Current as of: March 12, 2025 - 14:26
Current as of: March 12, 2025 - 14:26
1 out of 7 - Easy
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
This trip is rated Activity Level 1 (Easy). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
It is ideal for culturally curious travellers eager to explore and experience as much as possible. We cover the highlights of northern India in a short time, which means the itinerary is generally fast paced – prepare for some long days and early starts. India can be challenging, while the heat and bustle of some cities can be a little overwhelming. That said, there are peaceful spots and you will undoubtedly return with memories to last a lifetime.
Journey times: The times stated in the day-to-day itinerary are driving times and do not include photo, tea, comfort or lunch breaks. Journeys can sometimes take longer due to traffic or road damage. Additionally, fog is common in December and January, which can sometimes slow us down. Departures in these months may also experience train delays or cancellations. If a severe delay occurs, the group travels on a comfortable private bus instead.
Monuments: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India, including the Taj Mahal, and very occasionally this may mean that work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI schedule is never published, so it is not possible to warn you when work is taking place.
Festivals: Holi and Diwali
Some departures coincide with Holi and Diwali, both fascinating times to visit India. We will seek opportunities to see the festivities, though we cannot guarantee what will be happening locally during our trip – the festivals are celebrated in different ways throughout the country.
Holi typically involves people throwing coloured powders and water at each other and smearing powder on each other’s faces. This tends to be done in local communities and families, so it is not always possible to be involved (though you may see the colourful results of this boisterous festival on the streets). During Holi, local monuments and markets close, so departures over Holi have a slight adjustment to the itinerary. In Jaipur, sightseeing is limited, so where necessary we include a cultural day to see local musicians and dancers perform; there may also be an opportunity to join in: playing with colours, dancing, and enjoying food and drinks. You can also purchase the traditional white kurta outfit to look the part and avoid getting your clothes covered in the coloured powders.
During Diwali, the festival of lights to mark the start of the Hindu New Year, people may illuminate their houses and shops and sometimes celebrate on the streets with fireworks. It lasts up to five days, though it is difficult for us to predict what will be happening in the areas we visit. Where something is happening, we seek opportunities to witness the festivities.
Our Indian team of leaders has proved very popular with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Indian culture than letting an Indian guide show you around their country.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 16
Flights usually depart London in the evening.
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)
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 (three to four hours in total) 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)
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)
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)
Set out on a full day (two to three hours in the vehicle) 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)
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)
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, with each taking three to four hours. 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.
The day starts with an early morning transfer to Sawai Madhopur railway station for our express train journey (approximately 2hr 15min) 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)
Wake early to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when the white-marble exterior is illuminated by the soft early light, the crowds are smaller and the birds chatter among themselves. After admiring it from the outside, we head inside, with a chance to explore the beautiful inner chambers and mausoleum, while our tour leader shares the history of this New World Wonder.
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)
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.
The tour ends after breakfast. We take a morning transfer to Delhi International Airport for the flight to our onward destination.
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
Single supplement from £ 850
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.
We use a private minibus and train for our journey.
Worth knowing
During October/November and from March to April, the days are normally hot (around 30C-35C/86F-95F) and nights slightly cooler (18C-24C/65F-75F) but humidity is very low and little or no rain falls so it’s a great time of year to travel to this part of India.
From December to early February, it gets very cold in the early mornings and evenings (sometimes dropping to 6C/43F) and warm clothes are essential. During this time, nightly temperatures in Delhi can be very cold and only a little above freezing. The evenings and early mornings (particularly at Ranthambore National Park) can be surprisingly cool and damp too, so come prepared for both cold and warm temperatures during winter.
In July, August and September, expect very hot days and warm nights (28C-40C/82F-104F). Rain is also likely at any time from the end of June until September and can be very heavy. However, it moderates the temperatures and humidity.
Key information
Start hotel: The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa, Sector 4, Gole Market, New Delhi, Delhi 110001
Phone: +91 11 42500200
Recommended arrival time: Aim to arrive by 5pm. There will be a welcome briefing and group dinner in the evening
Airport: Delhi Airport (DEL)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 40 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Delhi Airport (DEL) from the end hotel.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Delhi
Location end: Delhi
It doesn’t matter what type of bag or case you use on this trip although it is preferable to use a soft holdall (with wheels if necessary) or large backpack as they tend to be easier to manage.
Additionally, out of respect to tradition, we recommend you pack clothes that cover the shoulders and go on or below the knee. This is particularly important when visiting temples and holy places.
Other essential items include:
For December to early February departures, warm clothes are essential. Evenings and early mornings (particularly at Ranthambore National Park) can be surprisingly cool, so come prepared for both cold and warm temperatures (6C-20C/43F-68F) during winter.
Electronic devices, power packs and batteries should be packed in hand luggage as these are not permitted in your hold/main luggage.
Face mask: air pollution is high in Delhi during November (but also occasionally at the end of October and beginning of December)
Prohibited items to travel with in India
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
To avoid possible problems at immigration, make sure your passport is valid for a minimum of 180 days at the time of entry into India.
Travellers from the UK, US, CA and EU normally need a visa to enter India. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/india
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/india
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/India.html
Travellers eligible for an e-visa, which includes those from the UK, US, CA and EU, can apply at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.
For more information on applying for your Indian Visa, including details required for your start hotel and local reference contacts, please click on this link: Indian Visa Information
You require a yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Proof of a polio vaccination may also be required by some visitors. Please confirm all requirements and recommendations with your doctor or travel clinic.
You may also want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and tuberculosis. The risk of malaria is slight, but you may wish to consult your doctor or travel clinic for further advice.
Additionally, dengue fever and chikungunya are known risks in India. Both are tropical viral diseases spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for either, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Some of our India trips spend time at altitude. In regions over approximately 6,560ft (2,000m), there is little risk of mosquito-borne diseases. For trips above 9,840ft (3,000m), there is a risk of being affected by acute mountain sickness. Our itineraries are designed to enable everyone to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected. Please see the Trip Notes for further information.
The risk of malaria on this trip is slight, but you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice.
India's time zone: Asia/Kolkata (UTC +05:30)
India's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins), D (three round pins) and M (three round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
India's currency: Indian rupee (INR). Please note, it is illegal to import or export rupees. Do not accept torn or very dirty Indian banknotes from banks or in change as they will almost certainly not be accepted as legal tender in India. You can normally change money back from rupees into US dollars or British pounds at the departure airport, but you must produce an exchange receipt showing that you changed money in India.
ATMs are widely available throughout the trip (Visa and Mastercard are best). You can also pay with credit cards in bigger shops.
Please inform your bank before departure that you are travelling to India and carry the relevant telephone number with you in case they put a block on your card.
Please note, you should not rely on cards all the time, so bring US dollars or British pounds with you too. Money exchange facilities are available on arrival at Delhi Airport, though exchange rates may be better in central Delhi.
Many sites now charge a small fee for video cameras (handy cams) and you should allow another 665 rupees (approximately US$9) for these. Also allow at least 570 rupees (approximately US$8) per day for personal expenditures, such as soft drinks. There are shopping opportunities throughout this tour and we suggest you take money for souvenirs.
During your trip, it is likely your local guides will offer to take you to emporiums and handicraft workshops. Guides often assume visitors want to shop, it is very much part of the culture, but if you do not wish to go, please make this clear to your guide and tour leader at the time. Many people find this a great opportunity to buy local handicrafts, silk and carpets but you may prefer the free time to recharge at the hotel or explore independently.
Optional excursions
There are plenty of opportunities for local excursions and cultural experiences throughout this trip, some of which are detailed in the daily itinerary. For an overview of the optional extras, please see below:
Delhi (start or end of trip):
Qutab Minar is a 240ft (73m) high victory tower built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak immediately after the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu kingdom. The tower has five distinct levels and at the foot of the tower is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque built in India. A 23ft (7m) high iron pillar stands in the courtyard of the mosque; it is said that if you can encircle it with your hands while standing with your back to it your wish will be fulfilled. Price includes transportation, local guide, tipping and monument entrance.
Neemrana Fort Palace:
Tips for local support staff are included on this Premium Adventure – this normally covers drivers, local specialist guides, certain hotel staff, and serving staff for included meals. Amounts are in line with the local standard.
Tips for the tour leader are not included. The amount, and whether to tip at all, is entirely at your own discretion, but if you wish to show your appreciation, we suggest around 330-415 rupees (US$4-US$5) per person per day.
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony though practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call us and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Seatbelts
All vehicles used by us should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by us based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.