

Today you arrive in Delhi, where you will stay overnight. A half-day tour here includes UNESCO-listed highlights such as the exquisite Humayun’s Tomb and the ancient Qutub Minar, a soaring tower of sandstone. Your tour continues with a drive along the ceremonial avenue, Raipath, past the imposing India Gate and Parliament House – both reminders of the city’s colonial past.

Day 3: Agra

A morning included sightseeing tour will introduce you to the 17th century walled city of Old Delhi. Delve into a maze of crowded narrow streets and thronging markets on a cycle rickshaw, see the spectacular exterior of the Red Fort and stroll through the fabled street bazaar of vibrant Chandni Chowk. Admire the impressive marble domes of Jama Masjid Mosque and visit Gandhi Smriti Museum, the location where Gandhi spent the last 144 days of his life and the place of his assassination. Later you will drive to Agra for a two-night stay.

Day 4: Agra

Today you’ll have an early start for one of the highlights of your holiday - an included dawn visit to the Taj Mahal. A visit to the red sandstone Agra Fort where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son has also been included. You’ll also see the white-marble Itmad ud Daulah tomb, the first monument in India built entirely from marble and also known as the ‘Baby Taj’.

This afternoon take a visit to the Sky Deck of the Gateway Taj Hotel, overlooking the Taj Mahal. Here, you’ll enjoy high tea while taking in spectacular views of this magnificent building, whose colours change as the sun begins to set. This evening there’s an optional performance of Mohabbat the Taj, a re-enactment of the life and love of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Colourful costumes, enchanting songs and energetic dancing delivers the perfect end to a magical day.

Day 5: Ranthambore

This morning you’ll transfer to the station for the train journey to Ranthambore National Park. En route you’ll visit the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri, built by an emperor in 1569 to celebrate the birth of his son. On arrival at the station, join the throng of travellers and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Local vendors sell spicy samosas and small boys lug huge silver kettles of chai. Sit back and enjoy the constantly changing scenery and engaging company of fellow passengers, an Indian rail journey is always a memorable experience. You will stay at Ranthambore for two nights.

Day 6: Ranthambore

You will have both morning and afternoon safaris today so that you have plenty of time to experience Ranthambore, which is considered to be the best game reserve in India. Thick forest and pretty waterfalls provide the perfect environment for over 300 species 
of birds. With the help of your Local Guide you may even spot the elusive tiger. Even if you don’t, there are many other residents of the park for you to see including crocodile, hyena, jackal and maybe the rarer leopard too.

Day 7: Jaipur

This morning your journey continues by road to the famous ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, where you will stay overnight. Sandstone buildings tinged with pink and ochre and set amongst barren hills will greet you as you arrive in the capital of Rajasthan. Get to know Jaipur on an included tour this afternoon. All the buildings here were to be painted pink by Maharaja’s decree. Explore the commanding City Palace, still the official residence of the Maharaja and discover Mughal treasures in the museum. Linger at the elaborate facade of the Palace of the Winds, from where ladies of the court could watch unseen, and seek out colourful ceramics and textiles in the bustling markets of the old town.

Day 8: Dausa

This morning you’ll take a short drive to the marvellous Amber Fort, a 17th century stronghold that commands a hilltop setting high above the parched desert and surrounding valley. Step inside and visit the eerie Temple of Kali, the jewel-like Palace of Mirrors and experience the enchanting Hall of Pleasures. Continue by road to your hotel for the evening, the 200-year-old Talabgaon Castle, a beautifully restored fort.

On arrival, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing with a cool drink in the beautiful gardens or perhaps you’ll choose to take a dip in the swimming pool. 
A barbecue dinner is included this evening, after which you can enjoy a performance of traditional dance.

Day 9: Delhi

Relax amidst the stunning surroundings of your hotel before an included lunch, or join our optional camel cart ride excursion. This afternoon you will continue by road to your hotel in Delhi-Gurgaon for an overnight stay. Gurgaon is a bustling satellite city of Delhi with great connections to the city.

Day 10: Delhi - UK

This morning you’ll transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. As you are travelling westwards arrival will be later the same day.