Golden Triangle & Leopards (3 Star)

On arrival at the airport in Delhi, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel in a private, chauffeur-driven car. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax and recover from your journey.

Depending on your flight time, you may wish to join an optional food tour of Delhi. Sample the sweet and savoury flavours of Old Delhi with a visit to a 100-year-old shop renowned for its jalebis and samosas – crisp, golden pastries filled with spiced potatoes. You can also try Raj Kachori and a selection of parathas – Indian flatbreads stuffed with fillings such as cheese, cashews, chilli, and lemon. Don’t miss Kulia ki chaat, a unique street snack of fruit bowls filled with chickpeas and masala, or the rich combination of rabri-faluda. For something heartier, there’s chole bhatura – chickpea curry served with deep-fried bread – best enjoyed with a chilled glass of sweet lassi.

Delhi - Agra. This morning, your private driver will collect you from your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The day starts with a visit to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. You'll explore its impressive interior with your guide. From here, continue to Raj Ghat, the serene memorial marking the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi.

Next, visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Qutub Minar, an outstanding example of early Afghan architecture built from red sandstone and marble. You then head to another UNESCO site – Humayun’s Tomb – an elegant precursor to the Taj Mahal and a masterpiece of Mughal design.Round off the Delhi tour with a stop at India Gate, a war memorial built in 1931 to honour Indian soldiers who died during World War I. In the evening, transfer to Agra (approx 5 hours), where the evening is at leisure on arrival.

Today begins with a sunrise visit to the breathtaking Taj Mahal. Your local guide will meet you at the monument and walk you through its rich history and architectural brilliance. Take time to admire this UNESCO World Heritage Site, often hailed as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.

Next, explore Agra Fort, a grand Mughal fortress built by Emperor Akbar in 1565. Overlooking the Yamuna River, this vast red sandstone complex houses palaces, courtyards, and audience halls. You then visit the elegant tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, often referred to as the 'Baby Taj'. Overlooking the Yamuna, this was the first tomb in India built entirely of white marble and is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal in both style and design.

Later, stop at Mehtab Bagh, a tranquil riverside garden offering lovely views of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna.

This evening, you can watch an optional Mohabbatein Taj Show. Enjoy a 1.5-hour evening performance that brings the story of the Taj Mahal to life through music, dance, and dramatic storytelling – a moving tribute to one of the world’s greatest monuments to love.

Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Abhaneri - Jaipur. After breakfast, you'll begin the drive to Jaipur (approx 6 hours), stopping en route to explore two fascinating sites.

First, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the former capital of the Mughal Empire located 37 kilometres from Agra. Built in red sandstone by Emperor Akbar in honour of the Sufi saint Salim Chishti.

You then continue to Abhaneri village to see Chand Baori, one of the deepest and largest stepwells in the world. Arriving in Agra later, the evening is at leisure, or you can choose to join an optional cooking class (dinner included) - join a local family in Jaipur to learn how to prepare traditional Indian dishes and enjoy a home-cooked dinner infused with the rich flavours of Rajasthan.

This morning, meet your private guide and begin your full-day sightseeing tour of Jaipur. Begin with a visit to Amber Fort, set atop a hill overlooking Maota Lake. Enjoy a Jeep ride up and down the hill as you explore this magnificent fort, known for its grand halls, mirror work, and sweeping views.

Next, visit the City Palace, located in the heart of Jaipur. This complex showcases a striking blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture and houses an impressive collection of royal costumes, textiles, and weaponry. You will then stop at the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds – a five-storey façade built so royal women could observe street festivals while remaining unseen.

Finally, visit Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh. This evening is at leisure.

Jaipur - Jhalana Leopard Reserve - Delhi. Thousands of people flock to India's national parks every year in the hope of catching a glimpse of a Bengal tiger. But tigers aren't the only wild cats to spot in India. Jhalana Leopard Reserve is the first leopard reserve in India and one of the best places in the country to spot this even more elusive big cat.

This morning, enjoy a safari in the park, which is also home to striped hyenas, desert foxes, golden jackals, chital, and Indian palm civets. Jhalana is also a haven for bird watchers, with species such as the Indian pitta, dusky eagle-owl, and spotted owlet frequently spotted in the area.

After the safari, return to your hotel for breakfast. Later, you'll be driven back to Delhi, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel.

Your tour comes to an end this morning, after breakfast and hotel check out. An included transfer takes you to the airport for your onward flight.