India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure

Our adventure begins in Delhi, a thrumming city full of architectural masterpieces such as as the Red Fort, India Gate and Jama Masjid (the largest mosque in India). Delhi is one of the three cities that comprise the Golden Triangle. The day is free for you to relax or explore the sites (an optional sightseeing trip can be organised). Around 6pm, say namaste to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. Your tour leader then ensures a big welcome by arranging a group dinner at a local restaurant where you can try a few of the renowned dishes of northern India. Want more time in Delhi? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Engage with Delhi in a meaningful way that benefits local communities, embarking on an immersive off-the-grid walking tour of Old Delhi led by true experts – former street children. Wander through lively thoroughfares and bustling alleyways rarely visited by typical tourists. The walking tour culminates at the majestic Jama Masjid, the grand Mughal-era mosque commissioned by Shah Jahan. In the afternoon, our exploration continues with a traditional sightseeing tour of New Delhi as we drive (three to four hours in total) past historic colonial landmarks, such as Rashtrapati Bhawan, Parliament House, and India Gate—a poignant memorial dedicated to soldiers of the First World War. Later, visit the exquisite UNESCO-listed Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning Mughal mausoleum crafted by Emperor Humayun’s widow, Hamida Banu Begam.

Say goodbye to Delhi after breakfast and head to the glorious 15th-century Neemrana Fort-Palace, a sprawling resort that extends over nine palace wings and our home for tonight. The complex is much more than a hotel; steeped in over 500 years of history, it has hanging gardens, pools with views over the hillsides, and dromedaries (Arabian camels) that can take you on an unforgettable ride around the area (optional activity). As the sun sets over the Aravalli Hills, enjoy the magical atmosphere as hundreds of lights sparkle across the resort.

This morning, we leave the palatial surroundings of the Neemrana Fort-Palace and drive (approximately three to four hours) to the 18th-century city of Jaipur. In the afternoon, journey through broad pink avenues of sandstone with a local tour leader to explore the colourful bazaars of Jaipur. Next, enjoy a foodie adventure with our tour leader, feasting on delicious local snacks and street food. Sample mouth-watering Rajasthani snacks and delightful treats. We later proceed to the home of a local family for a cooking demonstration. They will happily share their stories and culture, as you learn the secrets behind a few traditional local cuisines, which is followed by dinner with the family. Upgrade to a deluxe room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Set out on a full day (two to three hours in the vehicle) of sightseeing in Jaipur after breakfast. We begin by ascending to Amer Fort, a majestic hilltop stronghold constructed by the Kachwaha dynasty under Man Singh’s rule, which rises above a lake a few miles from the main city. This fortress once served as the Kachwaha dynasty’s seat before their capital relocated to Jaipur. Next, delve into the architectural marvel of the City Palace, a fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal styles and the ancestral residence of the Kachwaha Rajput clan. Our tour continues to the Jantar Mantar, an ancient solar observatory housing impressive astronomical instruments that remain remarkably accurate. As we drive past the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), marvel at its intricate pink sandstone facade designed as a discreet viewing area for the royal women during street festivities. We conclude the day by exploring the vibrant local market within Jaipur’s historic walled city, where you can discover handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani delights. Upgrade to a deluxe room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Depart Jaipur as we set off towards Ranthambore National Park (approximately a four to five-hour drive through the villages of rural India). Along the way, stop to admire Chand Baori, a magnificent ancient stepwell in Rajasthan renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance –it’s one of the largest and deepest stepwells in the world. Upon reaching Ranthambore, settle into our hotel, adjacent to the national park and perfectly located for our two game drives tomorrow. Upgrade to your own villa today – speak to your sales representative for more details

We jump into shared 4x4s to explore Ranthambore National Park today. Once a royal hunting ground, the reserve was set up by Project Tiger in 1973, a government-backed conservation scheme, and is now home to nearly 90 tigers, plus plenty of other wildlife, including wild boars, langurs, crocodiles and more than 300 bird species. To increase our chances of spotting the elusive tiger, we have two game drives today, one in the morning and another in the afternoon, with each taking three to four hours. Each vehicle is also joined by a Forest Guard, who are part of a national park initiative to generate employment for the nearby villages. They are skilled spotters and trackers so, though their English is sometimes very limited, they greatly improve the experience. Upgrade to your own villa today – speak to your sales representative for more details Occasionally, the game drive timings or zones may be adjusted depending on government restrictions and changes in national park zonal opening/closing times. You may be in a vehicle without the leader depending on the group size.