en
- Boutique
- 17-day trip
- From €5,350 p.p.
India trip | Discover the Golden Triangle and Rajasthan
Embark on an unforgettable journey through North India and discover the highlights of the Golden Triangle and colourful Rajasthan. In Delhi, you’ll experience the contrast between old and new, with a stroll through Old Delhi, a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk and impressive monuments such as the Akshardham Temple and Humayun’s Tomb. In Agra, you’ll admire the world-famous Taj Mahal at sunrise and explore the imposing Agra Fort. In Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’, you’ll discover the majestic Amber Fort, the City Palace, Jal Mahal and Hawa Mahal, and experience the vibrant local life whilst strolling through the colourful bazaars. In the countryside around Shahpura, you’ll stay at the heritage hotel Shahpura Bagh, with village walks, jeep safaris, cookery workshops and other authentic activities. The journey continues to Udaipur, the ‘Venice of the East’, with its fairytale lakes and impressive City Palace. The next stop is in Narlai, where you’ll go in search of leopards. You’ll round off the trip in Jodhpur, the Blue City, where you’ll visit Mehrangarh Fort, enjoy a traditional lunch with a local family and discover the colourful textile art of Maharani Textiles.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to India
- Day 2 Arrival in Delhi
- Day 3 The highlights of Old Delhi
- Day 4 Exploring New Delhi
- Day 5 Journey to Agra
- Day 6 Taj Mahal and journey to Jaipur
- Day 7 Palaces , forts and the local bazaar
- Day 8 Journey to Shahpura
- Day 9 Shahpura Avila Cycling Project
- Day 10 The journey to Udaipur
- Day 11 City Palace and Jagdish Temple in Udaipur
- Day 12 Romantic dinner in Narlai
- Day 13 Leopard safari
- Day 14 The Blue City
- Day 15 Mehrangarh Fort and tuk-tuk tour
- Day 16 Return to Delhi
- Day 17 Departure from India
Arrival in Delhi
Welcome to colourful India! You’ll arrive in Delhi, where you’ll be met by our local representative. You’ll travel by private transfer to your hotel in Delhi, where you’ll stay for the first three nights.
Delhi, the capital of India, reflects both ancient and modern India. It is the country’s third-largest city and one of Asia’s fastest-growing metropolises. Rich in culture and constantly evolving, yet always connected to the past. All over the city, ancient ruins and monuments serve as reminders of an impressive history.
Inclusief:
- Meet & Greet on arrival
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
The highlights of Old Delhi
After your first night in India, you will be picked up to explore the city with your guide, allowing you to step back in time to the era of the grandeur and subsequent decline of the Mughal Empire. Colourful, lively and chaotic are the words that best describe what many call Old Delhi, which was built by the mighty Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. During the Old Delhi tour, you’ll visit the Jama Masjid, among other sights, stroll through the narrow streets and markets, and see the once-glorious havelis (royal mansions) of Old Delhi. With a mix of walking and rickshaw rides, you’ll discover hidden gems as you explore the city’s narrow alleys and 350-year-old markets, built on the fringes of the Mughal Empire, once India’s most glorious monarchy.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the chance to take a traditional rickshaw ride. Climb aboard for a tour through the old market, which was once laid out by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. As you ride through the narrow streets, you’ll pass the colourful shops of bustling Chandni Chowk, one of Asia’s largest wholesale markets and a major historical landmark in India. Anyone who wishes can also take a short stroll through the market to experience daily life up close.
Inclusief:
- Walk through Old Delhi including a rickshaw ride with a local guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Discovering New Delhi
After breakfast, you will visit the impressive Akshardham Temple, a spiritual and cultural masterpiece that combines ancient Hindu traditions with modern architecture. The complex features beautiful gardens, inspiring exhibitions and over two hundred statues honouring India’s great spiritual masters. You will then explore Humayun’s Tomb, a jewel of Mughal architecture and the precursor to the Taj Mahal. During the panoramic drive through New Delhi, you’ll pass the stately Rajpath, the imposing India Gate, the Parliament Building and the President’s residence, followed by a drive through the elegant Diplomatic Enclave.
For those who still have energy left after these highlights, Khan Market offers a charming way to round off the day. This trendy shopping area combines exclusive boutiques, artsy bookshops and stylish cafés and wine bars. It’s the perfect place to stroll, shop or enjoy a relaxing moment with a good glass of wine. This excursion is flexible and optional!
Tips from a Travel Specialist
Please note: The Akshardham Temple is closed on Mondays!
Inclusief:
- Walking tour of New Delhi with a local guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Travel to Agra
A private transfer will take you today to your next destination on this trip, Agra. The city of Agra was founded in 1475 by Badal Singh and is even mentioned in the ancient Indian epic the Mahabharata, where it was known as Agraban. Later, Sikandar Lodi made it his capital, until Babur defeated the Lodis and thereby laid the foundations for the Mughal Empire. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Agra flourished as an important centre of art and architecture. The world-famous Taj Mahal, the symbol par excellence of the city and of India as a whole, also dates from this period.
In the afternoon, you will visit the impressive Agra Fort, once the heart of the Mughal Empire and still a place steeped in history and grandeur. From here, Emperor Shah Jahan gazed for years upon the mausoleum he had built for his great love. A special way to end the day, after which you will spend the night in Agra.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Visit to Agra Fort
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Taj Mahal and trip to Jaipur
Get up early today and prepare for a truly spectacular sight: the legendary Taj Mahal at daybreak. It is often said that the Taj Mahal changes colour every minute, depending on the angle of the sun’s rays. It is best viewed at sunset or sunrise. It took 22 years to complete this white marble masterpiece, designed by the Persian architect Ustad Isa. Its perfect symmetry, elegant domes, finely carved marble screens and exquisite inlay work make the Taj Mahal one of the world’s greatest architectural achievements.
After the visit, you will return to your hotel for breakfast before travelling on to Jaipur, the capital of the state of Rajasthan, also known as the ‘Pink City’. The city lies in a desolate and somewhat barren landscape, surrounded by hills topped with forts and crenellated walls. The capital of Rajasthan, with its rich and colourful past and magnificent tales of courage and valour, is now one of India’s most important heritage cities. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Tips from a Travel Specialist
Please note: the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.
Inclusief:
- Morning visit to the Taj Mahal with a local guide
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Palaces, forts and local bazaars
After breakfast, you will head out with your guide to the outskirts of Jaipur to visit Amber Fort, Jaipur’s most iconic landmark. You’ll travel by jeep up the hill to the fort’s entrance, where you’ll be welcomed by a magnificent complex of palaces, halls, gardens and temples. A highlight is the enchanting Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), with its dazzling mosaics of glass and mirrors.
After your visit to Amber Fort, you’ll head towards the heart of Jaipur. On the way, you’ll stop for photos at the fairytale-like Jal Mahal (Water Palace) and the famous façade of the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). You will then visit the impressive City Palace, which is still inhabited by the royal family. Here, you will wander through beautifully decorated halls and admire the seven-storey Chandra Mahal, with its famous Peacock Gate and panoramic views over the city.
In the evening, immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Jaipur during a lively stroll past bazaars and craftspeople. You’ll see silversmiths and bracelet-makers at work, whilst sampling local delicacies such as samosas, kulfi and lassi along the way. This is how you’ll experience the city just as the locals do: colourful, full of flavour and unforgettable.
Inclusief:
- Morning excursion: Visit to Amber Fort by jeep with a local guide
- Afternoon excursion: City Palace Museum, Jal Mahal and Hawa Mahal with a local guide
- Evening excursion: Visit to the local bazaar, including street food tasting with a local guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast and dinner
Trip to Shahpura
After breakfast, you’ll set off on a drive to Shahpura, a charming village nestled in the heart of the Rajasthani countryside. On arrival, you will check in at Shahpura Bagh, a stunning heritage retreat that was once the royal family’s private estate. Here, you will be welcomed into an oasis of tranquillity with lush gardens, elegant villas and the warm hospitality of Rajasthan.
In the evening, a special experience awaits you: an exclusive sundowner at the 400-year-old Dhikola Fort. Accompanied by a naturalist, you’ll drive past the Ramdwara temple complex and charming villages before reaching the fort, which towers high above the landscape. Here you’ll enjoy panoramic views, a fine glass of Indian wine or a refreshing beer, whilst the sun slowly disappears behind the hills. A magical end to your day, followed by an overnight stay at Shahpura Bagh.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Sundowner excursion to Dhikola Fort with a local guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Shahpura Avila Cycling Project
You’ll start the day with a private cycle tour through the countryside around Shahpura. As part of Avila’s Bicycle Project, you’ll purchase a bike from the local cycle shop and, accompanied by a local guide, set off on a wonderful ride through the stunning countryside. Along the way, you can enjoy a light picnic. At the end of the ride, your bikes will be donated to a family who are in desperate need of them.
The day concludes with dinner at the hotel, so that after your activities you can relax and savour the serene atmosphere of Shahpura Bagh.
Inclusief:
- Private cycling tour including a picnic with a local guide
- Accommodation on a full board basis
The trip to Udaipur
After breakfast, you will set off for Udaipur. On arrival, you will be taken to your hotel, where you can relax for the rest of the day or start exploring the city at your own pace. Known as ‘the Venice of the East’, Udaipur is one of India’s most romantic cities. Glistening lakes suddenly emerge from the arid landscape, surrounded by green hills that are still home to wildlife. Along the waterfront, and sometimes even in the middle of the lake, you’ll find fairytale palaces, each more beautiful than the last. The city was founded by Maharana Udai Singh and is nestled amongst the Aravalli Hills, on the shores of three enchanting lakes.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
City Palace and Jagdish Temple in Udaipur
After breakfast, you will visit the majestic City Palace, Udaipur’s most famous monument. This impressive palace complex lies on the banks of the picturesque Lake Pichola and offers a fascinating glimpse into Rajasthan’s regal past. You will stroll through courtyards, pavilions and halls, admire the art and enjoy the views over the city and the surrounding lakes. You will then visit the Jagdish Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. With its richly decorated pillars, beautiful sculptures and serene atmosphere, this is one of the city’s spiritual highlights. In the afternoon, you’ll return to your hotel and have some free time to relax or explore the city at your leisure.
Inclusief:
- Visit to the City Palace and Jagdish Temple in Udaipur with a local guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Romantic dinner in Narlai
After breakfast, you’ll set off for Narlai, a journey of about three and a half hours. In the afternoon, you’ll be taken to a special spot: the Narlai stepwell. You’ll be driven through the charming village to this well by ox-drawn cart. You’ll be enchanted by the glow of hundreds of flickering candles, lit especially for you. Sip a drink in the enchanting yellow light whilst a folk singer treats you to traditional desert songs. You’ll enjoy a sumptuous meal featuring local delicacies.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Accommodation on a full board basis
Leopard safari
Around Narlai lives a healthy population of leopards, which find plenty of food here in the form of waterfowl, peacocks and wild boar. It is a somewhat unusual habitat for this big cat: right in the middle of villages and fields, where people are never far away.
After a tasty lunch, you’ll put on your walking shoes in the afternoon for a special village walk. Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll stroll through the market, past simple houses and on to the village school. You’ll visit the picturesque old fort by the lake, the royal cenotaphs and a vegetable garden. Along the way, you’ll meet the locals and gain a unique insight into everyday village life. On your return, you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch at the hotel, after which you’ll have time for a siesta or a quiet moment in the garden.
Inclusief:
- Morning excursion: leopard safari by jeep
- Afternoon excursion: guided walking tour of the village
- Accommodation on a full board basis
The Blue City
After breakfast, you’ll drive to Jodhpur, the ‘Blue City’ of Rajasthan. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at your hotel. In the afternoon, you’ll go on a Village Safari to the Bishnoi community, known for their centuries-old traditions and deep respect for nature and animals. You’ll also meet the local Dhurrie weavers, who have been crafting beautiful rugs for centuries, and the potters, where you can have a go at the potter’s wheel yourself. These encounters offer a fascinating insight into village life in Rajasthan and demonstrate how traditional craft techniques are practised in an environmentally friendly and natural way.
Your hotel is situated in the heart of the old town and combines traditional haveli architecture with modern style. From here, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the illuminated fort. In the immediate vicinity, you’ll find stylish boutiques and arts and crafts shops, ideal for an evening stroll or a glass of wine whilst taking in the view.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Village safari with a local guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Mehrangarh Fort and tuk-tuk tour
You’ll visit the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, which towers high above the city and houses several beautifully decorated palaces, as well as the serene marble cenotaph, Jaswant Thada. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a special experience: a home-cooked lunch with a local family within the old city walls. A warm introduction to the hospitality and flavours of Rajasthan, with the chance to watch the cooking in action. Anyone who wishes can even have a go at preparing Indian dishes themselves. You’ll get a glimpse of what a typical Rajasthani household is like, with vivid memories of children playing and echoes in the courtyard, whilst you enjoy the traditional dishes familiar to every Jodhpuri family.
In the afternoon, you’ll travel by tuk-tuk to the old town near the Clock Tower and visit Maharani Textiles, a legendary family-run business where colourful fabrics and handmade shawls line the walls. This artisan business, which has been in existence for generations, has been supplying designs to major fashion houses such as Chanel, Miu Miu, Prada, Kenzo and Armani for decades.
Inclusief:
- Morning excursion: visit to Mehrangarh Fort with a local guide
- Lunch with a local family
- Afternoon excursion: Tuk-tuk tour of Jodhpur city centre and a visit to Maharani Textiles with a local guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Back to Delhi
After breakfast, you will be taken by private transfer to Jodhpur Airport for your flight to Delhi. You will spend one final night here before beginning your return journey the following day.
This time, you’ll be staying at a different hotel to the one at the start of your trip, so that you’re close to the airport. A stay at Andaz Delhi feels both modern and warm. The design is stylish, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable. The staff are attentive and welcoming, and the food delights with its local flavours. With its luxurious touches, Andaz Delhi offers the perfect end to your journey through India.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Jodhpur – Delhi
- Private transfer to your hotel
Accommodations
Colonel’s Retreat, Defence Colony
Colonel’s Retreat offers a comfortable and elegant place to stay. It has been designed by people who are themselves globetrotters and who pride themselves on upholding the highest standards of world-class hospitality. Accommodation options include standard rooms and double rooms with two separate…
Colonel’s Retreat offers a comfortable and elegant place to stay. It has been designed by people who are themselves globetrotters and who pride themselves on upholding the highest standards of world-class hospitality. Accommodation options include standard rooms and twin rooms. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, cable TV, a fridge, free Wi-Fi and an electronic safe. The hotel rooms also feature en-suite bathrooms with hot and cold running water.
Your stay: 3 nights
Tajview-IHCL SeleQtions
Tajview-IHCL SeleQtions is situated 3 km from the Taj Mahal. The property is set amongst six hectares of well-maintained gardens and features beautiful rooms. From most rooms, guests enjoy stunning views of the Taj Mahal.
The hotel offers a selection of rooms. They are all equipped with…
Tajview-IHCL SeleQtions is situated 3 km from the Taj Mahal. The property is set amongst six hectares of well-maintained gardens and features beautiful rooms. From most rooms, guests enjoy stunning views of the Taj Mahal.
The hotel offers a selection of rooms. They all feature comfortable bedding, a bathroom with a bath and free Wi-Fi. Leisure facilities include a restaurant, a spa and a fitness centre.
Your stay: 1 night
Padmaa Jaipur
Padmaa Jaipur, situated in the heart of the Pink City, is a beautifully restored 18th-century haveli. The boutique hotel features 15 uniquely decorated suites with amenities such as air conditioning, a hairdryer and an en-suite bathroom. Guests can enjoy facilities such as a rooftop swimming pool, a…
Padmaa Jaipur, situated in the heart of the Pink City, is a beautifully restored 18th-century haveli. The boutique hotel features 15 uniquely decorated suites with amenities such as air conditioning, a hairdryer and an en-suite bathroom. Guests can make use of facilities such as a rooftop swimming pool, a 24-hour reception and parking. Activities on offer include visiting nearby attractions such as Statue Circle, the Museum of Indology and the Birla Planetarium.
Your stay: 2 nights
Shahpura Bagh
Shahpura Bagh is situated halfway between Jaipur and Udaipur, in a beautiful, green part of Rajasthan. Former rulers laid the foundations for this by constructing dams, creating lakes which they used to irrigate their lands. Now the area is densely wooded and the landscape is very…
The Shahpura Bagh is situated halfway between Jaipur and Udaipur, in a beautiful, green part of Rajasthan. Former rulers laid the foundations for this by constructing dams, creating lakes which they used to irrigate their lands. Now the area is densely wooded and the landscape is very pleasant.
This establishment was once a summer residence for the rulers of Shahpura Bagh and has since become a popular attraction for travellers. Shahpura Bagh has five royal suites and four deluxe rooms with comfortable facilities. The rooms are decorated with antique paintings and photographs of the Shahpura rulers. Shahpura is renowned for its appreciation of traditional cuisine, and the meals served at Shahpura Bagh are authentic and cooked over a wood fire.
Your stay: 2 nights
Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel
Jagat Niwas Palace is situated on the eastern banks of the famous Lake Pichola in Udaipur, India. The hotel features comfortably furnished guest rooms equipped with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi access and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy Indian, Continental, Chinese and traditional…
Jagat Niwas Palace is situated on the eastern banks of the famous Lake Pichola in Udaipur, India. The hotel features comfortably furnished guest rooms equipped with modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi access and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy Indian, Continental, Chinese and traditional Rajasthani cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Additional facilities and services include a bar, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and wellness centre, and a fitness centre.
Your stay: 2 nights
Rawla Narlai
The Rawla Narlai is a 17th-century villa in a village in Rajasthan, halfway between Jodhpur and Udaipur. From the hotel, you can admire the high rock face with its caves and temples.
The village has various tourist attractions, and the hotel organises excursions and activities to explore these sights…
The Rawla Narlai is a 17th-century villa in a village in Rajasthan, halfway between Jodhpur and Udaipur. From the hotel, you can admire the high rock face with its caves and temples.
The village has various tourist attractions, and the hotel organises excursions and activities to explore these sights. For example, the hotel organises horse safaris led by experienced riders who take guests on a route through the countryside. Visitors can also arrange a trip to the Ranakpur temples or take a drive to Kumal Gar Fort. For the more active, a morning climb to the top of the hill is also an option.
Your stay: 2 nights
Hotel Ratan Vilas
Hotel Ratan Vilas is situated in Jodhpur, India, near the Sardar Government Museum, the Umaid Bhawan Museum, Nehru Park and the Sub-Regional Science Centre. Rooms feature air conditioning, a television, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a desk, a hairdryer, a telephone and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel offers…
Hotel Ratan Vilas is situated in Jodhpur, India, near the Sardar Government Museum, the Umaid Bhawan Museum, Nehru Park and the Sub-Regional Science Centre. Rooms feature air-conditioning, a television, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a desk, a hairdryer, a telephone and tea and coffee-making facilities. The hotel offers on-site dining for guests. Additional amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a 24-hour reception, an airport shuttle, parking and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Your stay: 2 nights
Andaz Delhi
Located in Aerocity, New Delhi, the Andaz Delhi is close to the business centres of Delhi and Gurgaon, as well as some of the city’s iconic tourist destinations and shopping areas. The hotel offers 401 loft-style rooms, including 45 suites and 129 additional serviced apartments. Each room features…
Located in Aerocity, New Delhi, the Andaz Delhi is close to the business centres of Delhi and Gurgaon, as well as some of the city’s iconic tourist destinations and shopping areas. The hotel offers 401 loft-style rooms, including 45 suites and 129 additional serviced apartments. Each room features one of 401 unique works of art celebrating a reason to fall in love with Delhi. Refined details, such as wooden floors, create a homely atmosphere, whilst modern bathroom fittings and artistic touches invite guests to relax in style. The rooms with a view offer stunning vistas of the runway at Indira Gandhi International Airport, an exciting vantage point from which to watch aeroplanes take off or land. The Andaz Apartments offer a residential-style experience with living and dining areas, fully equipped kitchens, and are available as one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments or as a duplex townhouse.
Your stay: 1 night
Experiences
Visit Taj Mahal
You will visit the magnificent monument Taj Mahal, built by an emperor in memory of his beloved. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631 and is believed to have taken 22 years. The marble exterior reflects rose and gold hues at sunrise and sunset, while during the day it...
You will visit the magnificent monument Taj Mahal, built by an emperor in memory of his beloved. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631 and is believed to have taken 22 years. The marble exterior reflects shades of pink and gold at sunrise and sunset, while it is dazzlingly white during the day. The design and construction is said to be by legendary architect Ustad Ahamad Lahori. Legend has it that once construction was completed, Shah Jehan had cut off and blinded Lahori's hands so that he could never copy the structure.
Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort towers imposingly over Jodhpur and is one of India’s most impressive forts. Massive walls protect palaces filled with intricate wood carvings and colourful frescoes. From the bastions, there are breathtaking views over the Blue City and the surrounding desert.
Destinations
Old Delhi
The contrast between Old and New Delhi is striking. New Delhi stretches out with wide, tree-lined avenues and stately government buildings, whilst Old Delhi, historically known as Shahjahanabad, is a walled city with narrow streets and architecture from the Mughal era. The city was founded in 1639 by Shah Jahan and centres on the Red Fort, a vast red sandstone fortress that served as the residence and administrative centre of the Mughal emperors. Nearby stands the Jama Masjid, with its three domes and tall minarets; its courtyard can accommodate thousands of worshippers. From the mosque, Chandni Chowk unfolds like a maze of streets where rickshaws weave their way past spice merchants, jewellers and food stalls. Weathered havelis, Jain and Hindu temples, the Sikh gurdwara Sisganj, the Khari Baoli spice market and covered bazaars line the alleyways.
Uttar Pradesh
India's famous northern state is home to some of India's most famous tourist attractions, the Taj Mahal and the holy Varanasi. The mighty Ganges flows diagonally through the state from the Himalayas in the north to the open plains of the east. Agriculture is the main contributor to Uttar Pradesh's economy, employing about three-quarters of the labour force. In the sixth century BC, Uttar Pradesh was associated with two new religions - Jainism and Buddhism. It was in Sarnath, just outside Varanasi, that Buddha preached his first sermon and laid the foundations of Buddhism.
Jaipur
Jaipur is the capital and largest city in the northern state of India. This city is famous for being India's first planned city with a large number of pink terracotta buildings in its walled historic centre, giving it the nickname 'The Pink City'. Jaipur falls within the Golden Triangle, a popular tourist circle that includes Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, and serves as a gateway to the neighbouring desert cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. Combining tradition and modernity, this colourful city offers visitors vibrant bazaars, lavish palaces and ancient temples. The old city is home to the opulent City Palace. It includes an impressive assortment of palatial structures, sprawling gardens, courtyards and buildings. During your stay, don't miss the fairytale splendour of the Amber Fort.
New Delhi
India's largest city, Delhi, was one of the country's commercial and economic centres for centuries, making it incredibly rich in culture and history. The city consists of the ancient walled city of Old Delhi and the modern part, New Delhi and includes a stunning array of beautiful architecture, remarkable monuments and ancient temples, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites - the Red Fort, Qutab Minar and Humayun's Tomb. Other major attractions include the 17th-century Chandni Chowk market, the iconic Bahà'i Lotus Temple and the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque.
India
Udaipur
Called the 'Venice of the East', the city of Udaipur is built around three interconnected lakes - Lake Pichhola, Fateh Sagar Lake and the smaller Swaroop Sagar Lake - and is surrounded by the hills of the Aravalli Mountains. Home to an array of ancient temples and fairytale palaces (some of the latter have been converted into luxury heritage hotels), it is known as one of Rajasthan's most beautiful and romantic cities. Must-see attractions include the City Palace, the Lake Palace (on a small island in the middle of Lake Pichola) and the Udaipur Solar Observatory, Asia's most important solar energy site.
Jodhpur
Known as the gateway to the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is the second largest city in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is a popular tourist destination with a variety of ornate palaces, ancient forts and sacred temples. "The Blue City", most of the houses in the old city are painted in a beautiful shade of indigo. Although Jodhpur is largely a sprawling modern metropolis, enclosed within the old city walls is a labyrinth of winding, narrow medieval streets and bazaars. The city is also home to one of the largest forts in India, the massive 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, which towers over the city from its sandstone plinth. Other sights not to be missed include the Umaid Bhawan Palace, one of the world's largest private residences, and the Jaswant Thada, an intricately carved white marble mausoleum.
Agra
Agra is one of India's top tourist destinations because of the world-famous Taj Mahal. Around Agra are a range of other impressive historical sites. These include the Agra Fort, the holy Jama Masjid mosque and the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, with its white marble facade. However, the Taj is in a league of its own and needless to say, it is a must-see for any visitor to the city. The magnificent monument Taj Mahal, built by a Mughal emperor in memory of his beloved is an architectural masterpiece of exquisite craftsmanship and perfect dimensions.
Rajasthan
India's largest state, Rajasthan, is also one of the most captivating. Known for its vibrant cities, the golden splendour of the vast Thar Desert, the ancient Aravalli Mountains and countless magnificent palaces, temples and forts - a legacy of its royal legacy Rajput. Highlights include the colourful capital Jaipur - a veritable shopping mecca; the serene city of Udaipur, with its shimmering lakes and mountainous backdrop; the ancient palaces and pink architecture of Jaipur, dubbed 'The Pink City'; and ventures into the desolate beauty of the sun-drenched dunes of the Thar Desert.
Aravalli Mountain Range
One of the oldest mountain ranges in India, the Aravalli – which means ‘line of peaks’ – stretches across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi. The highest point of the Aravalli Mountains is Guru Shikhar Peak, which stands at 1,722 metres. Various rivers, such as the Banas, Luni, Sakhi and Sabarmati, and lakes, are nestled within the range. Although the south is heavily forested, the area generally consists of large tracts of rock and an abundance of pink quartzite.
The mountains are home to the blue bull, fox, leopard, Indian pangolin, Indian civet, porcupine, sloth bear, star tortoise, striped hyena and many species of reptiles, both venomous and non-venomous. Birdlife includes black vultures, white-backed vultures, storks, spoonbills and ospreys. The region is renowned for its abundance of medicinal plants. Ranthambhore National Park in Rajasthan offers magnificent views of the Aravalli Range.
Narlai
Narlai, situated in the heart of the Aravalli Hills, just 36 km from Ranakpur, is a bustling little town dating back to the 15th century. It is surrounded by an idyllic landscape, home to countless sacred temples where, strangely enough, leopards live amongst the buildings and can be spotted. The most prominent of these is the Shri Adinath Jain Temple, which dates back to the year 907 and features two enormous elephant statues guarding the entrance. Other popular attractions include the imposing Kumbhalgarh Fort; the impressive 17th-century Rawla Narlai heritage hotel (once the holiday home of the Maharaja of Jodhpur); and the colossal Shri Aai Mata shrine, perched high on a hilltop and featuring an ‘eternal flame’.
Shahpura
The town of Shahpura, situated on the sun-drenched plains of Rajasthan in north-western India, serves as a stopover between Jaipur and Udaipur. This town is a small oasis amidst the arid hills of Rajasthan and is a place of pilgrimage for the Ram Snehi, a spiritual and religious group with traditions dating back to the early 19th century. Shahpura remains largely untouched by modernity and seems frozen in time. The area is surrounded by more than 250 small lakes and is a paradise for birdwatchers and an idyllic setting for visitors to enjoy a boat trip on the picturesque Shahpura Lake.
Jamwa Ramgarh
Situated near Jaipur on State Highway 55, Jamwa Ramgarh – also known as Ramgarh – is a subdivision of the Jaipur district in Rajasthan. Jamwa Ramgarh was once renowned for Ramgarh Lake, which has since dried up. The town offers a relaxing getaway with historical sites, natural beauty and religious attractions. Explore the imposing Jamwa Ramgarh Fort or visit the Nahargarh Biological Park, shop for souvenirs, savour Rajasthani cuisine, or take a memorable camel ride. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Teej Festival or witness the grandeur of the Jaipur Elephant Festival. Visit during the cooler months to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
India trip | Discover the Golden Triangle and Rajasthan
We offer this trip from €5,350 per person.
The tour price is an estimate and is subject to availability and the travel period, amongst other factors.
Included
• Domestic flights
• Accommodation in high-quality and distinctive lodges and hotels
• All meals as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• All excursions as listed in the ‘itinerary’, including city walks in Old Delhi and New Delhi, a food tour of Jaipur and a private cycle tour of Shapura
• Private transport with an English-speaking private guide/driver
• Meet & Greet on arrival
• Entrance fees where applicable
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €50 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
• City walks with local guides
• Lunches with local families
• Avila Cycling Project in Shahpura
Not included
• International flights
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Visa fees
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Entrance fees, where applicable
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)