Beyond the Golden Triangle with Journey to Shimla Add-on

From £2,798.00
Duration 14 Days
Departures from: Feb 2024 - Nov 2025
Book now
From £2,798.00
Duration 14 Days
Departures from: Feb 2024 - Nov 2025
Tour Overview

On this extended version of our Golden Triangle tour, indulge and delve deep in India's fascinating culture and history, Travel from Delhi to Agra, ticking off the world-famous Taj Mahal and Agra Fort and then onto safari in Ranthambore National Park to search for tigers. Enjoy a visit to the 'Pink City' of Jaipur and nearby Amber Fort. followed by an overnight stay in a restored 200-year-old fort for a touch of luxury. Then journey by train enjoying spectacular views as you make your way to Shimla in the foothill of the Himalayas for the final leg of this trip of a lifetime.

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Your Holiday Includes

  • Return flights from London
  • 12 nights  in 4 and 5-star hotels and lodges plus 1 night in flight
  • 29 meals: 12 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 12 dinners and welcome drink
  • Travelsphere Holiday Director and Specialist Local Guide
  • Overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage

 

Included Holiday Highlights

  • Tour of New Delhi
  • Discover Old Delhi on a cycle rickshaw
  • Dawn visit to the Taj Mahal
  • Agra Fort and Itmad ud Daulah tomb
  • The deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri
  • Train ride through scenic countryside
  • Search for tigers on a morning Ranthambore safari
  • Afternoon safari in Ranthambore
  • Traditional dance show and dinner at Talabgaon Castle
  • Visit the 'Pink City' of Jaipur
  • Try a lassi in Jaipur
  • Venture up to the hilltop Amber Fort
  • Shimla sightseeing tour
  • Chandigarh rock garden

 

Itinerary

Day 1 UK - Delhi

Today you will fly to Delhi.

Prior to you holiday, please ensure that you have printed off your onward flight information. This is because in all Indian airports you must be able to show your travel itinerary if asked.

Day 2 Delhi

On arrival in Delhi we will transfer you to your comfortable hotel, the rest of the day will be at the hotel for you to relax and enjoy the hotel's facilities. Meals included: L,D

Day 3 Delhi - Agra

We'll start our sightseeing in the 17th century walled city of Old Delhi, we'll explore by foot as we take a stroll through the fabled street bazaar, Chandni Chowk, and admire the impressive marble domes of Jama Masjid Mosque. We'll also visit Gandhi Smriti Museum, the location where Gandhi spent the last 144 days of his life and the place of his assassination. And enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the 17th century 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, we tour 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, which are grand reminders of the city's colonial past. We'll also see Humayun's Tomb, built in 1570 and said to have inspired the Taj Mahal and Bangla Saheb Gurudwara - a Sikh Temple.
Our day concludes with a drive to Agra.

Meals included: B,D

Day 4 Agra

Get ready to experience one of the highlights of your holiday today, a dawn visit to the incredible Taj Mahal. This magnificent mausoleum, built by the Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz, is one of the world's most glorious sights. We'll watch in awe as the sun rises over its white marble walls which are inlaid with semi-precious stones. We'll also head to nearby Mehtab Bagh, a centuries-old garden complex, for a fabulous view of this iconic masterpiece from the other side of the Yamuna River. Our next stop is at the red-sandstone Agra Fort, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son, then we'll see the Itmad ud Daulah tomb. This was the first monument in India to be built entirely from marble and is also known as the 'Baby Taj'. 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. Featuring colourful costumes, enchanting songs and energetic dancing, this is the perfect end to our day. Please note: The show is not available on May to July departures. Meals included: B,D

Day 5 Agra - Ranthambore

Today we're going to travel by train, quite an experience in India, but before we reach the station we'll visit the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri. At the railway station, stop to take in the vibrant atmosphere as you join the throng of travellers. You'll see vendors selling spicy samosas and small boys serving chai from huge silver kettles as you board the train. Once on board, sit back and enjoy the ever-changing scenery with your fellow travellers as you are taken to Ranthambore.

Meals included: B,D

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 crocodile, hyena, jackal and more. Keep your fingers crossed for a sighting of the elusive tiger, or the even rarer leopard too.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 7 Ranthambore - Dausa

Today we journey by road to our next hotel, which is the 200-year-old Talabgaon Castle, a beautifully restored fort offering us a truly unique experience. We'll have lunch on arrival and then you're free to relax and do just as you wish. Perhaps you'll sit in the lovely gardens with a cool drink, or maybe a dip in the swimming pool will prove too tempting to resist.

Later, we're going to get together to enjoy a barbecue dinner at the castle poolside, complete with bonfire, musicians and traditional folk dancers. The lavishly laid out buffet barbecue serves a combination of Indian and continental cuisine and you can enjoy a drink at the Peacock pool bar, all against the backdrop of the palace and its gardens - beautifully lit up and fit for royalty.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 8 Dausa - Jaipur

Today we've the famous 'Pink City' of Jaipur in our sights, which we'll reach by road. Views of sandstone buildings tinged with pink and ochre set amongst barren hills will greet us on arrival in the capital of Rajasthan. We'll get our bearings with an afternoon guided tour, which includes the commanding City Palace and the Mughal treasures in its museum. We'll also see the elaborate facade of the Palace of the Winds, from where ladies of the court could watch unseen. Before we head to our hotel, there will be time to browse the colourful ceramics and textiles in the Old Town's bustling markets.

Whilst in Jaipur you will also be served a glass of Lassi, a blend of water, yoghurt, spices and sometimes fruit. The drink, traditionally served in earthern pots to add a unique aroma, is topped with a thick layer of malai leaving you refreshed and surprisingly full!

Meals included: B,D

Day 9 Jaipur - Delhi

Your day begins with a short drive to the marvellous Amber Fort, a 17th century stronghold which sits on a hilltop overlooking the desert. We'll step inside to see the eerie Temple of Kali, the jewel-like Palace of Mirrors and the enchanting Hall of Pleasures. Later, we return to Delhi by road.

Meals included: B,D

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 three nights' accommodation on a half board has been reserved.

Meals included: B,L,D

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.

Meals included: B,D

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.

Meals included: B,D

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.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 14 Delhi - UK

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

Meals included: B

Accommodation (as specified or similar)

Crowne Plaza Okhala

The 4-star Crowne Plaza Okhla is centrally located in Delhi.

Hotel facilities include two restuarants, bar, spa and fitness centre. Bedrooms have private facilities, mini-bar, hairdryer and tea/coffee-making facilities.

Grand Mercure

The Grand Mercure Agra is a 5 star hotel inspired by the city's rich history, and overlooking the Taj Mahal. For our tours we feature rooms with Taj facing views for all of our guests! Features include a rooftop pool, a restaurant and bar.

Abhyaran Hotel

Our hotel proudly presents the remarkable Superior Rooms and Abhyaran Suites. We have 30 smartly appointed luxury rooms which are well-lit, spacious, and furnished with comfortable beds to ensure maximum comfort to our occupants. Our hotel has a 24-hour reception to be able to serve our guests at all times.

Talabgaon Castle

Talabgaon Castle is a 200 year old, stunningly resorted fort situated in rural Rajasthan. The gardens of Talabgaon Castle are lovely - a great place for an early morning stroll! The hotel has many stunning features such as the roof top terrace, the pool bar, castle library and polo bar.

Ramada Jaipur

The 4-star Ramada Hotel Jaipur is located in the heart of the 'Pink City'.

Hotel facilities include a choice of restaurants, bar, swimming pool, gym and spa. Bedrooms have private facilities, tea/coffee maker, TV and mini-bar.

ITC Welcomhotel Dwarka

The ITC Welcomehotel Dwarka is perfectly located for the airport and is in New Delhi. At the hotel there is a swimming pool, gym and lounge as well as two restaurants.

Oberoi Clarkes Hotel

Clarkes Hotel is a great property which has been rated as being in one of the premier locations in Shimla. There is an onsite restaurant as well as a bar. Guests can relax on the outdoor terrace area which has a great view of the surrounding area. Rooms are furnished with a flat screen TV and coffee/tea making facilities. A safety deposit box is available, as is the option of room service.

Vivanta by Taj Dwarka New Delhi

Vivanta by Taj Dwarka is a newly built hotel in Delhi. It is modern in style and features amenities such as a spa, steam room, whirlpool and outdoor swimming pool. Hotel also has 5 restaurants/bars. Rooms feature tea and coffee-making facilities and large TVs.

Prices shown are based on twin occupancy of a double or twin bedded room with private facilities unless otherwise stated. Single occupancy supplements will apply. Travelsphere have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the hotel images provided on this website and images of room types displayed may vary to those offered on your tour. Therefore due to the possibility of inadvertent errors we do not guarantee their accuracy. Accommodation, airlines used and flight times are subject to change and will be confirmed in your final documents.

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