Beyond the Golden Triangle at Christmas with Shimla add on

Day 2 Delhi

When you arrive in Delhi, we will drive you to your comfortable hotel for lunch. Afterwards, you are free to relax and make the most of the hotel’s facilities. Maybe take a dip in the swimming pool or sip a refreshing drink at the bar – the choice is yours. We’ll get together later for a welcome drink before enjoying dinner at the hotel.

Day 3 Delhi - Agra

We’ll start our sightseeing in earnest today, beginning on foot in the 17th-century walled city of Old Delhi. We’ll admire the impressive marble domes of Jama Masjid Mosque. We’ll also step inside the poignant Gandhi Smriti Museum, located in the house where Gandhi spent the last 144 days of his life and the place of his assassination. And enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the fabled street bazaar, Chandni Chowk, and the walled city of Old Delhi. As we go, we'll delve into its maze of crowded streets and thronging markets, and see the spectacular exterior of the Red Fort.

Next, a sightseeing tour will introduce us to New Delhi, a spacious, imperial city created by the British in 1911. We'll drive through elegant boulevards to see the iconic India Gate and imposing Parliament House, both grand reminders of the city's colonial past. We'll also see Humayun's Tomb, which was built in 1570 and is said to have inspired the Taj Mahal, and Bangla Saheb Gurudwara - a Sikh Temple.

Later we’ll drive to Agra and have dinner at the hotel this evening.

Day 4 Agra

Get ready to experience one of the highlights of your holiday – a visit to the incredible Taj Mahal at sunrise. This magnificent mausoleum, built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz, is one of the world's most glorious sights. Watch in awe as the sun rises over its white marble walls and enjoy some leisure time to take in this magnificent monument's beauty.

After returning to the hotel for breakfast, we’ll head to the mighty Agra Fort, the palatial red-sandstone fortification where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son. Our sightseeing then takes us to the Itmad ud Daulah tomb, the first monument in India built entirely from marble. Known as the 'Baby Taj', we’ll admire its exquisitely carved marble lattice screens. Then it’s on to our final stop of the day, Mehtab Bagh. At this centuries-old garden complex, we’ll get a fabulous view of the Taj Mahal from the other side of the Yamuna River.

If you would like to enjoy an evening out, there's the option to watch a performance of Mohabbat the Taj, about Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife. With a spectacular set, colourful costumes, upbeat songs and dancing, it is the perfect end to your day.

Day 5 Agra - Ranthambore

Our first stop today is at the deserted, fortified city of Fatehpur Sikri. A fine example of Mughal architecture, its highlights include a huge mosque and an array of palaces and pavilions.

Later, you can sit back and enjoy the ever-changing scenery as we make our way to Ranthambore.

Day 6 Ranthambore

A thrilling day lies ahead, with not just one but two safaris in Ranthambore National Park, said to be the best game reserve in India. On morning and afternoon game drives we'll make our way through thick forest, where pretty waterfalls provide the perfect habitat for more than 300 species of birds. Our knowledgeable Local Guide will help you to spot other residents of the park, including crocodiles, hyenas, jackals and more. Keep your fingers crossed for a sighting of the elusive tiger, or the even rarer leopard.

Day 7 Ranthambore - Jaipur

This morning you could choose to join our optional excursion to Ranthambore Fort, with impressive views over the national park.

We'll travel to our next destination the city of Jaipur, where we stay at a heritage hotel, originally built as a nobleman's home in Rajput architecture style, offering a tranquil setting just a short distance from the bustle of the city.

This afternoon is yours to spend at leisure., perhaps you’ll head out to explore the surrounding area or simply relax by the pool or in the traditional courtyard.

Later, we’re going to enjoy a cultural evening of local dinner and entertainment.

Day 8 Jaipur

Today is the day we will explore the famous 'Pink City' of Jaipur. It’s the capital of Rajasthan and we’ll see its fabulous pink and ochre-coloured buildings set amongst barren hills.

Your day begins with a short drive to the marvellous Amber Fort, a sprawling 17th-century stronghold which sits on a hilltop overlooking the desert. We'll step inside to see its highlights, which include the eerie Temple of Kali and the enchanting Hall of Pleasures. You’ll also see the jewel-like Palace of Mirrors, a beautiful hall where the walls, ceilings and columns are completely covered in tiny pieces of sparkling glass.

We'll then get our bearings on a guided tour, which includes a visit to the City Palace, an impressive array of courtyards, gardens and regal buildings. The palace is also home to a museum that boasts a fine collection of Mughal treasures including paintings, carpets and silverware. Next, we’ll drive past the elaborate facade of the Palace of the Winds. This pyramid-shaped building is adorned with ornate lattice-covered windows where the ladies of the court could stand unseen, watching over the city.

Our tour will conclude with a brief orientation tour of Old Jaipur by The Pink City Rickshaw, a pioneering social enterprise run by and employing women. They offer travellers an eco-friendly, custom-designed rickshaw tour, providing an immersive cultural experience while promoting sustainable tourism.

You’ll then have time to browse the colourful ceramics and textiles in the Old Town's bustling markets.

Day 9 Jaipur - Delhi

Today we will have a morning at leisure to enjoy our heritage hotel or to explore even more. Later in the day we will return to Delhi for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 10 Shatabdi Express to Shimla

Early morning transfer to New Delhi Railway Station to board the Shatabdi Express for Kalka, where you change to the narrow gauge train to Shimla. On arrival, transfer to your hotel where you'll stay for three nights.

Day 11 Shimla

After breakfast there will be an included morning tour of Shimla visiting the Mall and the Vice Regal Lodge. Shimla, situated in northern India is known for its impressive architecture dating back from the colonial era. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day 12 Shimla

Today is free for you to relax and explore at your leisure. Shimla has some of the most beautiful sights including those found at the Tara Devi Temple.

Day 13 Shatabdi Express to Delhi

This morning travel to Chandigarh Railway Station where a tour of Chandigarh and a visit to the Rock Garden has been included. You will enjoy a meal in a local restaurant before transferring to the train station to board the Shatabdi Express for your return journey back to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 14 Delhi - UK

After breakfast, we'll drive you to the airport for your return flight to the UK. As you are travelling westwards, you will arrive later the same day.