Taj, Tigers and Mumbai
Embrace India in this exhilarating tour that will take you from the colourful streets of Delhi, to the Taj Mahal and the Pink City of Jaipur. Go tiger-spotting in Ranthambore National Park and end your trip in the scintillating Mumbai where you'll visit the inspiration behind blockbuster movie Slumdog Millionaire - the Dharavi Slums.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Delhi
Day 1 Delhi
Saturday. On arrival in Delhi you are met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. The rest of today is free to explore India’s capital at leisure before meeting the group and guide at the hotel at 18:00 for a Welcome meeting.
For those able to arrive very early today or the day prior, why not get off the beaten track and explore Old Delhi with us on our optional 'Backstreets of Delhi' add-on tour. You will get to relish the taste of various street foods, from savoury to sweet. Along the way, visit Khari Baoli, the largest spice market in India and the colourful Bazar Matia Mahal, located opposite the majestic Jama Masjid Mosque. The tour will combine a mixture of metro, electric rickshaw and walking to get around.
Day 2 Old & New Delhi
Day 2 Old & New Delhi
Delhi - Agra. This morning we enjoy a packed day of sightseeing in Old and New Delhi. Check out the UNESCO-listed Humayun’s Tomb and Jama Masjid - India’s oldest and largest mosque. Visit the iconic Sikh temple Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and its community kitchen feeding 25,000-30,000 people daily. We also enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride around the Chandni Chowk bazaar and explore New Delhi. Walk down the Rajpath, formerly known as the ‘King’s Way’ and see the famous India Gate monument.
This afternoon, we will drive to Agra. After checking into the hotel, enjoy a group Namaste dinner for departures in 2024. Please note there is no dinner included for departures in 2025.
Day 3 Taj Mahal
Day 3 Taj Mahal
This morning, we'll visit the legendary Taj Mahal, India's most renowned monument. Constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a tribute to his beloved wife, this iconic white marble mausoleum is an unparalleled symbol of love and devotion, standing as one of the most extraordinary architectural masterpieces in the world. Be sure to capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience with plenty of photos!
Following our visit to the Taj Mahal, we’ll journey to the impressive Agra Fort. This massive red sandstone fortress houses some of India's most exquisite Mughal buildings, all safeguarded behind its towering fortified walls. It’s a site rich with history and grandeur, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Mughal era.
Day 4 Karauli or Dholpur
Day 4 Karauli or Dholpur
Agra - Karauli/Dholpur. This morning we journey to either Karauli or Dholpur stopping for lunch en route.
In Karauli, we will stay in the beautiful Palace Bhanwar Vilas. An eclectic melding of both Oriental and Art Deco architecture, the heritage-listed hotel was built in 1938 as a family home of the Maharaja of Jaipur. In Dholpur, we will stay at the magnificent Raj Niwas Palace, which is known for its red sandstone, traditional Rajisthani architecture, and European-style ceramics. It's said that this heritage-listed hotel was built by the Maharaja to welcome HRH Albert Edward, who visited in 1876.
Spend the afternoon at your leisure exploring the grounds, perhaps check out the vintage cars or take a dip in the swimming pools. This evening, you can also opt to attend the evening Aarti (prayer).
Please note: Lunch will be included in 2024. Please note there is no lunch included for departures in 2025, instead you will have time to enjoy lunch at your own expense.
Day 5 Jaipur
Day 5 Jaipur
Karauli/Dholpur - Jaipur. This morning we hit the road towards the vibrant UNESCO listed Pink City of Jaipur. On arrival, we will spend the afternoon on a tour of the illustrious City Palace and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Space Observatory, which features 19 separate astrological instruments.
Day 6 Jaipur sightseeing
Day 6 Jaipur sightseeing
Jaipur. Enjoy an unforgettable experience early this morning with an optional balloon ride over Jaipur. Sail with the wind over the surrounding region and pass above hill-top forts and regal palaces. Later, enjoy a jeep ride to Amber Fort for a guided tour and visit a cotton weaving house for an authentic demonstration of fabric dyeing.
Days 7-8 Ranthambore National Park
Days 7-8 Ranthambore National Park
Jaipur - Ranthambore. Today we take a 3-4 hour drive to Ranthambore National Park, one of the Project Tiger reserves since 1973. The park plays an important role in the conservation of the iconic Bengal Tiger. We spend two days in the park and enjoy two included game drives in search of the endangered tigers, which can sometimes be seen pacing along the paths or resting in the sun. With two visits into the reserve, we have a great chance of spotting these incredible animals. Other wildlife in the park includes leopards, sloth bears, sambar, hyenas and crocodiles.
Please note: 2024 departures will include three game drives. For departures in 2025, there will be two game drives included and instead you will enjoy more free time and the option to book more game drives locally.
Day 9 Flight to Mumbai
Day 9 Flight to Mumbai
Ranthambore - Mumbai. Today, we will make the 3-4 hour return drive to Jaipur Airport. Once in Jaipur, you will take your onwards flight to Mumbai, India's largest city. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 10 Mumbai
Day 10 Mumbai
Mumbai. Today, we will explore what Mumbai has to offer with a city tour covering some of its' most interesting and unique attractions.
First, we will visit Dadar Flower Market, one of the largest flower markets in India. Not only will you enjoy the beauty, colours and fragrance of the flowers, but you will also witness the hustle and bustle of the market and immerse yourself in local culture.
Afterwards, we will visit Dhobi Ghat, a massive open-air laundromat where thousands of dhobis (washermen) gather daily to wash clothes from all over the city.
We will then take a thrilling short local train ride to our next stop. This is an opportuntiy to see how locals travel in Mumbai and experience the mix of thrill and chaos of local trains. We will stop for lunch at a local restaurant before our final stop.
Our last stop on the city tour is a visit to the Dharavi Slums, one of the largest slums in Asia. This will be an eye-opening experience, as more than a million people live here, in cramped and unsanitary conditions. However, Dharavi is also a hub of entrepreneurship and creativity. Various industries, such as leather, pottery and recycling operate from this area. During our guided tour, you will learn about Dharavi's unique history, culture, challenges and opportunities.
Day 11 Free Time
Day 11 Free Time
Mumbai. Today is a day at leisure, for you to independently explore the vibrant and diverse city of Mumbai. Why not consider our half-day 'Mumbai City Tour' that covers the lively Colaba Area, visits the famous Gateway of India and introduces you to the Prince of Wales Museum and its rich collection of art, archeology and natural history.
Or you can opt to join our 'Elephanta Caves' tour, where you will take a boat ride to Elephanta Island and explore the ancient rock-cut architecture and sculptures depicting Hindu mythology and legends.
Consider ending your day with a 'Mumbai Bollywood Tour' where you'll learn about the evolution of Indian film, watch a Bollywood dance performance, watch live feature film being shot and end your evening with a Bollywood film screening at the famous Regal Theatre.
Day 12 Mumbai
Day 12 Mumbai
Wednesday. Our Indian adventure comes to an end today. A departure transfer is included today for departures in 2024. If you are travelling in 2025 this can be booked for an additional supplement if required.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Set in the heart of one of the most popular neighbourhoods of Delhi, the Park Inn by Radisson offers a comfortable stay in India’s bustling capital. With contemporary guestrooms which feature en suite bathrooms, high speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning and flat screen TVs. Enjoy al fresco dining and drinks at the 24-hour RBG Bar & Grill, which serves tasty traditional Indian fare and international cuisine. After a busy day of sightseeing, unwind with a swim in the hotel's sparkling pool or work up a sweat in the fitness centre. Ideally located just 20 minutes from the airport and a short walk from a metro station, it's easy to reach popular sites such as the Lotus Temple, India Gate and Connaught Place.
The stylish Royale Regent hotel offers views of the magnificent Taj Mahal from its rooftop pool, so guests can gaze at this World wonder while sipping on a cocktail and retreating from the hustle and bustle of the city. Each comfortable air-conditioned room features a minibar with tea and coffee making facilities, satellite TV as well as excellent en-suite facilities. Guests can also enjoy an array of flavours in the onsite garden or mutli-cuisine restaurant.
Experience the best of Agra's offerings at Royale Sarovar Portico, located just a 10-minute drive from the iconic Taj Mahal. Indulge in rejuvenating massages or pampering manicures and pedicures. Enjoy delectable meals at Hibiscus, where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served. Unwind in the outdoor pool, socialize at the bar/lounge, or stay active at the fitness center. With free Wi-Fi throughout the property, this upscale property offers massage services, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center for a fulfilling stay.
Built in 1938, this stunning property is the residence of the Maharaja (181st in the Royal Dynasty) and Maharani of Karauli. Both the architecture and furniture have been designed in fitting with colonial styles and the property offers a fantastic insight into the history and elegance of a bygone era. The property offers deluxe rooms and luxury suites, each including a range of modern amenities such as a mini bar, a well-appointed ensuite and a plush king-sized bed. In the evenings, guests can tuck into an array of regional specialties as well as international cuisine in the hotel's restaurant.
With vibrant history and a rich heritage, Dholpur Palace also known as Raj Niwas Palace, is a mesmerizing journey back in time. Once home to generations of Royals, this converted palace still reflects the magnificence of the Rajasthani architecture of that era. Guest rooms offer a refreshing mix of Indian heritage and modern facilities including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and a mini bar. Set in 13 acres of garden, the Palace grounds are full of peacock and bird life that nip over from the National Chambal Sanctuary nearby.
Made of pink and red sandstone, the beautiful heritage-style Mandawa Haveli is a fine example of typical Rajasthani architecture. All rooms are well appointed with intricately carved wooden beds and king-size royal portraits, with modern amenities such as free WiFi and ensuite bathrooms. Spend an evening dining on continental, Indian or Rajasthani cuisine on the outdoor terrace or request a private, candlelit dinner on the rooftop under a star-studded sky. Well located in the heart of Jaipur city on Sansar Chandra Road, this hotel is just a few minute’s drive from the Palace of the Winds.
Radisson Hotel Jaipur City Centre is the perfect base for travelers touring India's famed Golden Triangle. Located centrally in Jaipur, the hotel is close to various forts, palaces and bazaars that the Pink City is renowned for. All guest rooms offer air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a fridge, kettle, a desk, seating areas and free Wi-Fi. The hotel offers a satisfying continental breakfast buffet at Mosiac, one of four on-site restaurants. Additionally, boasts a business center, a gym and spa, steam room and a relaxing rooftop pool where guests are free to unwind.
Set amongst well-manicured gardens, the elegant Ranthambore Heritage Haveli is a beautiful boutique hotel located close to Ranthambhore National Park, in the village of Khilchipur. The comfortable guest rooms are well appointed with king-sized beds, large TVs and rain showers. The haveli also benefits from a multi-cuisine restaurant, complimentary Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool which is ideal for refreshing dip after a day of wildlife spotting.
It's always a memorable stay at The Fariyas in South Mumbai. Each guest room offers a blend of classic decor, infused with modern sophistication and magnificent views of the Arabian sea. There is WiFi in each room, as well as a mini bar, room service, air-conditioning, and a flatscreen TV. There are two restaurants located at the hotel - one fine dining and one poolside. There is also a bar, fitness centre, wedding and meeting venue, and a roof-top swimming pool that guests can take advantage of.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
Mumbai Half Day City Tour
Experience the vibrant culture and history of Mumbai on a half-day city tour that covers the Colaba Area, a lively neighbourhood with colonial architecture and street markets. Visit the iconic Gateway of India, a monumental arch that overlooks the Arabian Sea and commemorates the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911.
Mumbai Elephanta Caves Tour
Enjoy a half-day tour of the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the rock-cut architecture and sculptures of ancient India.
Mumbai Bollywood Tour
India is one of the largest film producers in the world, producing an average of 1000 films a year. In fact, since the first talking films or 'talkies' were introduced in 1931, India has produced over 67,000 films in more than 30 languages. This tour will take you on a journey through India's booming film industry and is a must for film-junkies and Bollywood lovers alike.
Backstreets of Delhi
Explore the vibrant and colourful streets of Old Delhi on this walking tour that takes you to some of the most famous and delicious spots in the city. This tour is the perfect way to experience the authentic, diverse cuisine and culture of Old Delhi.
Mumbai Airport Departure Transfer (per vehicle / max 2 persons)
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