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Witness the captivating contrasts of the iconic Golden Triangle and the serene beaches of the south on this outstanding journey through India.
Admire the atmospheric capital city, exploring Old Delhi by rickshaw and New Delhi on a tour, and witness 'Poetry in White Marble' while visiting Agra's Taj Mahal and famous fort.
Visit the Chand Baori stepwell in Abhaneri, spend two days searching for animals in the wilderness of Ranthambore and explore Jaipur's pink architecture, before rounding off your exciting holiday with a tranquil stay on Goa's sun-kissed Arabian coast.
What’s included
Your journey to the ancient cities and majestic landscapes of India begins today as you meet the Tour Manager and travel group at London Heathrow, ready for our evening flight to India. We take our seats on the plane and can begin to dream of the immeasurable culture, complex flavours and incredible sights ahead as we fly overnight.
Your holiday ahead explores many sides of this nation. From the bustling city of Delhi to the wilds of Ranthambore National Park and the beautiful beaches lining the southwest coast, there is much to look forward to.
As our plane touches down this morning, we transfer to our five-star hotel in the heart of South Delhi. After checking in for two nights, there's some free time to unwind.
Should you wish to start exploring instead, Delhi's fascinating cityscape has a captivating blend of old and new that opens the door to meaningful explorations. Our hotel is a short distance from the ruins of a 14th-century Tughlaq fortress, or for a more modern site, there's the remarkable Baha'i temple, constructed in the 1980s, which resembles a lotus flower.
However you choose to spend your day, we reconvene at the hotel this evening for our first dinner in India.
Founded in 1648 by Shah Jahan, Delhi has many spectacular sights which we uncover today on two unforgettable guided tours. Our tour starts in Old Delhi with a visit to the 17th-century Jama Masjid mosque - the largest mosque in India. Afterwards, we ride through the stalls of Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk bazaars aboard a traditional rickshaw, passing the Red Fort and viewing the Gandhi memorial Raj Ghat as we weave through the city.
There's free time to lunch before we continue the day with a sightseeing tour of New Delhi's wide avenues and colonial architecture. New Delhi's ceremonial centre, Kartavya Path, contains India Gate, which commemorates Indian soldiers killed during World War One. At the other end is Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of India's president. After visiting the 16th-century tomb of Mughal emperor Humayun, our tour ends at the Gandhi Smriti Museum. 'Father of the Nation' Mahatma Gandhi spent his final days here, and we learn about his life through informative artefacts and personal effects.
We return to our hotel in time for dinner.
With an early start this morning, we transfer to the train station to take our AC Chair Class seats on the Gatimaan Express, bound for Agra for a day of highlights.
On arrival, we head straight to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World - the Taj Mahal. This UNESCO World Heritage mausoleum was built by emperor Shah Jahan to honour his wife Mumtaz Mahal and stands as a monument to undying love and the pinnacle of Mughal architecture.
After a guided tour of the iconic monument and its superb gardens, we check in to our hotel, where there is time to relax before we visit the imposing red sandstone Agra Fort. The centrepiece of this historic complex is the Musamman Burj, an octagonal tower where Shah Jahan spent the final eight years of his life imprisoned in view of the Taj Mahal. We also see exquisite specimens of Mughal architecture, including the Moti Masjid - a white marble mosque, before returning to our hotel for dinner.
Leaving Agra for rural India this morning, we board a comfortable coach and begin our journey south into Rajasthan. Watch as scenes of small villages and arid terrain pass by our windows as we drive towards Abhaneri, pausing for lunch at Laxmi Vilas enroute.
Abhaneri - originally known as the 'City of Brightness' - sits peacefully these days, but was once ruled by the Chahaman dynasty. Here, we visit the Chand Baori, or Moon Well, one of the oldest and deepest step wells in India. A marvel of ancient engineering and striking design, this innovative way of sourcing water during the region's hot summers dates back to the 8th century. The site also contains a historic palace and adjoins the Harshat Mata Temple.
After a guided tour of the site and its astounding features, we rejoin our coach and finish our route to our hotel at the edge of Ranthambore National Park. There's some time to settle into your room before we dine in the hotel's restaurant.
The morning is yours to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and relax in the tranquil surroundings of our hotel. Ahead of lunch, a naturalist guest speaker joins us to discuss Ranthambore National Park and the animals found within it - including the park's most elusive creatures, Bengal tigers.
Afterwards, a coach transfer takes us to the park, where we set out for a highlight of our holiday - an afternoon safari. Climbing aboard open-topped safari vehicles called 'canters', we embark on a wildlife drive into this fascinating wilderness. Declared a Project Tiger Reserve in 1973, it is possible to see a magnificent Bengal tiger basking in the sun or prowling their domain. Of course, the park is also home to many other incredible species that make our safari memorable, including leopards, hyenas, caracals, crocodiles, mongooses, cobras, pythons and jackals.
We return to our hotel at the of the afternoon with free time before we reconvene for dinner in the on-site restaurant.
Get ready for a different perspective on Ranthambore as we set out on an early-morning safari. Guided by a local naturalist who is familiar with the animals' movements, we have a good chance of spotting a tiger. Other small animals and birds are also more active under the golden morning light.
Following our drive, we return to our hotel for breakfast, and then you're free to enjoy a leisurely morning, perhaps by the pool. After lunch, we board our coach and travel deeper into Rajasthan to Jaipur, arriving this evening in time for dinner at our hotel.
The stunning hues of the 'Pink City' date to the 19th century. As the citizens prepared for the visit of the Prince of Wales in 1876, Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II decided to paint the city in shades of pink, the colour of hospitality. The prince, who later became King Edward VII, named Jaipur the 'Pink City', and the title has remained. One year later, the maharaja passed a law stating that all future buildings should be pink.
Setting out after breakfast, we travel to the Amber Fort, believed to have been built for the Rajput maharajas around 1600. As we near the fort, we board Jeeps for the final journey to the hilltop entrance. This UNESCO-listed palace complex first appears almost as a mirage on top of the Aravalli Hills. Exploring the palace's striking rooms and ornamental Charbagh garden, set against a backdrop of the ancient mountain range, it's easy to be spellbound by Rajasthan's history.
Following some free time for lunch, our sightseeing continues in the afternoon with a visit to the 17th-century City Palace, which blends Mughal and Rajput architecture, and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory. We also see one of Jaipur's most renowned sights, the Palace of the Winds, with its façade of pink and yellow sandstone. Five storeys of intricate latticework, dotted with 953 small windows, lend a honeycomb effect that originally allowed cool air to flow into the palace, making the interior a more appealing place during summer.
Returning to our hotel, we dine together in the restaurant.
Having seen some of India's most impressive cities and iconic sites, our journey pivots to the more relaxing side of the nation this morning as we transfer to Jaipur's airport to fly to Goa.
Located on India's southwest coast, this city has been influenced by many dynasties and rulers over its centuries of occupation, including the Portuguese during Goa's golden age between 1575 and 1625. This region did not receive statehood until 1987, and since then, Goa has become a premier destination on the Arabian Sea, awash in history and surrounded by stunning beaches.
As our plane touches down, a coach transfer takes us into the city for a sightseeing tour of Old Goa. Look upon the Museum of Christian Art and famous churches, such as the 16th-century UNESCO-listed Basilica of Bom Jesus, before we stop for lunch at one of the region's Portuguese houses.
Our tour continues on foot with a walk through the Panjim market and Fontainhas, the colourful Latin quarter, and then we proceed to our beachfront hotel to check in for three nights and have dinner.
With a full free day spanning ahead of us, you are welcome to enjoy Goa's offerings at your own pace. Our luxurious hotel is spread over 30 acres, with beautiful gardens and serene sitting areas with breathtaking views. You might like to experience authentic Indian wellness at the on-site spa, or grab one of the sunloungers that frame the outdoor pool.
A highlight of our stay here is the direct access to Vainguinim Beach, one of the least crowded and most secluded beaches in North Goa. In addition to being an exceptional place for relaxation, this is a perfect place for shelling, walking along the rocks and admiring the turquoise waters of the Arabian.
There are several other beaches in the region, including Siridao Beach, framed by lush palm trees. This beach is a magnificent place to search for rare seashells and offers access to nearby caves, which you can explore.
However you choose to spend your day, dinner is served at the hotel.
Enjoy a slow breakfast and another day to take at your own pace on India's beautiful coast. If you had your fill of the beach yesterday, today you could see a different side of the water while riding the free passenger ferry to Chorao Island.
The ferry weaves through the mangroves of the Mandovi river, towards the 'Island of Noblemen'. Keep watch for otters frolicking in the water and birds flying through the trees. On arrival on the island, you could wander among the historic Portuguese churches and colonial homes or visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
Elsewhere in the Goa region, you could soak up the history while visiting the hilltop Maruit Temple overlooking the Fountainhas district or venture a bit further to the 16th-century Reis Magos Fort. The Museum of Goa, which tells Goa's long and fascinating story through art, is also within reach.
This evening, we reconvene at our hotel for our final dinner in India.
India's rich culture and layered history have been revealed in unforgettable ways on this journey from the capital city of Delhi to the tranquil beaches of Goa.
After touring both the New and Old sides of Delhi, we saw the majestic Taj Mahal and Agra Fort and the 8th-century Moon Well before arriving in Ranthambore, home to Ranthambore National Park. Two wildlife-spotting safaris offered a chance to spot Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. From here, we enjoyed the beauty of the 'Pink City' and its candy-hued palaces and then flew to Goa, a haven for beach relaxation.
This morning, your holiday draws to a close as we transfer to Goa's airport for a short internal flight to Mumbai. Arriving in Mumbai, we board our onwards flight to London Heathrow, where your discovery of India concludes on arrival this evening.
Our Classic range is what we're known for. Enjoy curated moments with plenty of inclusions. Centrally located hotels, premium travel options and engaging group tours with a seasoned expert are included. You'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. *Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.
If your tour is marked as Small Group, enjoy a more immersive holiday experience, exploring with a like-minded group of just 22 travellers on average.
| 20 October 2027 | From £2,699 |
| 10 November 2027 | From £2,799 |
All prices are per person and assume full occupancy of the room.
Please always refer to the website for up-to-date prices and availability.
Running 116 miles from Delhi to Agra in a journey that takes just over an hour and a half, this was India's first semi-high-speed train. The Gatimaan Express first operated in early 2016. On board, you can enjoy traditional Indian cuisine served by dedicated train hostesses, as you relax in fully air-conditioned carriages, and enjoy the passing Indian scenery. There is also complimentary Wi-Fi, and an app that provides access to movies, music and news on board.
This 5-Star hotel is located just down the road from the world-acclaimed Taj Mahal and within easy reach of many of Agra's best attractions. The hotel boasts excellent facilities, including a swimming pool, games room, beauty salon, two restaurants and a rooftop bar with views of the Taj Mahal. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safety deposit box, ironing equipment, minibar, tea & coffee-making facilities, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.
This 5-Star hotel is located in the south of India's capital and includes two restaurants which serve cuisine from all around the world, a coffee bar, and an entire lounge dedicated to desserts. There's also a fitness centre, an outdoor pool and a spa on site which provides a range of wellness treatments. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, tea & coffee-making facilities and hairdryer.
Located near the city's airport and the jungle of the Jhalana State Park, this contemporary 4-Star hotel offers a modern interpretation of traditional Rajasthani style. A rooftop pool and bar area is a great place to admire views of the city and mountains with a sundowner, while local and international cuisines can be savoured at the on-site restaurant. Guest rooms are stylish and spacious, and come equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, sofa and tea & coffee-making facilities.
Standing on the foundations of one of Ranthambore's very first hotels, this 4-Star accommodation has been thoughtfully reimagined into one of the region's finest luxury palace resorts, while still preserving the soul of its heritage in every detail. Onsite amenities include a spa offering a range of treatments and four distinct dining and bar experiences. Air-conditioned guest rooms are rooted in Rajasthani heritage and surrounded by nature, fully equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, tea & coffee-making facilities and hairdryer.
Overlooking Vainguinim Beach in Goa, the 5-Star Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage is a resort-style property nestled on 30 lush acres. In addition to direct beach access, there's a spacious outdoor pool with a poolside bar, a spa offering authentic Indian wellness treatments, a fitness centre and a range of dining options, including a beachfront barbecue restaurant and a fine-dining establishment. Air-conditioned guest rooms have outstanding views of the gardens or the sea and come equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, minibar, tea & coffee-making facilities, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.
We offer a selection of upgrades and 'add-ons' designed to help you make the most of your holiday - and make it even easier!
Flight upgrades are available. For information regarding the types of upgrades offered by the airlines we use, call our expert team for details.
Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.
We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.
Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.
We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.
For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.