India’s Golden Triangle, incl. Ranthambore Safari & Goa

Depart for India on this trip of a lifetime to the Golden Triangle and in search of the elusive Tiger in Ranthambore National Park.

We have arrived in Delhi! We meet our local guide in the airport and transfer to our hotel based in Delhi. 

In the afternoon (pending our flight times this excursion may be the following day) we discover the wonder of the Qutab Minar; a soaring 73m high tower of victory, built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom.

Let's soak up the atmosphere and enjoy dinner with our fellow travellers.

Evening meals are included every night in India 8 nights in your hotel, 1-night cooking demonstration in Jaipur with dinner included and 3 lunch (one at a  local restaurant). Your Goa extension is on half board basis, breakfast and dinner.

After breakfast we experience the sights and sounds of bustling Old Delhi, beginning with a cycle rickshaw ride through the busy and colourful market of Chandni Chowk. After, we drive past the 17th Century Red Fort and then visit Raj Ghat, the memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi. Here we can see the eternal flame burning at the spot of his cremation. Next, we venture past the Jama Masjid Mosque (viewed from the outside) and visit the Bangla Sikh Temple that gives us an insight to this religion.  After we drive past the British era bungalows, government offices, Presidential Palace and India Gate,  and ending the city tour with a visit to the beautiful Humayun's tomb, which is often said to be the inspiration for the Taj Mahal.

After our Delhi highlights tour we make our way by coach to one of the jewels of India the "Pink City" of Jaipur. 

The transfer will take approximately six and a half hours approximately (270km) with some comfort stops along the way.

We have arrived in Jaipur. Let's relax after our days adventure from Delhi to Jaipur.

We spend the next three nights here in Jaipur.

During our stay in Jaipur, the Diwali Festival of Light will take place. Diwali is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated in autumn every year. The festival spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness. Included special activities to celebrate Diwali, including fireworks, flower work decoration & cultural folk dance. This will take place on 29th October 2027.

Uncover the splendour of Jaipur on our full-day tour! On our tour we discover Jaipur's history and fall in love with the enchanting Amber Fort, perched atop a hill with # views of Maota Lake. We take in the intricate Rajput architecture, which is beautifully reflected in the shimmering waters below.

After we savour the flavours of Jaipur with  lunch at a local restaurant. Then, take a leisurely walking tour through the charming village of Amber, where the vibrant local culture comes to life. Engage with friendly locals and soak in the unique atmosphere of this historic destination.

After our day experiencing some of Jaipur's highlights we return to our hotel and unwind for the rest of the evening.

During our stay in Jaipur, the Diwali Festival of Light will take place 29th October 2027. Diwali is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated in autumn every year. The festival spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness. Included special activities to celebrate Diwali, including fireworks, flower work decoration & cultural folk dance. 

Traffic may be busier than usual at this time, adding a lively atmosphere as families travel. A relaxed, go with the flow approach will make the journey all the more enjoyable.

Let's get together and embark on a delightful morning adventure in Jaipur! We explore the enchanting City Palace, once the Maharaja's residence, part of the palace is still used by the Royal family, and now a fascinating museum. Discover the grandeur of the Armoury Museum, with blunderbusses, flintlocks, swords, daggers and more.

Marvel at the awe-inspiring Jantar Mantar, the world's largest stone observatory, featuring an impressive sundial, a unique experience. After we drive past the iconic Hawa Mahal, or the 'Palace of Winds' offering a good photo opportunity of this iconic image of India. To add a touch of local charm, enjoy a lively cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling bazaars of Old Jaipur town. Join us for a morning filled with history, culture, and the jewels of Jaipur!

Later in the evening we experience a flavourful evening adventure, as we visit a local family for a cookery demonstration. Delve into the art of making local Indian dishes and bread making. Following the engaging session, we relish a delightful dinner, savouring the local flavours. Join us for an evening filled with culinary exploration and shared moments around the table a perfect way to finish our stay in Jaipur.

This morning we depart Jaipur and embark on a scenic journey to Ranthambore today, with the drive lasting approximately four and a half hours, covering 175 kilometers. Along the way we will enjoy some brief breaks, before arriving to our destination of Ranthambore.

Let's check in and enjoy some lunch. We make the most of our leisurely afternoon, soaking up our new surroundings.

Make sure to charge up the camera and polish off the binoculars in anticipation for tomorrow’s game drive experience.

Please note:

Mobile phones are not permitted in Ranthambore National Park.
This mandatory rule applies to all safaris and includes taking photographs, recording videos or any active use of mobile phones. The restriction is in place to reduce noise and disturbance to wildlife, as this can cause stress and disrupt natural behaviour. This is now becoming standard across India's national parks.

Cameras are permitted.

It's time to embark on an exciting adventure as we explore Ranthambore National Park in pursuit of the elusive Indian Bengal Tiger, the true king of the jungle. Ranthambore is home to approximately 69 tigers and one of the healthiest populations among India's national parks.

Once a former hunting ground for the Jaipur's Maharajas, Ranthambore has now transformed into one of India's major wildlife tourist attractions, and recognisable from many National Geographic documentaries. As we drive through the sanctuary, keep your eyes peeled for free-roaming wildlife that can be hiding in the reserve, including Chital (Indian deer), Wild Boar, Peafowl, and the Langur (monkey). With luck on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of a sloth bear or majestic tiger, a truly incredible experience. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this captivating park, a testament to the enchanting wonders of wildlife. The drives take time and patience and unlike an African safari with more abundant animals.

This afternoon presents another opportunity to look for the elusive Tiger if you have not yet spotted one in the captivating Ranthambore National Park. 

After our adventure, we enjoy the evening to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Should we have a small group under 10 people, we may operate a shared safari vehicle and not a private Travel Department safari excursion in Ranthambore.

We depart Ranthambore by coach and transfer to Agra home to the beautiful Taj Mahal. Our journey today will take approximately six and a half hours. En route, we explore the abandoned red sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri on a guided tour. This city a creation of Emperor Akbar often dubbed as the "city of brightness" and also known as the ghost city! Immerse yourself in the historical allure of this fascinating site before we continue our journey to Agra.

We have arrived in Agra! Let's get settled in to our hotel in the evening and rest after today's journey to Agra. Tomorrow will be an early start to see the world-famous Taj Mahal.

Let's experience more of India's jewels with an early morning journey to witness the iconic symbol of love, the "Taj Mahal." Arriving just around sunrise, we can capture stunning photos of this timeless monument and one of India's most iconic images!

Following this enchanting experience, we  return to our hotel for breakfast. Next, we delve into a guided tour of the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India's premier Mughal forts. Dating back to the 11th century, this red stone-fortified castle holds historical significance, having witnessed the events of invasions, battles, and the India Rebellion of 1857.

Please note the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays. This excursion may change to a Sunset excursion instead.

The day is not over! Let's gather together as we enjoy one of India's liquid gold, a relaxing cup of tea as we take in the beautiful view of the Taj Mahal in the distance. Time to sit back, relax and soak up the atmosphere.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you opt to delve deeper into Agra's attractions, indulge in some final souvenir shopping to capture the essence of India, or simply unwind at your hotel, enjoy the rest of this free time as you wish.

This morning we depart Agra by coach and transfer to Delhi Airport, the drive will take approximately five hours (230km). We say goodbye to the rest of our group and check in at Delhi Airport for our flights to Goa.

We have arrived in next destination Goa! We transfer to our hotel where we will stay for the next four nights on a half board basis.

Relax and unpack and enjoy Goa time where life moves at an easy pace. We can spend our days on palm-lined beaches, enjoy long lunches by the sea and watch gentle sunsets with our feet in the sand. South Goa in particular feels calm and unhurried, with quieter beaches and a laid-back atmosphere that is ideal for unwinding.

 *Please note that your extension in Goa is based on an individual rather than a group format.

Your flights tickets and timings will be given to you locally by your guide for Delhi to Goa.

We meet our guide and we venture back in time as we explore Velha Goa, also known as Old Goa, once the former capital and the historic heart of the region. On this half day guided tour, we discover the city’s rich past and the lasting Portuguese influence seen in its architecture and culture.

We visit two of Goa’s most important churches, starting with the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the relics of St Francis Xavier. We then pass by the impressive Se Cathedral, one of the largest and oldest churches in India.

Our tour continues to Panaji, Goa’s colourful capital. Here, we enjoy a gentle walk through the Latin Quarter, known for its elegant old mansions, and stop at the Immaculate Conception Church, set in the heart of the city.

After the tour, the rest of the day is free to relax or explore more of Goa at your own pace.

Today, we are free to explore Goa at our own pace. Those looking to unwind can relax on one of Goa’s beautiful beaches, enjoying the soft sand, gentle sea breeze and laid-back atmosphere.

For anyone keen to explore, Goa offers a wonderful mix of experiences. We can discover ancient temples and historic churches, admire colourful Portuguese-era architecture or simply wander through charming towns and villages. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way, with Goa’s scenery and character making it easy to capture special moments.

Goa is a true blend of cultures, history and flavours, and today is all about enjoying it our way, whether that means relaxing by the sea or exploring more of this vibrant destination.

Today is our final day at leisure in Goa, giving us time to enjoy some last-minute shopping or pick up souvenirs to take home. Goa is well known for its fragrant spices, which make lovely gifts and a perfect reminder of our time here.

If we prefer a slower pace, we can simply relax with a cup of tea, take in the surroundings and watch the world go by. It is a lovely way to enjoy our final moments by the beach and soak up the easy-going charm of this beautiful part of India.

Today we say farewell with fond memories of our journey through the Golden Triangle of India, and Goa - the southern jewel  of India. Transfer from our hotel to Goa Airport for our return flights home.