India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure

Name: India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4 (1 reviews)

1 reviews

Activity

Culture

Overview

Discover the grandeur of northern India, where a royal reception and majestic wildlife await your arrival

With the three cities of the Golden Triangle, Bengal tigers of Ranthambore and countless grand fortresses, the north is India at its most evocative. Led by an expert tour leader, we explore it in style: enjoying high tea in sight of the Taj Mahal, staying in the 15th-century Neemrana Fort-Palace and dining with a charming family. Add to that the everyday wonders – smiling locals, whizzing rickshaws and flavoursome curries – and you will see why North India is such a favourite with our groups.

Key Information

Trip Code: AID
Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Premium Adventures
Countries: India
Carbon Footprint: 21kg CO2e per person per day

What's Included

All breakfasts and six dinners
All accommodation
All transport and listed activities
Expert tour leader, chosen for their experience and great customer feedback
Arrival and departure transfers

Highlights

Visit all three cities in the Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur
Gaze over the Taj Mahal while enjoying high tea at sunset
Search for the elusive tiger with two game drives in Ranthambore National Park
Stay at the glorious 15th-century Neemrana Fort-Palace
Visit the Wildlife SOS Conservation and Care centre for elephants near Agra

Itinerary

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers – Premium Adventure

First Destination: Delhi
Next Destination: Delhi

Meals included:Dinner

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

Meals included:Breakfast

First Destination: Delhi
Next Destination: Delhi

Our adventure begins in Delhi, a thrumming city full of architectural masterpieces such as as the Red Fort, India Gate and Jama Masjid (the largest mosque in India). Delhi is one of the three cities that comprise the Golden Triangle. The day is free for you to relax or explore the sites (an optional sightseeing trip can be organised).

Around 6pm, say namaste to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead.

Your tour leader then ensures a big welcome by arranging a group dinner at a local restaurant where you can try a few of the renowned dishes of northern India.

Want more time in Delhi? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Accommodation: Maidens Hotel (or similar)

Meals included:Dinner

Engage with Delhi in a meaningful way that benefits local communities, embarking on an immersive off-the-grid walking tour of Old Delhi led by true experts – former street children. Wander through lively thoroughfares and bustling alleyways rarely visited by typical tourists. The walking tour culminates at the majestic Jama Masjid, the grand Mughal-era mosque commissioned by Shah Jahan. In the afternoon, our exploration continues with a traditional sightseeing tour of New Delhi as we drive (three to four hours in total) past historic colonial landmarks, such as Rashtrapati Bhawan, Parliament House, and India Gate—a poignant memorial dedicated to soldiers of the First World War. Later, visit the exquisite UNESCO-listed Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning Mughal mausoleum crafted by Emperor Humayun’s widow, Hamida Banu Begam.

Accommodation: Maidens Hotel (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast

Say goodbye to Delhi after breakfast and head to the glorious 15th-century Neemrana Fort-Palace, a sprawling resort that extends over nine palace wings and our home for tonight.

The complex is much more than a hotel; steeped in over 500 years of history, it has hanging gardens, pools with views over the hillsides, and dromedaries (Arabian camels) that can take you on an unforgettable ride around the area (optional activity).

As the sun sets over the Aravalli Hills, enjoy the magical atmosphere as hundreds of lights sparkle across the resort.

Accommodation: Neemrana Fort-Palace Hotel (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we leave the palatial surroundings of the Neemrana Fort-Palace and drive (approximately three to four hours) to the 18th-century city of Jaipur. In the afternoon, journey through broad pink avenues of sandstone with a local tour leader to explore the colourful bazaars of Jaipur.

Next, enjoy a foodie adventure with our tour leader, feasting on delicious local snacks and street food. Sample mouth-watering Rajasthani snacks and delightful treats. We later proceed to the home of a local family for a cooking demonstration. They will happily share their stories and culture, as you learn the secrets behind a few traditional local cuisines, which is followed by dinner with the family.

Accommodation: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (or similar)
Upgrade to a deluxe room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

Set out on a full day (two to three hours in the vehicle) of sightseeing in Jaipur after breakfast. We begin by ascending to Amer Fort, a majestic hilltop stronghold constructed by the Kachwaha dynasty under Man Singh’s rule, which rises above a lake a few miles from the main city. This fortress once served as the Kachwaha dynasty’s seat before their capital relocated to Jaipur. Next, delve into the architectural marvel of the City Palace, a fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal styles and the ancestral residence of the Kachwaha Rajput clan.

Our tour continues to the Jantar Mantar, an ancient solar observatory housing impressive astronomical instruments that remain remarkably accurate. As we drive past the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), marvel at its intricate pink sandstone facade designed as a discreet viewing area for the royal women during street festivities. We conclude the day by exploring the vibrant local market within Jaipur’s historic walled city, where you can discover handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani delights.

Accommodation: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (or similar)
Upgrade to a deluxe room today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals included:Breakfast

Depart Jaipur as we set off towards Ranthambore National Park (approximately a four to five-hour drive through the villages of rural India). Along the way, stop to admire Chand Baori, a magnificent ancient stepwell in Rajasthan renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance –it’s one of the largest and deepest stepwells in the world.

Upon reaching Ranthambore, settle into our hotel, adjacent to the national park and perfectly located for our two game drives tomorrow.

Accommodation: The Tigress (or similar)
Upgrade to your own villa today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

We jump into shared 4x4s to explore Ranthambore National Park today. Once a royal hunting ground, the reserve was set up by Project Tiger in 1973, a government-backed conservation scheme, and is now home to nearly 90 tigers, plus plenty of other wildlife, including wild boars, langurs, crocodiles and more than 300 bird species.

To increase our chances of spotting the elusive tiger, we have two game drives today, one in the morning and another in the afternoon, with each taking three to four hours. Each vehicle is also joined by a Forest Guard, who are part of a national park initiative to generate employment for the nearby villages. They are skilled spotters and trackers so, though their English is sometimes very limited, they greatly improve the experience.

Accommodation: The Tigress (or similar)
Upgrade to your own villa today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Occasionally, the game drive timings or zones may be adjusted depending on government restrictions and changes in national park zonal opening/closing times. You may be in a vehicle without the leader depending on the group size.

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

The day starts with an early morning transfer to Sawai Madhopur railway station for our express train journey (approximately 2hr 15min) to Bharatpur, where we are picked up and embark on a scenic drive (approximately one to two hours) to Agra.

Once in Agra, our first stop is the magnificent Agra Fort, a symbol of Mughal grandeur constructed by Emperor Akbar. Marvel at its formidable red sandstone walls enclosing elegant palaces, mosques, and gardens, including the exquisite Pearl Mosque. Following our exploration, check into our hotel for some relaxation.

Later in the day, prepare for a unique experience as we board beautifully decorated cycle rickshaws waiting outside the hotel. Absorb the vibrant atmosphere of daily city life in Agra as we traverse the bustling streets. After a delightful 10-minute ride, arrive at Shilpagram parking, where a short walk leads us to high tea and local snacks with a stunning view of the Taj Mahal at sunset. Millions of people visit this New Wonder of the World each year, but this extra-special experience allows us the time to admire its beauty as we relax and converse together. Concluding this memorable outing, we head to a local restaurant for dinner (not included).

Accommodation: Trident Agra (or similar)
Upgrade to a room with a private patio today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Meals included:Breakfast

Wake early to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when the white-marble exterior is illuminated by the soft early light, the crowds are smaller and the birds chatter among themselves. After admiring it from the outside, we head inside, with a chance to explore the beautiful inner chambers and mausoleum, while our tour leader shares the history of this New World Wonder.

Following breakfast, embark on our journey (approximately four to five hours) back to Delhi. En-route, we stop at Wildlife SOS near Agra. Their work is dedicated to rescuing and caring for bears and elephants. At the Agra Elephant Conservation and Care Centre, we meet an education officer to learn about their vital work and commitment to rehabilitating abused elephants and advocating for their conservation through public awareness campaigns. We tour the centre and see some of the rescued elephants and hear their stories.

After this enlightening visit, we resume our drive to Delhi and check into our hotel. In the evening, join the group for a memorable final dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying the mouth-water Indian dishes and sharing tales of our adventures together.

Accommodation: Maidens Hotel (or similar)

Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, our adventure through northern India comes to an end. If you’ve still a few pages left in your travel diary, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay in Delhi. Alternatively, catch your free transfer to the airport and begin your return journey home.

Meals included:Breakfast

Dates & Prices

Skip the hassle: We’ll handle your trip from start to finish, with competitive flight prices, deposit-only payments, and full ATOL protection available.

Call us on 0203 733 5948

Your Group, Your Adventure

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Accommodation

Heritage stays and modern luxuries

The hotels we use on this Premium Rajasthan adventure are a combination of old world heritage and modern elegance. Below are the accommodations we typically use on this trip.

Upgrades are available on Day 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 of the itinerary – speak to your sales representative for more details.

Delhi: Maidens Hotel (nights 1-2 and 9)

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers – Premium Adventure

Begin and end your adventure at Maidens Hotel, one of Delhi’s great heritage properties, originally opened in 1903. Set amid leafy gardens in the Civil Lines area of north Delhi, it offers a calmer counterpoint to the capital’s intensity, while remaining well placed for exploring the city. There’s a large outdoor pool, a fitness centre, and several well-regarded dining options. The Colonial-era architecture and spacious rooms add a sense of occasion without tipping into formality.

Near Jaipur: Neemrana Fort-Palace Hotel (night 3)

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers – Premium Adventure

Transport yourself 500 years into the past with a stay at the medieval Neemrana Fort-Palace, which sprawls over the Aravalli Hills. Built in 1464, the complex is fit for a royal, with 79 rooms spread over nine wings and 14 levels, an outdoor pool with valley views, plus a gym and spa. There’s also a recreation room and the chance to take a camel cart ride.

Jaipur: Hotel Narian Niwas Palace (nights 4-5)

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers – Premium Adventure

Capturing the regal heritage of Rajasthan, this historic property was built in 1928 by General Amar Singh Ji, the then Thakur of Kanota. See the opulence of the past in the Bar Palladio, evoking the Rajput flourish and traditional Jaipur-style painted wall decal, which stands out over the bold color palette, typical of Jaipur. The hotel itself is decorated exquisitely throughout with painted frescos, opulent chandeliers and period furniture filling the property. The accommodation is spread across the property, within perfectly manicured gardens, there is also a large swimming pool, plus choice of fine-dining restaurants and casual bars.

Ranthambore: The Tigress (nights 6-7)

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers – Premium Adventure

Named for the region’s most famous resident, the award-winning Tigress is just moments from Ranthambore National Park – ideal for our game drives. Newly built with a heritage style, it has an outdoor pool, fitness centre, guava and vegetable farm, spa and indoor games room.

Agra: Trident Agra (night 8)

Spend a night at the Trident, which has 135 modern rooms with views of the landscaped gardens, pool or the Taj Mahal-inspired central courtyard. There’s a restaurant serving Mughal dishes and more, a bar and spa. It’s also designed with the environment in mind: 25 percent of the electricity is generated from solar energy and there’s an in-house water bottling plant.

Essential Information

This trip is rated Activity Level 1 (Easy). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

It is ideal for culturally curious travellers eager to explore and experience as much as possible. We cover the highlights of northern India in a short time, which means the itinerary is generally fast paced – prepare for some long days and early starts. India can be challenging, while the heat and bustle of some cities can be a little overwhelming. That said, there are peaceful spots and you will undoubtedly return with memories to last a lifetime.

Journey times: The times stated in the day-to-day itinerary are driving times and do not include photo, tea, comfort or lunch breaks. Journeys can sometimes take longer due to traffic or road damage. Additionally, fog is common in December and January, which can sometimes slow us down. Departures in these months may also experience train delays or cancellations. If a severe delay occurs, the group travels on a comfortable private bus instead.

Monuments: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India, including the Taj Mahal, and very occasionally this may mean that work is taking place at sites visited on this trip. The ASI schedule is never published, so it is not possible to warn you when work is taking place.

Festivals: Holi and Diwali

Some departures coincide with Holi and Diwali, both fascinating times to visit India. We will seek opportunities to see the festivities, though we cannot guarantee what will be happening locally during our trip – the festivals are celebrated in different ways throughout the country.

Holi typically involves people throwing coloured powders and water at each other and smearing powder on each other’s faces. This tends to be done in local communities and families, so it is not always possible to be involved (though you may see the colourful results of this boisterous festival on the streets). During Holi, local monuments and markets close, so departures over Holi have a slight adjustment to the itinerary. In Jaipur, sightseeing is limited, so where necessary we include a cultural day to see local musicians and dancers perform; there may also be an opportunity to join in: playing with colours, dancing, and enjoying food and drinks. You can also purchase the traditional white kurta outfit to look the part and avoid getting your clothes covered in the coloured powders.

During Diwali, the festival of lights to mark the start of the Hindu New Year, people may illuminate their houses and shops and sometimes celebrate on the streets with fireworks. It lasts up to five days, though it is difficult for us to predict what will be happening in the areas we visit. Where something is happening, we seek opportunities to witness the festivities.

Key information

Start hotel: Maidens Hotel, 7 Sham Nath Marg, Prema Kunj, Civil Lines, New Delhi, Delhi, 110054
Phone: +91 11 2397 5464
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time. There will be a welcome briefing around 6pm followed by a group dinner
Airport: Delhi Airport (DEL)

Getting to the start hotel

The start hotel is approximately 40 minutes’ drive from the airport. We provide free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for everyone. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.

Catching your return flight

We provide free departure transfers for everyone to Delhi Airport (DEL) from the end hotel.

Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.

India

To avoid possible problems at immigration, make sure your passport is valid for a minimum of 180 days at the time of entry into India.

Travellers from the UK, US, CA and EU normally need a visa to enter India. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/india
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/india
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/India.html

Travellers eligible for an e-visa, which includes those from the UK, US, CA and EU, can apply at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.

For more information on applying for your Indian visa, please click on this link: Indian Visa Information

New Digital Arrival Card

Travellers from the UK, US, EU and Canada must also complete a Digital Arrival Card. This can be filled online up to 72 hours before arrival via the official Indian visa website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival/. This is separate from the Indian e-visa process and this remains the same. Physical cards will remain at the arrival airport until 1 April 2026, at which point the Digital Arrival Card will be made mandatory.

All breakfasts and six dinners are included in this trip.

India is famous for its food and there is ample opportunity to try various curries such as the familiar tandoori, biriyani and rogan josh. If you are a vegetarian, India is a great destination. There are wonderful desserts and excellent beers, soft drinks and Indian specialities such as lassi, a refreshing yoghurt drink.

Allow at least 1,400-2,400 rupees (US$16-US$28) per day for lunch and dinner. In most towns we visit, there is a good selection of restaurants and a choice between Indian and Western food. Please note, service in restaurants can be quite slow. Tea and soft drinks are very cheap. A (large!) bottle of beer is approximately 300 rupees (approximately US$4).

Mineral water is widely available, but drinking water is provided in a large container in the bus to reduce our use of plastic, so please bring your own refillable water bottle.

During October/November and from March to April, the days are normally hot (around 30C-35C/86F-95F) and nights slightly cooler (18C-24C/65F-75F) but humidity is very low and little or no rain falls so it’s a great time of year to travel to this part of India.

From December to early February, it gets very cold in the early mornings and evenings (sometimes dropping to 6C/43F) and warm clothes are essential. During this time, nightly temperatures in Delhi can be very cold and only a little above freezing. The evenings and early mornings (particularly at Ranthambore National Park) can be surprisingly cool and damp too, so come prepared for both cold and warm temperatures during winter.

In July, August and September, expect very hot days and warm nights (28C-40C/82F-104F). Rain is also likely at any time from the end of June until September and can be very heavy. However, it moderates the temperatures and humidity.

As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.

We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.

This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.

You’ll also find Thriving Nature, Thriving People moments across our trips. These experiences are often a highlight of your adventure, while also benefiting the natural world or local communities.

On this trip, we:

Visit the Wildlife SOS centre in Agra to learn how rescued elephants are rehabilitated and protected from exploitation.
Join a city walking tour led by guides from the Salaam Baalak Trust, supporting former street children through skills development.

In addition, we support tiger conservation through our Foundation’s Tiger Habitat Project.

Reviews

Add new review

Glenda Horne

Added June 2025

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure

We visited in March 2025 and there were no reviews for this trip prior to our date of travel. We added on two nights before and also after the trip in Delhi to allow us to do an in depth private day tour of the city plus visit the national...

Most Inspirational Moment

Without a doubt the visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise and beating the crowds. It really will take your breath away and you will literally be taking dozens of photographs.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ajay was an excellent and very professional guide and he was always happy to answer any questions we had. Our trip went smoothly and there were no problems regarding either transport or the itinerary.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you are able to, then add on extra time in Delhi as there is so much to see and do. We were amazed at how well maintained the city is and there are lots of trees and plants wherever you go. We enjoyed this trip so much that we have booked the Discover South India premium tour for next year. One trip to India is definitely not enough.

Read all reviews

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure

Activity Level

Comfort Level

Activity

Overview

Discover the grandeur of northern India, where a royal reception and majestic wildlife await your arrival

Key Information

What's Included

Highlights

Itinerary

Dates & Prices

Skip the hassle: We’ll handle your trip from start to finish, with competitive flight prices, deposit-only payments, and full ATOL protection available.

Your Group, Your Adventure

Accommodation

Heritage stays and modern luxuries

Essential Information

Key information

Getting to the start hotel

Catching your return flight

India

Reviews

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

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India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure

Activity Level

Comfort Level

Activity

Overview

Discover the grandeur of northern India, where a royal reception and majestic wildlife await your arrival

Key Information

What's Included

Highlights

Itinerary

Dates & Prices

Skip the hassle: We’ll handle your trip from start to finish, with competitive flight prices, deposit-only payments, and full ATOL protection available.

Your Group, Your Adventure

Accommodation

Heritage stays and modern luxuries

Essential Information

Key information

Getting to the start hotel

Catching your return flight

India

Reviews

India’s Taj Mahal and Tigers - Premium Adventure

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

You may also like

Sri Lanka: Wonders & Wildlife – Premium Adventure

Discover South India - Premium Adventure

India's North & South - Premium Adventure

The Adventure Begins Here