11 Day Golden Triangle With Varanasi & Ranthambore Wildlife

Welcome to Delhi International Airport! Upon arrival, our team will assist you and transfer you to your pre-booked hotel by a private chauffeur-driven vehicle. New Delhi is the capital of India, has been inhabited continuously since the 6th century BCE and has served as the capital of multiple kingdoms and empires throughout its history. In the 1920s, it was redesigned by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker. Today, Delhi is a bustling metropolis that serves as a vibrant hub of international arts and culture and a thriving commercial centre.

Please note that the standard check-in time at hotels is 2 pm. As most international flights arrive in the evening or night, we do not have any sightseeing activities planned for the first day of the trip. However, if your flight arrives early in the day and you don't require time to recuperate from international travel, we can arrange some sightseeing on the first day of the trip at an additional charge.

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Start your exploration of India with Old Delhi, it is known for its hustle and bustle, energy and colour, local shops and bazaars, and twists and turns of narrow lanes between soaring buildings and leaning houses. A rickshaw ride through the busy streets of Chandni Chowk offers a truly unique experience. Along the way, enjoy a tasting of local delicacies, giving you an authentic flavour of Old Delhi’s rich culinary heritage. 

Visit the magnificent Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, and drive past the iconic Red Fort. Continue to Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi — a serene space that stands in striking contrast to the lively old city.

Amongst other prominent attractions to cover on the same day is the golden-domed Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a famous Sikh temple, which has a huge kitchen where the langar (free food for anyone who wants it) is prepared for thousands of people every day. Volunteers mostly staff it, and you can go in and look around or even help out.

Visit the inspiring Mughal monument, Humayun’s Tomb - UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the first garden-tomb in the country, constructed in 1570. Later, zip around the Connaught Place shopping centre and be mesmerised by the fast-paced and upscale lifestyle. Take a look at the India Gate and other princely buildings, including Rashtrapati Bhavan, to admire the architectural grandeur of modern Delhi.

Experiences/Services Included on this day:

• All monument entrance fees
• Still camera charges (non-professional)
• Rickshaw ride experience in Old Delhi
• Local delicacy tasting experience in Chandni Chowk market
• Robe/Wrap rental & Shoe-keeping charges at Jama mosque
• Dedicated English-speaking expert guide for personalised insights
• Private chauffeur-driven vehicle for seamless travel

Travel to Varanasi by flight. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.

Varanasi, also known as Benaras, is considered one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, situated on the sacred banks of the Ganges river. According to legend, Varanasi is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, who brought the celestial Ganga river to earth, making it a holy site. It has been a destination for pilgrims for centuries and is regarded as one of the seven sacred cities in India. Thousands of devotees visit Varanasi to bathe in the Ganges, which is believed to cleanse them of their sins. It is also considered a place where cremation leads to salvation. The city's rich history, art, and traditions are reflected in its vibrant ghats, and it is also a significant site for Buddhism, as Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon, is just 12 km away.

• AFTERNOON: TOUR OF OLD CITY

Explore India’s most sacred city for Hindu’s, which is the oldest living city in the world. During the visit to the Old city you will share space with cows, scooters etc. and walk through the narrow alleys where every street corner has a roadside shrine or temple and vendors selling garlands, incense sticks and other items used in worship.

INCLUDED: Monument entrance fees, Rickshaw ride, personal English-speaking guide, & private Chauffeur-driven vehicle.

• MORNING: BOAT RIDE ON GANGES AT SUNRISE

The best way to experience the life in Varanasi is to tour the Ganges in a country boat at sunrise as early morning life in this city revolves around the Ghats. You will see Pilgrims, yogis and mystics flock to the ghats, to take a cleansing dip in India's holiest river, practice yoga, meditate, or washing clothes and vessels. Return to your hotel to breakfast and rest.

INCLUDED: Country boat ride, personal English-speaking guide & private Chauffeur-driven vehicle.

• AFTERNOON: SARNATH TOUR

Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon in 500 BC, and the precise location is commemorated by the Dhamekh Stupa. Nestled within the Archaeological Park, you will explore the remnants of the modest monastery where Buddha resided during his visits and walk along the path he used for meditation. Following a visit to the exceptional museum showcasing sculptures unearthed from the park, proceed to the relatively recent Buddhist temple adorned with murals by a Japanese artist depicting significant moments from Buddha's life.

INCLUDED: Monument entrance fees, personal English-speaking guide, & private Chauffeur-driven vehicle.

• EVENING: AARTI CEREMONY ON GANGES

Visit the Ghats (River Front) and witness Oil lamp Aarti Pooja (prayer) performed by the priest on the banks of the river.

INCLUDED: RIckshaw ride, personal English-speaking guide & private Chauffeur-driven vehicle

Morning transer to the airport by a private chauffeur driven car to board flight.

Drive to the love city of Agra by a private chauffeur-driven vehicle. Agra, the capital of the Mughal Empire during the 16th and 17th centuries, boasts three UNESCO world heritage sites that serve as legacies from that period: the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri.

Visit the iconic Taj Mahal, the legendary 17th-century Mughal masterpiece and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, reached by a short horse-drawn carriage or battery operated van ride. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved queen, this magnificent white marble mausoleum is complemented by expansive gardens, grand audience halls, and elegant private chambers.

Continue to the Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, a majestic red sandstone fortress built by Emperor Akbar. Renowned for its architectural brilliance and grandeur, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a symbol of power and resilience. Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, the fort houses several remarkable structures, including Macchi Bhawan, Shah Jahani Mahal, Khas Mahal, Mina Masjid, Nagina Masjid, and the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience).

Visit Itmad-ud-Daulah, a beautiful Mughal mausoleum famed for its intricate pietra dura inlay work and delicate marble lattice screens. Often referred to as the “Baby Taj,” this jewel-like monument is set amidst serene gardens and graceful outbuildings. 

Experiences/Services Included on this day:

• All monument entrance fees
• Still camera charges (non-professional)
• Decorated Horse carriage or battery-operated van ride to the Taj Mahal
• Dedicated English-speaking expert guide for personalised insights
• Private chauffeur-driven vehicle for seamless travel
• Professional photograph of you at the Taj Mahal, beautifully framed as a souvenir gift

Enjoy a stunning sunrise view of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, a serene Mughal garden set across the Yamuna River, followed by a short walking tour of Katchpura Village for an authentic glimpse into local life and traditions. 

Later, visit the historic ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable architecture, featuring highlights such as Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, Tomb of Salim Chishti, Ibadat Khana, Mariam-uz-Zamani’s Palace, Naubat Khana, Birbal’s House, and Panch Mahal.

Experiences/Services Included on this day:

• All monument entrance fees
• Still camera charges (non-professional)
• Heritage walking tour of Katchpura Village
• Battery-operated vehicle ride for last-mile access to the monument
• Dedicated English-speaking expert guide for personalised insights
• Private chauffeur-driven vehicle for seamless travel

Drive to Ranthambore by a private chauffeur-driven vehicle.

Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, was a private hunting ground for the Royal Family. Encompassing an area of 392 square kilometres, this strikingly magnificent landscape flourishing with open grasslands, deciduous forest and valleys is home to Indian leopard, sloth bear, mugger crocodile, wild boar, striped hyena, rhesus, southern plains grey langur, a variety of reptiles, birds and plants.

Enjoy two shared jungle safaris in the Ranthambore national park, organised by the Forest Department. Each safari lasts approximately 3 to 3.5 hours and operates as per the fixed schedule set by the authorities. Safaris are conducted in either 6-seater jeeps (with two rows accommodating three passengers each) or 18-seater canters, and are accompanied by an experienced forest naturalist guide. Vehicle type is subject to availability at the time of booking.

Please note: If you prefer a more exclusive experience, private jeep safaris can be arranged on request at time of booking, subject to availability and at an additional cost.

Experiences/Services Included on this day:

• All Forest entrance fees
• Still camera charges (non-professional) - **Mobile Phones not allowed**
• Two Jungle safaris by Jeep (shared)
• Dedicated English-speaking forest naturalist guide for personalised insights
• Private chauffeur-driven vehicle for seamless travel

Visit the historic Ranthambore Fort, nestled within Ranthambore National Park, a remarkable structure that has witnessed centuries of Rajasthan’s rich history. Dating back to the 10th century CE, the fort was later used by the Maharajas of Jaipur as a royal hunting retreat in their former hunting grounds. Perched approximately 700 metres above the surrounding forests, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the park. The fort is also home to one of India’s oldest temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, built in the 13th century, which continues to attract devotees from across the country. Visitors should note that reaching the fort involves climbing around 300 steps, often in the presence of monkeys, so caution is advised.

Experiences/Services Included on this day:

• All monument entrance fees
• Still camera charges (non-professional)
• Jeep ride to visit Ranthambore Fort
• Dedicated English-speaking expert guide for personalised insights
• Private chauffeur-driven vehicle for seamless travel

Drive to Jaipur by a private chauffeur-driven vehicle.

Jaipur, Rajasthan\'s renowned walled capital city, is also known as the \"Pink City.\" This nickname originates from the city painted pink in 1876 as a symbol of the locals\' warm welcome to the visit of Queen Victoria of England and the Prince of Wales.

Jaipur, Rajasthan's renowned walled capital city, is also known as the "Pink City." This nickname originates from the city painted pink in 1876 as a symbol of the locals' warm welcome to the visit of Queen Victoria of England and the Prince of Wales.

Today spend day in Jaipur exploring the impressive forts, majestic castles, vibrant local bazaars, local souvenirs and experience real India.

The day starts with an elephant ride to the Amer Fort for the Hall of Public Audience, the Palace of Mirrors and other important attractions. Reach early to avoid the huge crowd at the fort. If you don't like to experience an Elephant ride, then a jeep can be arrnanged to get up there on the hill fort.

From here, head to the City Palace and appreciate its magnificent gardens and striking courtyards. They offer a brilliant contrast to the awe-inspiring palatial structures, such as the Shri Govind Dev temple, Badal Mahal, Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal. Also, visit the Diwan-e-Khas and marvel at the giant silver water vessels. Jantar Mantar is the next attraction. The observatory comprises several impressive buildings of distinctive geometrical forms, each having a unique function for astronomical measurement. Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, is a striking attraction with more than 900 windows. Later in the day, explore and indulge in shopping at the colourful bazaars of Jaipur.

Experiences/Services Included on this day:

• All monument entrance fees
• Still camera charges (non-professional)
• Royal-style Elephant or Jeep ride at Amber Fort
• Dedicated English-speaking expert guide for personalised insights
• Private chauffeur-driven vehicle for seamless travel

Drive back to Delhi to catch your onward flight.

End of tour services.

Note: We can customize this tour to extend to other destinations as per your preference.