Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Delhi,
On arrival in Delhi, India’s capital, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, get to know your Great Rail Journeys Tour Escort and fellow travellers during a Welcome Dinner.
Day 2: Delhi
Today you will explore Old and New Delhi, India’s vibrant metropolis blends medieval, colonial and modern architecture. Visit Jama Masjid, a 17th-century mosque, India’s largest, before setting out on a rickshaw ride. Continue to New Delhi to visit Humayun’s Tomb. Thought to have inspired the magnificent Taj Mahal, the World Heritage-listed tomb perfectly combines elements of Persian and Mughal architecture in its design. Explore the wide leafy avenues, stop at Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Gandhi, admire India Gate and the 13th-century Qutab Minar, a World Heritage-listed monument and the world’s tallest brick minaret.
Day 3: Delhi, Agra
Transfer to the station where you’ll board India’s first semi high speed train, the Gatimaan Express to Agra. Once in Agra, embark on a sightseeing tour of the World Heritage-listed Agra Fort. One of the city’s most historic sites, the fort has served as both a military point and a royal residence in the past. Continue to the iconic Taj Mahal. The structure took over 22 years to build and is a wonder to behold. Its glittering white marble domes inspire awe, and almost seem to change colours throughout the day depending on the position of the sun.
Day 4: Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Ranthambore National Park
Transfer from Agra to Ranthambore National Park, stopping en route at the abandoned ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri, a World Heritage-site for a guided tour. This town to the west of Agra was once known as the City of Victory. Built in the 16th-century, Fatehpur Sikri is home to a number of impressive monuments and temples. Enjoy lunch at Laxmi Vilas Palace Bharatpur before boarding the Shatabdi Express train for the last leg of your trip to Ranthambore National Park. Dinner is at your hotel.
Day 5: Ranthambore National Park
Today, search for the elusive Bengal tiger on guided morning and afternoon game drives through Ranthambore National Park. Ranthambore is also home to many more unique animals including leopards, sloth bears and striped hyenas. Enjoy an evening talk by a local naturalist about the park and its diverse wildlife.
Day 6: Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur
Spend the morning at your leisure. After lunch, depart by coach to the picturesque and historic city of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan.
Day 7: Jaipur
This morning is dedicated to an in-depth exploration of Jaipur. Begin with a guided tour of Amber Fort. The striking architecture is a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. Its exterior contrasts with the interior with many of the rooms elaborately painted with decadent mirrors and precious stones. Enjoy time at your leisure for lunch before jumping right back into your sightseeing. Visit sites including the City Palace and the World Heritage – listed 18th-century Jantar Mantar Astronomical Observatory, and drive by Jaipur’s most distinctive landmark, the Hawa Mahal ‘Palace of the Winds’.
Day 8: Jaipur, Mumbai
Transfer to the airport for your included flight to Mumbai, set on India’s west coast beside the Arabian Sea. You’ll be transferred to your hotel before observing a cooking demonstration, introducing you to the rich and vibrant food culture of the city.
Day 9: Mumbai
Rise early for a Mumbai by dawn walking tour under the beautiful morning light. Visit the fishing docks of Colaba, see the colonial architecture of DN Road, experience the bustling environment of Crawford Market, explore the fascinating neighbourhoods of Byculla and Dadar, and admire the colours of Mahalaxmi Dhobhi Ghat, the world’s largest open-air laundry. Return to your hotel for breakfast and spend the rest of the morning at your leisure before taking an afternoon sightseeing tour of Mumbai icons including the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal, a 19th-century World Heritage listed railway station and Mani Bhavan, Gandhi’s former home and now a museum. Enjoy a delicious Farewell Dinner at your hotel.
Day 10: Depart Mumbai
After breakfast, transfer to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport where your journey ends.
