Golden Triangle & Shimla

Golden Triangle & Shimla

Experience a taste of India on this outstanding introductory tour of the country’s most celebrated sights. Exploring the Golden Triangle, this journey combines imperial Delhi with the legendary Taj Mahal at Agra and a 3-night stay in the princely city of Jaipur, culminating in the beautiful hills of Shimla.

What's Included

• Small group size - average 14 people (max 18)
• 5-star accommodation
• Flexible - extensions, room & flight upgrades available
• Direct international flights with Virgin Atlantic
• Express train travel in air-conditioned executive class
• Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles (10+ people in Volvo coach)
• Ride first class on Shimla’s toy train
• Experienced local tour manager
• 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 11 dinners
• Guided sightseeing & entrance fees
• Porterage at airports & stations
• Free day in Jaipur & Shimla for independent exploration

Day 1: UK – Delhi

Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) to Delhi with Virgin Atlantic. (N)

Day 2: Delhi

Arrive in Delhi and transfer to the Taj Palace for 1 night. Leisurely afternoon tour visiting the Jama Masjid mosque and exploring the labyrinthine streets of Old Delhi by cycle rickshaw. In the early evening, dine at Haveli Dharampura and take in views of the Red Fort from its upper terrace. (D)

Day 3: New Delhi – Agra

Tour of New Delhi, including a drive past India Gate and the former viceregal residence. Continue to the tomb of the Mughal emperor Humayun and the Qutb Minar tower. Drive to Agra and stay at the Trident Agra for 2 nights. (B, D)

Day 4: Agra

Sunrise visit to the spectacular Taj Mahal before exploring the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah and Agra Fort. Visit Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden), for sunset over the Taj Mahal. (B, D)

Day 5: Fatehpur Sikri – Jaipur

Continue to Jaipur via the deserted sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri and Abhaneri stepwell. En route, enjoy lunch at the lavish Laxmi Vilas Palace. Stay 3 nights at Ramgarh Lodge Jaipur – IHCL SeleQtions, a maharajah's former hunting lodge. (B, L, D

Day 6: Jaipur

Morning visit to Amber Fort and the Anokhi Museum. Afternoon visit to the striking City Palace, home of the present maharajah and the curious Jantar Mantar observatory. (B, D)

Day 7: Jaipur

A day at leisure to relax. Explore Jaipur's many bazaars or choose from the range of optional activities including a sunrise balloon ride†. (B, D)

Day 8: Delhi

Travel to Shahpura for lunch at the opulent 300-year-old palace, visit a local NGO and walk through the local village. Continue to Delhi for an overnight stay at the Taj Palace. (B, L, D)

Day 9: Shimla

Take the morning train to Kalka followed by the narrow-gauge 'toy train' to Shimla, passing through stunning mountains. Stay 3 nights at the Oberoi Cecil in Shimla, the British summer capital during the Raj era. Upgrade to a Premier Valley View room from £180 per person for 3 nights. (B, L*, D)

Day 10: Shimla

Explore the historic mall and listen to the stories behind its many colonial buildings while making your way to the Vice Regal Lodge. (B, D)

Day 11: Shimla

Day at leisure. Option to explore Shimla on a nature walk from the house where Rudyard Kipling wrote Plain Tales from the Hills to the gallery of a Shimla painter. Alternatively, enjoy afternoon tea at the Oberoi Wildflower Hall or visit the princely state of Dhami to spend the day with the noble family, birdwatching and enjoying their stories over lunch.† (B, D)

Day 12: Delhi

Drive to Chandigarh and connect with the midday train to Delhi. Stay overnight at the Taj Palace. (B, L*, D)

Day 13: Fly to London

Fly to London with Virgin Atlantic. (B)