Departure

Arrival in New Delhi – Upon arrival, we transfer to the elegant five-star Le Meridien Hotel for an overnight stay. After a brief rest, we set out to explore New Delhi, a city where colonial grandeur meets centuries of history.

Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1911, the heart of New Delhi is a masterpiece of urban planning, with broad, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings that echo the legacy of the British Raj. As we drive down the grand Rajpath, we pass the former Viceroy’s Palace – now the Presidential Residence – as well as the iconic India Gate and Parliament House.

Our journey into history continues with a visit to some of Delhi’s most significant landmarks, including the soaring Qutub Minar, India’s tallest stone-built tower, which dates back to 1199.

As evening falls, we return to the hotel for a delicious buffet dinner, the perfect way to unwind after a day of discovery. 

Old Delhi – This morning, we delve into the rich history of Old Delhi, beginning at Raj Ghat, the beautifully simple yet deeply moving memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Continuing on from here, we step into the spiritual serenity of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of Delhi’s most revered Sikh temples.
Next, we embark on an immersive walking tour guided by the inspiring young people of the Salaam Baalak Trust, a non-profit organization that provides education and support to Delhi’s street children. As we navigate the bustling lanes and vibrant markets of Old Delhi, these remarkable guides share captivating tales of the Mughal era alongside personal stories of life in the city today. 

To complete the experience, we hop aboard a traditional rickshaw, weaving through colourful bazaars where the air is rich with the aroma of exotic spices and sizzling street food. 
In the afternoon, we bid farewell to Delhi and embark on a scenic drive to Agra, arriving at the four-star Oberoi Trident hotel in time to relax before another unforgettable day of exploration. 

Taj Mahal – We rise early to witness one of the world’s most outstanding spectacles: the Taj Mahal at sunrise. As the first light of dawn bathes its flawless white marble in a golden glow and the morning mist lifts from the Yamuna River, the Taj Mahal appears to float, almost ethereal, above the surrounding landscape. This masterpiece of symmetry and craftsmanship, built as a monument to love, is a sight that lingers in the memory long after you’ve left its marble embrace.

 
From here, we continue to the mighty Agra Fort, an architectural marvel of red sandstone, where Mughal emperors once ruled in grandeur. Built in 1573, this vast citadel was more than just a fort, it was a walled palace of immense opulence, with towering gates, intricate courtyards, and panoramic views of the Taj Mahal in the distance. 
In the afternoon, we step into the serene Mehtab Bagh, or Moonlight Garden, a beautifully landscaped retreat offering stunning, alternative perspectives of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River. Photographers will delight in capturing its reflection in the water and the changing hues of its pristine marble. 

Next, we visit the exquisite tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah, often called the ‘Baby Taj’ for its delicate inlay work and jewel-like appearance. This precursor to the Taj Mahal, crafted from white marble, is a hidden gem of Mughal design. 

As the day winds, we indulge in traditional Mughal cuisine at a local restaurant, savouring flavours as rich as the history we’ve explored.

Fatehpur Sikri – This morning, we bid farewell to Agra and journey toward one of India’s most intriguing ghost cities: Fatehpur Sikri. Built in 1571 as Emperor Akbar’s grand imperial capital, this vast complex of palaces, courtyards, and intricately carved halls was mysteriously abandoned just 15 years later. Yet time has barely touched its stunning sandstone facades, and walking through its echoing corridors feels like stepping into a forgotten chapter of history.
Midday brings a delightful break at the Laxmi Vilas Palace in Bharatpur, where we enjoy a leisurely lunch in regal surroundings before heading to the railway station. Here, we board the Shatabdi Express, a comfortable, air-conditioned train that will whisk us towards one of India’s most celebrated wildlife reserves; Ranthambore National Park.

Once the private hunting ground of Rajasthan’s maharajas. Ranthambore’s 400-square-kilometres of rugged terrain, dense forests, and tranquil lakes now provide a vital sanctuary for an astonishing variety of wildlife. Most famous its population of extraordinary Bengal tigers, the park plays a crucial role in India’s Tiger Project, which has worked tireless to protect these magnificent creatures.

For the next two nights, we settle into the Ranthambore Regency, a welcoming, family-run retreat offering comfort and hospitality in the heart of the wild. With all meals included, we have time to relax, soak in the natural beauty, and anticipate the thrilling game drives ahead 

Ranthambore Game Drive – Rising before dawn, we set off on an early morning game drive, venturing deep into the heart of the Ranthambore National Park aboard specially designed, open-top canter vehicles. As the first light spills across the rugged landscape, the anticipation builds; this is the best place in India to catch a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger.

But Ranthambore is more than just tigers. This vast wilderness is home to over 300 species of birds, from the regal crested eagle to the striking painted stork and the ever-present wild peacocks. Keep your eyes peeled for sambar deer, the largest antelope in Asia, as well as wild board, marsh crocodiles, and the rare sloth bear. Near the park’s entrance, a mischievous troop of black-faced langur monkeys often provide an entertaining welcome.

By late morning, we return to our hotel with time to unwind before lunch. 

Later, the adventure continues in the afternoon as we embark on a second game drive, seizing another opportunity to witness Ranthambore’s remarkable wildlife in its natural habitat. With the expertise of a local naturalist, we gain deeper insight into the ecological importance of the tiger, learning how this apex predator plays a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance between prey and vegetation. The experience also includes a fascinating wildlife documentary, offering a closer look at conservation efforts and the ongoing challenges of protecting India’s big cats. As the sun sets over the jungle, we return for a well-earned dinner, reflecting on the day’s memorable encounters. 

Jaipur – After breakfast, we bid farewell to Ranthambore and journey north to the enchanting Pink City of Jaipur, a place where royal grandeur and vibrant culture blend seamlessly. 

Our afternoon exploration begins at one of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks, the Hawa Mahal – or Palace of Winds – with its entrancing honeycomb facade designed for royal ladies to observe the bustling streets below without being seen. From here, we delve into the Astronomical Observatory, an architectural marvel built in 1726, where enormous stone instruments have been measuring the heavens for centuries.

Continuing our journey through Jaipur’s regal past, we visit the City Palace, a stunning blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, still home to the present Maharaja of Jaipur. Within its grand courtyards and opulent halls, we’ll admire an extraordinary collection of royal costumes, intricate carpets, historic paintings, and a formidable armoury.

For the next two nights, we settle into the elegant four-star Marriott Jaipur, offering a perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm, ensuring a restful stay in this captivating city. 
Personalise your holiday –
Jaipur at night by Rickshaw 

Price: From £19pp 

The “Pink City Rickshaw Co.” is a unique innovative initiative of ACCESS Development Services, a not for profit organization and aims to provide a new aspirational employment opportunity to 200 women from low income households in Jaipur. Experience the medieval mystique of the Jaipur city by the eco-friendly auto rickshaws and enjoy this amazing and completely off-beat experience of Jaipur at night. The beautiful, iconic structures are gorgeously lit up after sunset and you will be treated to splendid views of the city. 

Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking. 

Amber Fort – This morning, prepare for yet another unforgettable experience as we visit one of Rajasthan’s most impressive landmarks, the Amber Fort. Perched dramatically on a rugged hillside just outside Jaipur, this grand fortress is a masterpiece of Rajput architecture, blending imposing ramparts with intricate artistic details.

Our guided exploration takes us deep into its ornate courtyards, grand halls, and hidden chambers, uncovering the stories of royal intrigue and opulence. We’ll step into the secluded quarters once reserved for the Maharaja’s wives and concubines, offering a glimpse into the lavish lives of Jaipur’s nobility. One of the most mesmerising sights is the Sheesh Mahal, or Hall of Mirrors, where thousands of tiny convex mirrors shimmer like a starlit sky, creating a dazzling spectacle as they catch and reflect the light.

A visit to Amber Fort is truly a journey into Rajasthan’s regal past, where history and architectural brilliance come together in a spectacular fashion. 

Rajasthan – Venturing deeper into rural Rajasthan, we travel north through a landscape dotted with quaint villages and bustling market towns, eventually reaching the historic Sekhawati region and the charming village of Alsisar.

Once a thriving stop on India’s Silk Road, Alsisar was home to prosperous merchants who amassed great wealth and expressed their success through the construction of opulent havelis; grand mansions adorned with elaborate frescoes. These intricate paintings, depicting mythology, daily life, and colonial influences, have earned Sekhawati the title of ‘the world’s largest open-air art gallery’. While many of these havelis now stand in quiet grandeur, the former royal residence of Alsisar’s kings has been meticulously restored into a stunning heritage hotel, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of regal splendour.

This afternoon, we’ll take a guided stroll through the village, admiring some of the finest hand-painted facades, stepping into the past as we uncover the stories behind these architectural masterpieces. Along the way, we’ll soak in the rhythm of local life, watching artisans at work and villagers going about their day in this hidden gem of Rajasthan. 

New Delhi – After a leisurely breakfast, we make our way back to Delhi for an overnight stay at the luxurious Le Meridien Hotel. Enjoy a delightful, included dinner this evening. 

Train to Shimla – We begin our day with a smooth morning ride aboard the express train from Delhi, heading north towards Kalka for a four-hour adventure. Our seats are in the comfortable, air-conditioned chair-class carriages, perfect for enjoying the views through the large windows.

At Kalka, we make the switch to the charming Shimla narrow-gauge ‘toy’ train for the final leg of our journey. Though the carriages are smaller and lack air conditioning, the beautiful scenery more than makes up for it. This railway, inaugurated by the Viceroy, Lord Curzon, in 1903, takes us through an awe-inspiring landscape, crossing 800 bridges and passing through 102 tunnels over its 96-kilometre route. A packed lunch is included, ensuring we stay fuelled for the journey.

Arriving at Shimla’s quaint station in the late afternoon, we are transferred to the luxurious Oberoi Cecil Hotel for a three-night stay. This five-star gem, with its stunning Burmese Teak floors, vast atrium lobby, and excellent amenities – like an indoor pool and an Asian spa – promises a relaxing retreat. Each air-conditioned room boasts elegant furnishings and views of the surrounding teak forests, making this one of the finest hotels in India. 

Shimla – Today, we embark on a journey through Shimla’s rich colonial past. One of the standout attractions is the Viceregal Lodge, an imposing structure designed in the grand Scottish Baronial style. Built to accommodate the Viceroy and his staff during their six-month stay in the town, the Lodge is surrounded by lush botanical gardens. While some of the interior remains off-limits, the areas open to the public offer a fascinating glimpse into the life of the British elite during the final years of the Raj. The photograph collection, particularly from the late Victorian era, provides a poignant connection to this bygone era.

Afterward, we take a leisurely stroll along Shimla’s Mall Road, a charming pedestrian-only promenade that offers a delightful mix of history and shopping. From the iconic Scandal Point and Christ Church to the mock-Tudor post office, Gaiety Theatre, and Town Hall, the Mall is a visual feast. Known for its vibrant markets and eclectic shops, Shimla is particularly celebrated for its handmade pashmina shawls, making it the perfect place to pick up a timeless souvenir. 

Free Day in Shimla – Today, enjoy a leisurely day in Shimla, where the pace slows down and the options are endless. Unwind at the hotel’s luxurious pool or indulge in a rejuvenation treatment at the spa, or perhaps take another stroll along Mall Road, soaking up the atmosphere while hunting for last-minute treasures in the vibrant local markets. If you’re feeling adventurous, several short treks in the surrounding hills offer a refreshing way to connect with nature.

As the evening sets in, a lavish buffet dinner awaits, offering a perfect conclusion to your day of relaxation and discovery. 
Personalise your holiday –
Fagu Valley visit with light lunch 

Price: From £39pp 

Fagu is one of the highest points in Shimla and from this vantage point we get views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as views over Shimla. After our visit we will enjoy a light lunch in the afternoon at the Wood Ville Palace heritage hotel, which is the former summer residence of the Raja Rana of Jubbal, a pre-independence kingdom of the Shimla Hill States.

Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking. 

Train to Delhi – As our time in the charming hills of Shimla comes to an end, we bid farewell to the Oberoi Cecil Hotel and begin our journey back to Delhi. We descend the winding roads by car, soaking in the last glimpses of the stunning mountain landscapes, before reaching Chandigarh station to board our train. After a scenic and comfortable rise, we return to Delhi for one final night at the luxurious Vivanta New Delhi Dwarka Delhi, where we can unwind and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of our journey. 

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