Golden Triangle & Ranthambore

Golden Triangle & Ranthambore Itinerary

• Day 1: Fly to Jaipur via Delhi

  Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) to Jaipur via Delhi with British Airways. (N)

• Days 2: Jaipur

  After arriving in Jaipur, transfer to the Alsisar Haveli where you will be staying for 3 nights. A former capital of the Rajput empire, Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II and is a colourful city with a fascinating blend of styles. This evening enjoy a welcome drink and dinner with your group. (D)

• Day 3: Jaipur

  Spend the morning just outside Jaipur in Amber, the ancient capital of the Kachwaha Rajputs. Here you will find a majestic fort-palace displaying both Mughal and Rajput designs. This afternoon, head back to Jaipur and explore the Pink City including visits to the sprawling City Palace and the curious astronomical observatory of Jantar Mantar. The observatory is home to a fine collection of 18th century astronomical instruments that can still be used with astonishing accuracy. Later, view the exterior of the iconic Hawa Mahal, or 'Palace of the Winds'. The five-storey structure with over 900 latticed windows was designed to allow royal women to observe street festivals without having to reveal themselves to the public. (B, D)

• Day 4: Jaipur

  Day at leisure to relax by the hotel pool or in the spa, explore Jaipur's many bazaars or take a sunrise balloon ride over the peaceful countryside. Alternatively, visit the craft village of Sanganer, famous for textile printing, its handmade paper industry and exquisite Jain temples*. (B, D)

• Day 5: Ranthambore

  This morning visit a local Hindu temple in time for morning puja or prayers. Travel to Ranthambore National Park for 2 nights at Hotel Abhyaran (or similar). Once the private hunting ground of royalty and a fine example of tiger conservation efforts, the park is celebrated for its tiger population, currently estimated to be 80, including 18 cubs. Afternoon at leisure or visit the rural village of Devpura, home to the beautiful Blackbuck deer. Visit a local tie and dye textile artist to see the Bandhini and Lehriya artworks*. (B, L, D)

• Day 6: Ranthambore

  Today, enjoy wildlife drives in the early morning and late afternoon in search of the elusive Bengal tiger. Although well known for its tiger population, Ranthambore is also home to sambars, panthers, marsh crocodiles, sloth bears and leopards, as well as being a bird watcher's paradise. (B, L, D)

• Day 7: Agra

  Experience a train ride in India by taking a journey from Sawai Madhopur to Bharatpur. Continue to Agra visiting the ancient citadel of Fatehpur Sikri en route. This deserted, 16th-century sandstone city was built as a tribute to the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chisti, but was abandoned just 15 years after it was built due to a shortage of water. Afternoon visit to the magnificent and imposing Agra fort. Overnight at Tajview Agra (premium Taj view room). (B, D)

• Day 8: Delhi

  A trip to Rajasthan would not be complete without a visit to the Taj Mahal and sunrise is the perfect time to see it, as the marble transforms its colour in the changing dawn light. Later, travel to Delhi where you will spend 2 nights at the LaLit (or similar). This afternoon explore Humayuns tomb, a fantastic early example of Mughal architecture; and the magnificent red sandstone edifice of Qutb Minar. (B, D)

• Day 9: Delhi

  Morning tour of Old Delhi including the Jama Masjid mosque and the colourful Chandni Chowk, which is an excellent spot to pick up souvenirs before your flight home. Enjoy lunch at Haveli Dharampura overlooking Old Delhi. Drive through Lutyens' New Delhi passing Rashtrapati Bhavan and India Gate. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax at the hotel or sample the local markets. Optional visit to Akshardham temple for the sunset water show*. (B, L, D)

• Day 10: Fly to London

  Transfer to the airport for a direct flight to London with British Airways. (B)

• Meal basis

  As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.

• Important information

• * Optional activities

  These activities can be pre-booked or booked locally and incur an additional charge.

• Tour variations

  Due to changes to seasonal schedules and opening times, there are minor itinerary variations for certain departure dates. Please check with your Cox & Kings tour consultant for details.

• Superior tour

  This tour is based in 4- and 5-star accommodation.

• Single supplement

  From £495pp.

• Private & tailor-made travel

  This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements.