India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure

14 Views
10 Days From

$4198

$3825

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure

10 Days Starting and ending in Delhi

Visiting: Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park, Agra

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

AID

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 16

Physical rating:

Easy

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Halal, Jain, Kosher, Meat, Vegans, Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $4198 $3825 Operator discount: -$373

NB: Prices correct on 08-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

With the three cities of the Golden Triangle, Bengal tigers of Ranthambore and countless grand fortresses, the north is India at its most evocative. Led by an expert tour leader, we explore it in style: enjoying high tea in sight of the Taj Mahal, staying in the 15th-century Neemrana Fort-Palace and dining with a charming family. Add to that the everyday wonders – smiling locals, whizzing rickshaws and flavoursome curries – and you will see why North India is such a favourite with our groups.

Highlights

  • Visit all three cities in the Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur  Gaze over the Taj Mahal while enjoying high tea at sunset  Search for the elusive tiger with two game drives in Ranthambore National Park  Stay at the glorious 15th-century Neemrana Fort-Palace  Visit the Wildlife SOS Conservation and Care centre for elephants near Agra 

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive In Delhi; Welcome Dinner At Local Restaurant

Location: Delhi

Meals Included: Dinner

Our adventure begins in Delhi, a thrumming city chock full of architectural masterpieces and one of the three cities that comprise the Golden Triangle. After your transfer to the hotel and check in, the day is free for you to relax or explore the sites of New and Old Delhi (an optional sightseeing trip can be organised if you wish). Recommended sites include the Red Fort, India Gate, Jama Masjid (the largest mosque in India), Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) and Raj Ghat. For shopping, visit the market area of Chandni Chowk or Karol Bagh. This evening, we get to know each other a little better at a local restaurant, tucking into the renowned dishes of northern India.



Accommodation: The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa (or similar)

Day 2 : Explore The Highlights Of Delhi

Location: Delhi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Engage with Delhi in a meaningful way that benefits local communities, embarking on an immersive off-the-grid walking tour of Old Delhi led by true experts – former street children. Wander through lively thoroughfares and bustling alleyways rarely visited by typical tourists. The walking tour culminates at the majestic Jama Masjid, the grand Mughal-era mosque commissioned by Shah Jahan. In the afternoon, our exploration continues with a traditional sightseeing tour of New Delhi as we drive past historic colonial landmarks, such as Rashtrapati Bhawan, Parliament House, and India Gate—a poignant memorial dedicated to soldiers of the First World War. Later, visit the exquisite UNESCO-listed Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning Mughal mausoleum crafted by Emperor Humayun’s widow, Hamida Banu Begam.



Accommodation: The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa (or similar)

Day 3 : Feel Like Royalty At Neemrana Fort-Palace; Free Afternoon To Relax

Location: Delhi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Say goodbye to Delhi after breakfast and head to the glorious 15th-century Neemrana Fort-Palace, a sprawling resort that extends over nine palace wings and our home for tonight.



The complex is much more than a hotel; steeped in over 500 years of history, it has hanging gardens, pools with views over the hillsides, and dromedaries (Arabian camels) that can take you on an unforgettable ride around the area (optional activity).



As the sun sets over the Aravalli Hills, enjoy the magical atmosphere as hundreds of lights sparkle across the resort.



Accommodation: Neemrana Fort-Palace Hotel (or similar)

Day 4 : Morning Drive To Jaipur; Traditional Cooking Demonstration And Dinner With A Local Family

Location: Jaipur

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we leave the palatial surroundings of the Neemrana Fort-Palace and drive (approximately three to four hours) to the 18th-century city of Jaipur. In the afternoon, journey through broad pink avenues of sandstone with a local tour leader to explore the colourful bazaars of Jaipur.



Next, enjoy a foodie adventure with our tour leader, feasting on delicious local snacks and street food. Sample mouth-watering Rajasthani snacks and delightful treats. We later proceed to the home of a local family for a cooking demonstration. They will happily share their stories and culture, as you learn the secrets behind a few traditional local cuisines, which is followed by dinner with the family.



Accommodation: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (or similar)

Day 5 : Jaipur Full Day Sightseeing; Amer Fort And City Palace

Location: Jaipur

Meals Included: Breakfast

Set out on a full day of sightseeing in Jaipur after breakfast. We begin by ascending to Amer Fort, a majestic hilltop stronghold constructed by the Kachwaha dynasty under Man Singh’s rule, which rises above a lake a few miles from the main city. This fortress once served as the Kachwaha dynasty’s seat before their capital relocated to Jaipur. Next, delve into the architectural marvel of the City Palace, a fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal styles and the ancestral residence of the Kachwaha Rajput clan.



Our tour continues to the Jantar Mantar, an ancient solar observatory housing impressive astronomical instruments that remain remarkably accurate. As we drive past the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), marvel at its intricate pink sandstone facade designed as a discreet viewing area for the royal women during street festivities. We conclude the day by exploring the vibrant local market within Jaipur’s historic walled city, where you can discover handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani delights.



Accommodation: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (or similar)

Day 6 : Drive To Ranthambore Via Abhaneri To Visit An Ancient Stepwell

Location: Ranthambore National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Depart Jaipur as we set off towards Ranthambore National Park (approximately a four to five-hour drive through the villages of rural India). Along the way, stop to admire Chand Baori, a magnificent ancient stepwell in Rajasthan renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance –it’s one of the largest and deepest stepwells in the world.



Upon reaching Ranthambore, settle into our hotel, adjacent to the national park and perfectly located for our two game drives tomorrow. The remainder of the day is yours to wander and discover the nearby village communities, soaking in the local culture and scenery.



Accommodation: The Tigress (or similar)

Day 7 : Two Game Drives In Ranthambore In Search Of Tigers

Location: Ranthambore National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We jump into shared 4x4s to explore Ranthambore National Park today. Once a royal hunting ground, the reserve was set up by Project Tiger in 1973, a government-backed conservation scheme, and is now home to nearly 90 tigers, plus plenty of other wildlife, including wild boars, langurs, crocodiles and more than 300 bird species.



To increase our chances of spotting the elusive tiger, we have two game drives today, one in the morning and another in the afternoon. Each vehicle is also joined by a Forest Guard, who are part of a national park initiative to generate employment for the nearby villages. They are skilled spotters and trackers so, though their English is sometimes very limited, they greatly improve the experience.



Accommodation: The Tigress (or similar)



Occasionally, the game drive timings or zones may be adjusted depending on government restrictions and changes in national park zonal opening/closing times. You may be in a vehicle without the leader depending on the group size. 

Day 8 : Express Train To Bharatpur And Drive To Agra; Visit Agra Fort, High Tea At Sunset Overlooking The Taj Mahal

Location: Agra

Meals Included: Breakfast

The day starts with an early morning transfer to Sawai Madhopur railway station for our express train journey to Bharatpur, where we are picked up and embark on a scenic drive (approximately one to two hours) to Agra.



Once in Agra, our first stop is the magnificent Agra Fort, a symbol of Mughal grandeur constructed by Emperor Akbar. Marvel at its formidable red sandstone walls enclosing elegant palaces, mosques, and gardens, including the exquisite Pearl Mosque. Following our exploration, check into our hotel for some relaxation.



Later in the day, prepare for a unique experience as we board beautifully decorated cycle rickshaws waiting outside the hotel. Absorb the vibrant atmosphere of daily city life in Agra as we traverse the bustling streets. After a delightful 10-minute ride, arrive at Shilpagram parking, where a short walk leads us to high tea and local snacks with a stunning view of the Taj Mahal at sunset. Millions of people visit this New Wonder of the World each year, but this extra-special experience allows us the time to admire its beauty as we relax and converse together. Concluding this memorable outing, we head to a local restaurant for dinner (not included).



Accommodation: Trident Agra (or similar)

Day 9 : Early Morning Visit Taj Mahal, Journey Back To Delhi; En-Route Visit Wildlife Sos Centres For Bear And Elephants; Farewell Dinner In Delhi

Location: Delhi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Begin the day with another chance to admire the magnificent Taj Mahal, this time at sunrise. This breathtaking white-marble monument was constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in loving memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.



Following breakfast, embark on our journey (approximately four to five hours) back to Delhi. En-route, we stop at Wildlife SOS near Agra. Their work is dedicated to rescuing and caring for bears and elephants. At the Agra Elephant Conservation and Care Centre, we meet an education officer to learn about their vital work and commitment to rehabilitating abused elephants and advocating for their conservation through public awareness campaigns. We tour the centre and see some of the rescued elephants and hear their stories.



After this enlightening visit, we resume our drive to Delhi and check into our hotel. In the evening, join the group for a memorable final dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying the mouth-water Indian dishes and sharing tales of our adventures together.



Accommodation: The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa (or similar)

Day 10 : End Delhi

Location: Delhi

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, our adventure through northern India comes to an end. If you’ve still a few pages left in your travel diary, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay in Delhi. Alternatively, catch your free transfer to the airport and begin your return journey home.

What's Included

  • Nine breakfasts and six dinners

  • All accommodation

  • All transport and listed activities

  • Entrances fees to monuments (as per itinerary)

  • Two game drives (as per itinerary)

  • Tour leader, chosen for their expertise and great customer feedback

  • Free arrival and departure transfers for everyone

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

  • Visas and vaccinations

  • Tips for the Tour Leader

  • Single accommodation (available on request)

Accommodation

The hotels we use on this Premium Rajasthan adventure are a combination of old world heritage and modern elegance. Below are the accommodations we typically use on this trip.



Delhi: The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa (nights 1-2 and 9) 







Begin and end your adventure at the Met, a five-star hotel in the heart of New Delhi. If you really want to treat yourself, there’s the award-winning neoVeda spa, which offers a luxurious take on Ayurvedic treatments. There are also three excellent restaurants, including a fine pan-Indian eatery, plus an outdoor pool. 



Near Jaipur: Neemrana Fort-Palace Hotel (night 3) 







Transport yourself 500 years into the past with a stay at the medieval Neemrana Fort-Palace, which sprawls over the Aravalli Hills. Built in 1464, the complex is fit for a royal, with 79 rooms spread over nine wings and 14 levels, an outdoor pool with valley views, plus a gym and spa. There’s also a recreation room and the chance to take a camel cart ride. 



Jaipur: Hotel Narian Niwas Palace (nights 4-5) 







Capturing the regal heritage of Rajasthan, this historic property was built in 1928 by General Amar Singh Ji, the then Thakur of Kanota. See the opulence of the past in the Bar Palladio, evoking the Rajput flourish and traditional Jaipur-style painted wall decal, which stands out over the bold color palette, typical of Jaipur. The hotel itself is decorated exquisitely throughout with painted frescos, opulent chandeliers and period furniture filling the property. The accommodation is spread across the property, within perfectly manicured gardens, there is also a large swimming pool, plus choice of fine-dining restaurants and casual bars. 



Ranthambore: The Tigress (nights 6-7) 







Named for the region’s most famous resident, the award-winning Tigress is just moments from Ranthambore National Park – ideal for our game drives. Newly built with a heritage style, it has an outdoor pool, fitness centre, guava and vegetable farm, spa and indoor games room.  



Agra: Trident Agra (night 8) 







Spend a night at the Trident, which has 135 modern rooms with views of the landscaped gardens, pool or the Taj Mahal-inspired central courtyard. There's a restaurant serving Mughal dishes and more, a bar and spa. It’s also designed with the environment in mind: 25 percent of the electricity is generated from solar energy and there’s an in-house water bottling plant.  



Worth knowing



The departures starting in Delhi on the below dates have a change of accommodation:



16 February 2025 and 23 November 2025 departures: Instead of Trident Agra, we stay at the Tajview

Food

All breakfasts and six dinners are included in this trip.



India is famous for its food and there is ample opportunity to try various curries such as the familiar tandoori, biriyani and rogan josh. If you are a vegetarian, India is a great destination. There are wonderful desserts and excellent beers, soft drinks and Indian specialities such as lassi, a refreshing yoghurt drink.



Allow at least 1,400-2,400 rupees (US$16-US$28) per day for lunch and dinner. In most towns we visit, there is a good selection of restaurants and a choice between Indian and Western food. Please note, service in restaurants can be quite slow. Tea and soft drinks are very cheap. A (large!) bottle of beer is approximately 300 rupees (approximately US$4).



Mineral water is widely available, but drinking water is provided in a large container in the bus to reduce our use of plastic, so please bring your own refillable water bottle.

Check out our Q&As

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included with this tour.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 16 years old.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes, our local guides are English speaking.

  • Who is Exodus Travels?

    At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews of this operator

Gergana Racheva  

Very helpful and prompt service

06-Jan-2023

Very helpful and prompt service. I called to check for an already booked trip and once we sorted this, the agent was ready to help me with another booking as well. He actually waited for me to book my flight tickets, answered all my questions, informed me of all my options. Exodus is a tour company I am using regularly due to the quality of their trips, ease of booking and helpfulness of their customer service team

Trustpilot
Tim Hardy  

Stunning walking. Walking the Amalfi Coast

04-Nov-2021

This trip takes you through the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean walking with a guide and also discovering the wonders of Pompeii and Vesuvius. The hotel had a nice feel as family run, spotless and comfortable rooms, we were well looked after for breakfasts and dinner each day, and the barmen fixed some mean cocktails for us.!

paul green (Google Reviewer)  

Went on a tour of...

14-Jan-2022

Went on a tour of morocco in October and loved it ,mohamed the tour guide was excellent, probably go with exodus to India next year

Paul Green  

It's amazing what you can do in a week! Cycling the Dalmatian Coast.

08-Oct-2021

This holiday was extremely enjoyable. The itinerary is well planned and the route takes you to a variety of destinations. Not having been to Croatia before I didn't know there were so many beautiful small islands and I loved the ferry and catarmaran rides. The coastal route we took was dramatic and the World Heritage sites in Split and Dubrovnik very interesting and worth visiting. The Adriatic Sea was warm, blue and inviting, good for swimming even in October. The hotels we stayed in varied in size from medium to large. I particularly liked the one just outside Dubrovnik as I had a sea view. Tourists were plentiful in Split and Dubrovnik but in the other places we stayed there was an end of season feel and it was quiet on the roads and in the resorts. The food was good and our guide was always able to recommend a nice restaurant for our evening meal. The weather in October was good for cycling - not hot, partly cloudy most days and one day it rained!

Mrs Y Morrison  

Fabulous company and trip

06-Jan-2023

We went overland from Cape Town to Zimbabwe through Botswana and Namibia. What a fantastic trip. Our first time with Exodus although we have travelled extensively around the world. We would highly recommend this company for such a brilliant trip - we got everything and more all at a good price. Thanks to everyone involved. We are looking at our next trip!

Trustpilot
Ann B (Google Reviewer)  

We had a week walking...

08-Oct-2024

We had a week walking and wine in the Duro valley with two local guides Louis and Theresa. They were both exceptional, knowledgeable, professional and funny. Our group of 11 had a great time. This was a premium tour. Our 4 star hotels were both well located clean and with great views. We had several local meals arranged by our guides with local people cooking for us. We did not meet any other walkers during our hikes only two shepherds. I would certainly recommend this tour to anyone interested in the local produce and wine. We both felt as we had learnt a lot about Portugal during this tour. We will use Exodus again. One of our group had done 30 tours with Exodus over the years. Quite an endorsement.

Alison Payton (Google Reviewer)  

I've done 8 trips in...

17-May-2023

I've done 8 trips in the last 14 years with Exodus, and have been rewarded with a 10% discount on all future bookings. I feel very confident that I'll receive pleasant, efficient service, and have the unusual holiday experience that I'm looking for each time. I've trekked to the top of snow-capped peaks, wild-camped in the desert, seen amazing spectacles of nature, visited 4 capital cities in a week, and learned about local culture and experienced local hospitality in a way that I simply wouldn't on a conventional holiday. The quality of the accommodation and guides can vary, but this is mainly down to cultural differences and things that Exodus can't control. I've only ever complained once, my complaint was taken seriously, and I was sent a discount voucher - you can't say fairer than that. I remain a loyal customer.

David (Google Reviewer)  

Exodus are generally a good...

21-Aug-2024

Exodus are generally a good travel company. Things tend to run smoothly and trips well organised. Their customers tend to be at retirement age. Trips are a bit overpriced. I would also avoid trips in Europe, as these often focus on more coffee stops and meals, rather than walking. I would also recommend making sure your guide records any accidents you have, hopefully not applicable. I had one on Sierra de Aitana which the guide saw and knew about, but he and Exodus said it never happened when I followed up after the trip. I wasn’t putting in a claim, just suggested a safety improvement. They have since apologised and acknowledged this as an error. They are a good reliable option for outside of Europe trips.

Jacquelyn Moore (Google Reviewer)  

Food came quickly. Staff very...

07-Mar-2024

Food came quickly. Staff very friendly and polite . However the chef or person preparing the food did not seem to read the menu! If it says a meal should come with vegetables, you should not have to ask for them. They served shepherds pie with garlic bread! The munchies ice cream sundae said it should come in a glass with a flake but came in a little bowl with just a few munchies! When asking the staff were happy to replace and correct but customer should get what they order and what menu says first time round!!

johanna leonor (Google Reviewer)  

If you like to be...

07-Sep-2023

If you like to be mistreated Exodus is perfect for you. If you enjoy terrible choices for hotels and pseudo restaurants Exodus is perfect for you. Careless about their clients and loveless about their propositions. Exodus has been a dissatisfaction and disappointment about every dealing i and my group have had with him. Especially a man called Simone who just cares about the money he can get from you couldn’t care less about service.

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Tuesday

Feb 02, 2025 - Feb 11, 2025
$4198 $3825

Operator discount: -$373

Sunday - Tuesday

Mar 23, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025
$4575

Sunday - Tuesday

Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$4200

Sunday - Tuesday

Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$4200

Friday - Sunday

Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$4350

Sunday - Tuesday

Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 11, 2025
$4200

Sunday - Tuesday

Nov 23, 2025 - Dec 02, 2025
$4200

Sunday - Tuesday

Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 23, 2025
$4575

Sunday - Tuesday

Dec 21, 2025 - Dec 30, 2025
$4725

Sunday - Tuesday

Jan 18, 2026 - Jan 27, 2026
$4500

Sunday - Tuesday

Jan 25, 2026 - Feb 03, 2026
$4500

Sunday - Tuesday

Feb 08, 2026 - Feb 17, 2026
$4500

Sunday - Tuesday

Feb 22, 2026 - Mar 03, 2026
$4500

Sunday - Tuesday

Mar 01, 2026 - Mar 10, 2026
$4725

Sunday - Tuesday

Mar 15, 2026 - Mar 24, 2026
$4500

Sunday - Tuesday

Mar 29, 2026 - Apr 07, 2026
$4725

Sunday - Tuesday

Apr 12, 2026 - Apr 21, 2026
$4500

Sunday - Tuesday

Sep 27, 2026 - Oct 06, 2026
$4500

Sunday - Tuesday

Oct 11, 2026 - Oct 20, 2026
$4500

Sunday - Tuesday

Oct 25, 2026 - Nov 03, 2026
$4500

Wednesday - Friday

Nov 04, 2026 - Nov 13, 2026
$4725

Sunday - Tuesday

Nov 15, 2026 - Nov 24, 2026
$4500

Sunday - Tuesday

Nov 29, 2026 - Dec 08, 2026
$4500

Sunday - Tuesday

Dec 06, 2026 - Dec 15, 2026
$4800

Sunday - Tuesday

Dec 20, 2026 - Dec 29, 2026
$5100
Prices last published on 07-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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