Hello, Delhi!
Welcome to India! Hotel check-in available mid-afternoon.
Delhi Delights
Today's sightseeing starts with an orientation to see the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Then, visit Jama Masjid and take a [LF] rickshaw ride through a local bazaar. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of free time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner that includes a cooking demonstration and talk on Indian cuisine with a local chef. (B,L,D)
LOCAL FAVOURITE
MARKET HIGH Hop on a rickshaw and explore Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar. Ancient alleyways are lined with quaint shops selling a variety of goods and souvenirs-from silver and saris to spices and electronics.
Remembrance & Worship
This morning, visit Qutub Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, visit Humayun's Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in for the evening. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
A RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE As Delhi's largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship), Gurudwara Bangla Sahib has religious significance and splendid architecture. The grand edifice is built in the Sikh architectural style, while this magnificent house of worship is made using stunning white marble below its commanding golden dome.
Moghul Monuments
Start your day with a sunrise visit to the captivating Taj Mahal. After a bit of down time, travel to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LOVE REMEMBERED Explore the extravagant Taj Mahal, a marble monument to love. Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth.
By Road & Rail
Today, stop at Fatehpur Sikri (the City of Victory), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century it was the capital of the Mughal Empire for merely 10 years before it was completely abandoned due to the lack of adequate water. After lunch in Bharatpur, board a train bound for Sawai Madhopur, gateway to Ranthambore National Park, one of the best places in India to spot the elusive Bengal tiger! (B,L,D)
The Game is Afoot
Today, explore Ranthambore National Park on morning and afternoon game drives in an open-air safari vehicle. Between game drives, enjoy free time to relax. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE In addition to Bengal tigers, Ranthambore National Park is home to leopard, sambar deer, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, striped hyena, and more. Take the opportunity to spot them all on guided game drives today.
JAUNT TO JAIPUR
Today, travel to Jaipur. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and known as the "Pink City" ever since. After lunch, visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar, consisting of 19 astronomical instruments used for measuring time and dates back to 1728. Next, visit the City Palace Museum, once the royal residence and now showcases a collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes from the past. (B,L)
JEWELS OF JAIPUR
Today, visit the amazing Amber Fort in the morning. Lastly, visit a [LF] local vocational training program for children. Tonight, enjoy a home-hosted dinner with an Indian noble family, followed by a sari-and turban-tying demonstration. (B,D)
LOCAL FAVOURITE
CHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE Ladli is a training program teaching orphaned children valuable skills to keep them off the streets. Here, learn about the project while interacting with the children and helping them practice their English skills.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
FORMIDABLE FORTRESS Visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the "Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan," built entirely of white marble and red sandstone. This fortress-palace has a somber exterior that hides a richly ornate interior of royal apartments, including an alabaster Hall of Victory and a superb Chamber of Mirrors.
Departure Prep
Fly back to Delhi this morning and prepare for your journey home. (B)
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (B)