Explore Delhi, the Pink City of Jaipur and the legendary Taj Mahal in Agra and discover the lofty peaks and breathtaking views of Shimla, India's largest hill station and the former summer capital of British India. Ride the narrow gauge railway aboard the Himalayan Queen Toy Train.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Old & New Delhi
Today we enjoy a full day of sightseeing, taking in the highlights of Old and New Delhi. In the older part of the city we visit Humayun’s Tomb and Jama Masjid - India’s oldest and largest mosque. Continue to the Raj Ghat memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, where an eternal flame now burns at the site of his cremation. There's also time for an exhilarating rickshaw ride. In New Delhi we discover the ceremonial Rajpath, formerly the ‘King’s Way’, and the India Gate monument. This evening we enjoy a group Namaste dinner.
Overnight: Delhi | Breakfast, Dinner
Taj Mahal
Delhi - Agra. Say goodbye to Delhi as we travel to Agra, the former capital of the Mughal Empire from 1556 to 1648. Explore behind the fortified walls of Agra Fort and continue to India’s most iconic attraction - the legendary Taj Mahal. Enjoy a guided tour of this famous white mausoleum, which was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century to honor his wife who died tragically in childbirth. The Taj Mahal remains the most extravagant monument to love ever built and has no peers. Gaze in awe at this bucket list worthy destinaton.
Overnight: Agra | Breakfast
Fatehpur Sikri
Agra - Karauli/Dholpur. This morning we visit the eerie former Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri which has laid abandoned for more than 400 years. Continue to the beautiful Palace Bhanwar Vilas in Karauli, or the Raj Niwas Palace in Dholpur stopping for lunch en route. Spend the afternoon at your leisure exploring the grounds. This evening, perhaps opt to attend the evening Aarti (prayer).
Please Note: If staying In Dholpur you will visit Fatephur Sikri on the morning of Day 5 on the way to Jaipur.
Overnight: Karauli or Dholpur | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jaipur
Karauli/Dholpur - Jaipur. Today we visit a local school to meet the pupils and teachers (if open). We operate our Change for Children program here and you may consider bringing some educational gifts with you from home to give out to the children - they’ll be much appreciated (see trip notes). After the visit, we continue to the famous UNESCO-listed Pink City of Jaipur, where the rest of today is at leisure. You may wish to attend the showing of a Bollywood movie at the Raj Mandir cinema.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast
Jaipur sightseeing
There is an exciting optional opportunity this morning to sail over Jaipur and its surrounding palaces, forts and countryside in a hot air balloon, with the Pink City as your stunning backdrop. Later, we travel to Amber Fort for a guided tour of its well-preserved interior. We reach the site by jeep and gaze out over Maota Lake from one of the four levels of this impressive fortress. Our tour continues with a visit to the Jaipur City Palace and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar space observatory, made up of 19 separate astrological instruments.
Overnight: Jaipur | Breakfast
Return to Delhi
Jaipur - Delhi. This morning we drive back to Delhi where you’re free to explore the city as you please. Perhaps visit the striking Akshardham, which is the largest Hindu temple in the world.
Overnight: Delhi | Breakfast
Toy Train to Dharampur
Delhi - Kalka - Dharampur - Shimla. Rise early this morning as we board the Shatabdi Express train to Kalka. You then transfer independently to the Himalayan Queen Toy Train for a unique experience to Dharampur. The 33km journey sees us travel along narrow twists and turns, through scenic countryside and numerous tunnels. Pass through forests, over bridges and stop at old, traditional stations. Arriving into Dharampur we complete the journey to our hotel in Shimla by road, where the evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Shimla | Breakfast
Shimla Sightseeing
We spend the next 2 days in Shimla. Today we explore the city of Shimla, located 2,100m above sea level at the foot of the mighty Himalayas. Explore the famous main street - The Mall, which is lined with stately English homes and has a distinctly British feel. We also discover the Viceregal Lodge, the former residence of the British Viceroy of India. Stroll down narrow streets and explore colorful bazaars in this scenic city, surrounded by the beautiful valley and the towering mountains. The next day is spent at leisure in Shimla.
Day 10 offers free time for you to independently explore Shimla. You can opt for a stroll around the town, drop by the colorful Lakkar Bazaar or hike to the summit of Jakhoo Hill, Shimla’s highest point. Here visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks set as a glorious backdrop to the sleepy township of Shimla below.
Overnight: Shimla | Breakfast x 2
Chandigarh
Shimla - Chandigarh - Delhi. Say goodbye to Shimla as we travel to the modern city of Chandigarh for a guided tour. See highlights of the city including the famous Rock Garden. A completely unique and innovative creation, the Rock Garden is a collection of over 2,000 sculptures created over 20 years from a collection of concrete, steel drums, old bicycle frames and broken sinks. If time permits visit the Rose Garden - Asia’s largest botanical garden and home to 1,500 species of roses and also stroll along the shore of the man-made Sukhna Lake. This afternoon we take the train back to Delhi. Upon arrival into Delhi, you'll be met and transferred to our hotel.
Overnight: Delhi | Breakfast
Delhi
Wednesday. Our Indian adventure comes to an end today with an included departure transfer to the airport.
Breakfast
Balloon Over Jaipur!
Hop on an exhilarating hot air balloon ride over the majestic Pink City of Jaipur. Sail within a breath of lofty hilltop forts and fine regal palaces. Look down upon sleepy villages waking in the early morning sun. Drift past expansive waterside manors and intricately carved temples on a magical hot air balloon adventure! The balloon flight will take place in the early morning of day 6.
Extend your stay in this vibrant country, view our selection of add-ons and short stays.
For information about visas, top travel tips, best time to travel and much more, browse our dedicated travel guide.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates marked with a 'G' are operating. All departure dates from 1 Apr 2023 are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. Prior to this date a departure is guaranteed with 4 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to solo travellers or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
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Extra Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Royale Regent Hotel, Agra
The stylish Royale Regent hotel offers views of the magnificent Taj Mahal from its rooftop pool, so guests can gaze at this World wonder while sipping on a cocktail and retreating from the hustle and bustle of the city. Each comfortable air-conditioned room features a minibar with tea and coffee making facilities, satellite TV as well as excellent en-suite facilities. Guests can also enjoy an array of flavours in the onsite garden or mutli-cuisine restaurant.
Bhanwar Vilas Palace, Karauli
Built in 1938, this stunning property is the residence of the Maharaja (181st in the Royal Dynasty) and Maharani of Karauli. Both the architecture and furniture have been designed in fitting with colonial styles and the property offers a fantastic insight into the history and elegance of a bygone era. The property offers deluxe rooms and luxury suites, each including a range of modern amenities such as a mini bar, a well-appointed ensuite and a plush king-sized bed. In the evenings, guests can tuck into an array of regional specialties as well as international cuisine in the hotel's restaurant.
Raj Niwas Palace, Dholpur, Karauli
With vibrant history and a rich heritage, Dholpur Palace also known as Raj Niwas Palace, is a mesmerizing journey back in time. Once home to generations of Royals, this converted palace still reflects the magnificence of the Rajasthani architecture of that era. Guest rooms offer a refreshing mix of Indian heritage and modern facilities including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and a mini bar. Set in 13 acres of garden, the Palace grounds are full of peacock and bird life that nip over from the National Chambal Sanctuary nearby.
Mandawa Haveli, Jaipur
Made of pink and red sandstone, the beautiful heritage-style Mandawa Haveli is a fine example of typical Rajasthani architecture. All rooms are well appointed with intricately carved wooden beds and king-size royal portraits, with modern amenities such as free WiFi and ensuite bathrooms. Spend an evening dining on continental, Indian or Rajasthani cuisine on the outdoor terrace or request a private, candlelit dinner on the rooftop under a star-studded sky. Well located in the heart of Jaipur city on Sansar Chandra Road, this hotel is just a few minute’s drive from the Palace of the Winds.
Park Inn by Radisson New Delhi, Delhi
Set in the heart of one of the most popular neighbourhoods of Delhi, the Park Inn by Radisson offers a comfortable stay in India’s bustling capital. With contemporary guestrooms which feature en suite bathrooms, high speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning and flat screen TVs. Enjoy al fresco dining and drinks at the 24-hour RBG Bar & Grill, which serves tasty traditional Indian fare and international cuisine. After a busy day of sightseeing, unwind with a swim in the hotel's sparkling pool or work up a sweat in the fitness centre. Ideally located just 20 minutes from the airport and a short walk from a metro station, it's easy to reach popular sites such as the Lotus Temple, India Gate and Connaught Place.
Holiday Inn Mayur Vihar, Delhi
Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida is a modern hotel, located in the heart of bustling Delhi NCR. With Mayur Vihar Metro Station less than 550 yards away, providing easy access to the commercial hubs of Noida, South Delhi and Connaught Place. Comfort is guaranteed in the contemporary guest rooms, which feature an ergonomic chair, high speed WiFi, in room safe and LED TV. Relax and unwind in the outdoor infinity pool and workout at the 24 hour Fitness Centre. There's a choice of dining options, with Café on 3, offering Indian and international delicacies, overlooking the infinity pool and a beautiful alfresco area, while the Kylin Experience restaurant serves delicious Asian cuisine and tasty signature cocktails
Hotel Willow Banks, Shimla
Dating back to 1871, Hotel Willow Banks is housed in a colonial building in the heart of Shimla. Offering amazing views of the surrounding mountain scenery, it is within walking distance of attractions including Christ Church, and is located on The Mall shopping street. Elegant rooms come equipped with ensuite bathrooms, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a fridge. There are also balconies in many rooms. There is free Wi-Fi and the onsite restaurant, Eighteen71 Cookhouse serves a variety of local and international dishes. There is also a pub and brewery onsite, with entertainment into the evenings. The hotel also boasts Shimla's only Skybar, the best place for soaking up the mountain scenery with a quiet drink.
Hotel Dhroov, Shimla
Located just a few hundred metres from The Mall, Hotel Dhroov boasts pleasant views of the Himalayas. All guest rooms are spacious, with seating area, TV, ensuite bathrooms and other amenities, with complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the property. Continental and buffet breakfast is offered in the onsite restaurant, and there is also a bar and a comfortable shared lounge area.
The trip was very organised and there were guides, taxi drivers ready to go at each point inc our journeys on trains and trips to and from the airport. The Shimla trip was lovely and certainly orthwhile. The trip notes are very good and useful once home and looking back over the photos.The guides we had were very experienced and gave us some history and background information.”
OTG organisation throughout the trip was first class with no problems being experienced. Accommodation was varied and excellent in most cases.
As for our guide if you had a 7 star category he would get this. Jusuf is a fantastic asset to OTG.
The overall experience was amazing and will stay with us for years to come.”
Excellent tour informative active and enjoyable.”
Hi ,
Just wanted to provide some feed back from our recent tour.
It was certainly a trip of the life time for both me and my wife.
One of those ‘buck list’ opportunities that went off without a hitch.
We'd enjoyed all of the tour immensely.
But the star was certainly the Tour Director.
Two thumbs up to Jusuf.
The whole trip was very well organized and managed by Jusuf, from the very first minute I'd met him in Delhi to sadly the end of our trip. In all he took extremely good care of all of us on the trip – he was very professional, highly informative, kept us entertained with jokes and shared his personal life experiences that touched us all.
He left us with an unforgettable memory.
A big Thank You Jusuf.
He would have to be one of the best tours guide I have ever meet travelling in the last ten years. His caring nature made us all feel safe in the hassle and bustle that is India.
Also special thanks to his support team along the way, they also made us feel safe to allow us to enjoy the tour.
Special mention all to our ‘Welcome Director’ Raj. What a nice and caring guy.
I look forward to my next trip with On the Go Tours in Egypt. ”
Having just returned from the Taj & Raj tour I can certainly say this the trip of the life time for both me and my wife.
I look forward to my next trip with On the Go Tours in Egypt. ”
Our tour was amazing, everything went to plan and our guide was an absolute legend. His knowledge and passion about his country gave us all an intimate insight into the history up to present day and what the future holds for India, I feel privileged to have shared this experience with our group and Yusuf was the best leader ever . ”
Really enjoyed the trip, well organised and good value for the money spent.”
Yousef is thoroughly professional, very knowledgable and extremely warm and welcoming. We could not have asked for anything more from him. No problem was too much for him to sort out and he never lost his cool. His humour was a delight. I cannot praise him enough. He truly made the holiday for us.”
We had an absolutely amazing time! The best thing about our tour was the tour guide. Yusuf was informative, professional, friendly, helpful and always willing to answer questions. In addition to the many monuments we visited the real highlights of the trip were the walk through the streets, the rickshaw ride through the market and the group dinners where entertainment was provided. This was my first organized tour as I usually travel independently and I was pleasantly surprised that we were not rushed or herded around. ”
Amazing tour, Amazing guide.
Yusuf very informative and looked after us all very well. We had different guide for Shimla Gaurav also very good.
A wonderful experience with a great group of people. Hope to return one day.
Would be very happy to recommend On the Go tours. ”
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The trip was very organised and there were guides, taxi drivers ready to go at each point inc our journeys on trains and trips to and from the airport. The Shimla trip was lovely and certainly orthwhile. The trip notes are very good and useful once home and looking back over the photos.The guides we had were very experienced and gave us some history and background information.”
