Discover the wonders of India’s most iconic cities. Experience the vibrant energy of Delhi, marvel at the Taj Mahal in Agra, the timeless symbol of eternal love and explore Jaipur, the enchanting Pink City and capital of Rajasthan. This thoughtfully designed itinerary is perfect for travelers, offering breathtaking sights while ensuring seamless travel between these iconic cities.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Delhi: Delhi is a combination of the cities that were founded between 900 BC and 1930 AD. An elegant capital city brimming with history.
Jaipur: The capital city of Rajasthan is famous for its pink sandstone buildings. It was founded by King Sawai Jai Singh II, a great astronomer, and was built according to the Vastu Shastra.
Fatehpur Sikri: Explore the remarkable red sandstone palaces of this abandoned Mughal city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning architecture and historical significance as a former imperial capital.
Agra: The ancient capital of the Mughal dynasty, one of the most visited cities in India and an important part of the "Golden Triangle" tour of northern India.
Day 1: ARRIVAL DELHI
Welcome to Delhi, the vibrant capital of India. On arrival, you’ll be greeted at the airport by an English-speaking representative and transferred to your hotel. Delhi is a city where centuries of history blend with rapid modern growth, land said to have witnessed seven different cities rise and fall, where the old and the new coexist in a captivating panorama.
Overnight in Delhi.
Day 2: DELHI – JAIPUR (260km – 6hrs)
After breakfast discover the vibrant city of Old and New Delhi. In Old Delhi, enjoy a morning tour of Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India and an architectural masterpiece of the Muslim faith. Then drive past Red Fort, a splendid fort made of red sandstone, which was once the residence of Mughal Emperor Shahjahan. Continue with the sightseeing tour of New Delhi, driving past India’s seat of power, the President's House and Parliament House. Take a short photo stop at India Gate, the famous war memorial arch of India. Later visit Qutub Minar, a fine example of early Muslim and Afghan architecture in India.
Later this afternoon, embark on your drive to Jaipur, the pink hued capital city of Rajasthan. This city of erstwhile Rajput Maharajas is built in 9 rectangular sectors symbolizing 9 divisions of the universe, according to Indian cosmology. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 3: JAIPUR
Set out in the morning after breakfast, for a visit to Amber Fort by jeep. The rugged, time-ravaged walls of the Fort may not look beautiful from the outside, but the interior is a virtual paradise. Inside the Fort, visit the Jag Mandir or the Hall of Victory. Inside the Jag Mandir is the famed Sheesh Mahal – a room with all four walls and ceiling completely embedded with glittering mirror pieces, which were specially imported from Belgium during that period.
Later visit Jaipur’s City Palace complex with its various museums and the fascinating Jantar Mantar, the ancient astronomical observatory built by the Maharaja of Jaipur. Also see Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), built in the 18th century. This palace with its innumerable windows and screened balconies was especially built for the royal women to view the city and processions from behind their purdahs. Later, explore the many facets of Jaipuri crafts such as semi-precious jewels, colourful fabrics and woven carpets. Watch artisans at work and enjoy souvenir shopping in this colourful city of Jaipur.
This evening experience the spiritualism of Jaipur with a visit to Birla Mandir, the fascinating white marble temple of Jaipur that is brightly lit up in the evenings, when priests perform the holy ‘AARTI’ ceremony at the temple.
Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 4: JAIPUR – FATEHPUR SIKRI – AGRA (240km – 5hrs)
After breakfast, embark on a drive to Agra en route visiting Abhaneri, a small village with the amazing 'Baoris' (step wells). Continue driving to Agra, making a stop to visit Fatehpur Sikri, a beautiful blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture and the capital of the Mughal Empire in the 16th century. This place was built by Emperor Akbar in gratitude for Saint Sheikh Salim Chishti, who foretold the birth of Emperor Akbar’s sons. Ever since then, followers have been visiting Fatehpur Sikri to make a wish and tie a thread on the ‘Wish Pillar’, with the hope that their wishes will be fulfilled.
Continue driving to Agra, home to the Taj Mahal. This evening you visit marble inlay workshops and indulge in exquisite souvenir shopping in the culture and tradition filled city of Agra. Apart from beautiful marble artefacts, Agra is also famous for its exquisite leather work, embroidered fabrics and traditional embroidered ‘jutti’, i.e. flat shoes.
Overnight in Agra.
Day 5: AGRA – DELHI DEPARTURE (220km – 4hrs)
This morning witness the surreal views of the world famous Taj Mahal at sunrise (subject to weather conditions). Step inside this eternal symbol of love and appreciate the intricate designs and symmetries that rhyme as a poem written in marble. Taj Mahal is an extravagant display of love, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal in 1560.
Later, visit the magnificent Agra Fort, the first major architectural project of Emperor Akbar. Built between 1565 and 1575 on the site of an earlier fortress, it houses impressive structures such as Jahangiri Mahal, Khas Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, and Moti Masjid. Expanded by Shah Jahan, the fort’s red sandstone walls stretch over 2 km, adorned with elegant curves and towering bastions — a grand symbol of Mughal power and artistry.
Return back to Delhi and upon arrival, transfer to the airport for your return flight.
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in India. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
