India's Golden Triangle and Taj by Moonlight

Set off this morning to explore Lutyen’s designed New Delhi and learn about the city’s British heritage. Visit the gracious Humayun’s Tomb and Qutb Minar – one of the earliest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture. Then, enjoy a drive through the wide tree-lined avenues with photo-stop visits to India Gate – the War Memorial Arch; the Parliament House as well as the Vice Regal Palace – the official residence of the President of India. In the afternoon, visit the 17th-century Jama Masjid – one of the largest mosques in Asia and complete your tour of Delhi with an exciting cycle-rickshaw ride that allows you to get under the skin of Old Delhi whilst exploring its bustling alleyways filled with spice merchants and jewellers.

Set off this morning for Agra, once the capital of the Mughal Empire and home to the inimitable Taj Mahal. En route, visit Sikandra – Emperor Akbar’s splendid red sandstone tomb. In the afternoon, visit Hessing’s Tomb, inspired by the Taj Mahal and known locally as the ‘Red Taj’. Continue to the striking tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, popularly referred to as ‘Baby Taj’ and believed to be the first monument in India to be built entirely of white marble. The day concludes with a stroll through Mehtab Bagh, a classic Mughal Garden that offers outstanding views of the Taj Mahal at sunset.

Rise early to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Built as a monument to eternal love and described by poet Rabindranath Tagore as “a teardrop on the cheek of time”, this magnificent 17th-century mausoleum made of milk-white makrana marble was created by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to the memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz. Next, visit the imposing Agra Fort, which provides an insight into the 16th-century Mughal court as well as the lifestyle of the Mughals. There will be some time at leisure this afternoon to relax by the pool before returning to the Taj Mahal in the evening to gaze upon the sublime silhouette of the Taj Mahal as a rising full moon bathes it in a thin silvery light.

Begin your day with a visit to Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted capital city of Mughal Emperor Akbar and one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. The mosque at Fatehpur Sikri is said to be a replica of the mosque in Mecca, whilst the erstwhile palaces within the complex showcase an effortless integration of Hindu and Islamic styles of architecture. Then, board the train to Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to Ranthambore National Park – India’s premier Tiger reserve.

Enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives inside the picturesque Ranthambore National Park, with medieval ruins and man-made lakes set against dry deciduous forests.

Return to the park one last time in search of the elusive tigers and sloth bears, Nilgai, hyenas and crocodiles (shared jeep safari). In the afternoon, a scenic drive through rural villages and small towns will bring you to the vibrant ‘pink city’ of Jaipur. Planned by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1727, Jaipur is an atmospheric city of bazaars, beautiful palaces, fine havelis and spectacular forts.

Begin your day with a visit to the dramatically located Amber Fort, set on a ridge above the rugged hills. A Rajput capital for over 700 years, there is plenty to explore here, from courtyard gardens and small temples to the private chambers of the Maharaja. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and enjoy the facilities at your hotel.

Set off this morning to Jaipur to visit the superb City Palace complex home to the beautiful Peacock Gate and famous Hawa Mahal, or ‘Palace of the Winds’ and the Jantar Mantar – the largest stone observatory in the world. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Transfer to Jaipur International Airport and check in for your onward flight.