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Beyond the Golden Triangle with Journey to Shimla Add-on

From £2,598
Duration 14 Days
Departures from: Nov 2024 - Nov 2026
Book now
From £2,598
Duration 14 Days
Departures from: Nov 2024 - Nov 2026

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.

  • Classic Touring
  • All Breakfasts
  • Flight Choices

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

  • Discover Old Delhi on a cycle rickshaw
  • Sightseeing tour of New Delhi
  • Dawn visit to the Taj Mahal
  • Visit the Agra Fort and Itmad ud Daulah tomb
  • Explore the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri
  • 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
  • Enjoy a glass of lassi in Jaipur
  • Venture up to the hilltop Amber Fort
  • Shimla sightseeing tour
  • Chandigarh rock garden

Itinerary

Day 1 UK - Delhi

Your exciting adventure begins with a flight to Delhi.

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.

Meals included: L,D

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 stroll around the street bazaar of Chandni Chowk and admire the impressive marble domes of Jama Masjid Mosque. You’ll then climb aboard a rickshaw and ride through the city’s maze of crowded streets and bustling markets to see the spectacular sandstone exterior of the Red Fort.

Next, we’ll 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. A sightseeing tour will then 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 visit the soaring sandstone tower, Qutub Minar.

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

Meals included: B,D

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.

Meals included: B,D

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.

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 crocodiles, hyenas, jackals and more. Keep your fingers crossed for a sighting of the elusive tiger, or the even rarer leopard.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 7 Ranthambore - Dausa

This morning we’ll drive to our next hotel. We’ll have lunch when we arrive and then the afternoon is yours to spend at leisure. Perhaps you’ll head out and explore the surrounding area, or simply relax by the pool.

Later, we’re going to enjoy a barbecue dinner, complete with a bonfire, musicians and traditional folk dancers.

Meals included: B,L,D

Day 8 Dausa - Jaipur

As we take to the road this morning, we have the famous 'Pink City' of Jaipur in our sights. It’s the capital of Rajasthan and as we approach, we’ll see its fabulous pink and ochre-coloured buildings set amongst barren hills.

We'll 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.

You’ll then have time to browse the colourful ceramics and textiles in the Old Town's bustling markets before enjoying a glass of lassi. This traditional drink is made by blending water, yoghurt, spices and sometimes fruit.

Meals included: B,D

Day 9 Jaipur - Delhi

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.

Later, we’ll drive back to Delhi and dinner will be served at our hotel this evening

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 you'll stay for three nights.

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

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.

Meals included: B

Accommodation (as specified or similar)

Crowne Plaza Okhla

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.

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.

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

Hotel rooms are well-lit, spacious, and furnished with comfortable beds to ensure maximum comfort. Hotel has a 24-hour reception to be able to serve guests at all times.

Hotel rooms are well-lit, spacious, and furnished with comfortable beds to ensure maximum comfort. Hotel has a 24-hour reception to be able to serve 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Optional Excursions

Experience even more of your destination by adding one or more optional experiences to your holiday before you set off. Take a look below at the extra trips you can enjoy on this tour

India - Agra - Mohabbat The Taj Show

India - Agra - Mohabbat The Taj Show

This evening have the opportunity to take your seat for a performance of Mohabbat the Taj, a spectacular re-enactment of the life and love of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. The 80 minute show will leave you amazed by the spectacular costumes, lively songs, energetic dancing and the incredible set including the world’s largest replica of Taj Mahal in Makarana marble.
This evening have the opportunity to take your seat for a performance of Mohabbat the Taj, a spectacular re-enactment of the life and love of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. The 80 mi...

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India - Ranthambore Fort

India - Ranthambore Fort

On this excursion we will travel the short distance to Ranthambore Fort which lies within Ranthambore National Park and near to the city of Sawai Madhopur. Built in the 10th century the fort is home a huge amount of history and religious significance, as well as offering incredible views over the national park.
On this excursion we will travel the short distance to Ranthambore Fort which lies within Ranthambore National Park and near to the city of Sawai Madhopur. Built in the 10th centur...

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Read more

Further Information

Average group size of our tours

Group sizes vary between tours - we have an average group size of 27. We endeavour to make sure the size of the group has a positive impact on each trip and our guests almost always say that the group was one of the highlights of the trip!

Deposit information

When you book a holiday, you will be asked to pay a deposit, this will be made clear at the time of booking. In most cases we will charge the following deposit amount;

  • European Holidays - £200 Per person
  • Worldwide Holidays - £250 or 10% whichever is the greater
  • Ocean Cruises - £250 or 10% whichever is the greater

On some holidays we may charge a slightly higher deposit, to cover any costs we have to pay immediately to secure your booking with our suppliers. This will be made clear at the time of booking.

If you choose a tour that is within 84 days of departure you will need to pay the full balance when you book.

Our cancellation policy

If you decide to cancel your confirmed booking you must notify us (or your travel agent) in writing, as soon as possible. Since we incur costs in cancelling your arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below.

  • More than 75 days before departure - Loss of deposit only
  • 43 - 74 days - 50% of tour price
  • 29 - 42 days - 75% of tour price
  • 15 - 28 days - 90% of tour price
  • Day of Departure - 14 days - 100% of tour price

Our full cancellation policy can be found in our booking terms and conditions, section 8.

How do I find out Entry and Health Requirements for my holiday?

We have partnered with Sherpa, an on-line self service tool that allows you to search up-to-date information regarding travel entry requirements for all countries and also allows you to apply for eVisas or eTAs via their on-line portal. Just click on this link to find out more – Travel Requirements & Visa Service

You can also refer to the Foreign Travel Advice section on the gov.uk website: Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). Click on your destination and then click on 'Entry Requirements'. For Health Requirements, the Department of Health also offers travellers health advice on www.travelhealthpro.org.uk, click on country information to locate your destination.

It is important to remember that passport, visa and health requirements can change before departure; therefore, we recommend you regularly familiarise yourself with the latest requirements before you travel. If you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements, we are unable to accept any responsibility.

For some destinations, it is not always discernable that a visa is required for entry at the border.  For example, for some customers, to travel to the United States, an ESTA may be required. For Canada, an ETA and to India, an e-visa may be needed. Please do check your requirements to avoid any unnecessary cost and delays.

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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.

Reasons to book with Travelsphere

  • 60 years of touring
  • Expert direction & local flavours
  • Carefully-crafted holidays
  • A service you can count on
  • Book with confidence

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All Travelsphere holidays are financially protected via ATOL (flight-inclusive holidays) and financial insurance (non-flight packages). Additionally, all customer money is held in a Trust Fund, governed by independent Trustees. This means your money is 100% protected no matter what.