Vivid India: Taj Mahal & Ranthambore Tiger Safari

Welcome to India! On your arrival at the airport in Delhi, our representative will meet you and escort you to your hotel. After checking in, have some free time on your own to adjust to the new time zone.

After breakfast at the hotel, head for Old Delhi! Admire the magnificent Jama Masjid - India's largest mosque and enjoy a rickshaw tour through the bustling Chandni Chowk bazaar. Later, pass by the fantastic Red Fort and return to discover New Delhi.

Visit India's tallest stone tower Qutub Minar and its surrounding ancient Hindu and Muslim complex, followed by Gandhi Smriti where Gandhi has spent the last 144 days of his life. Next, drive among the city landmarks, including India Gate, President's House, Parliament House and Government Secretariat Buildings, before ending today's tour at Laxmi Narayan Temple. 

Tips: Female tourists are asked to wear robes before entering Jama Masjid. If you don't have any, you can rent one at the temple (50 rupees, at your own expense).

After breakfast, head for Jaipur. Stopovers for a coffee break or photo opportunities are possible at your request any time en route. On your arrival, check in to your hotel and then have some leisure time. 

Note: Driving times in the program are approximate, subject to the traffic, weather and road conditions.

Today, you will drive to Amber Fort, the ancient capital of the state, in which you'll also experience the royal palace. That is Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). Next, you will visit the Nahargarh Fort on your way back to Jaipur. Originally built in 1724, it is the royal military defense.

Afterward, see the gorgeous Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). In the past, its hidden windows allowed the royal ladies to watch street processions and festivals. City Palace Museum is home to superb collections of Rajasthani costumes and armory. Next visit Jantar Mantar, the largest stone observatory in the world. Drive through the pink rose residential & business areas before going back to the hotel. 

Tips: There are a lot of vendors selling goods around Amber Fort. If you have no interest in their goods, say no to them and do not show any interest at the very beginning.

Head for Ranthambore this morning, and after checking in to your hotel,  enjoy some free time. In the afternoon, start a jungle safari at Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan's first Project Tiger Reserve. You will get close to nature and meet tigers, sambar, chital, wild boar, water birds, etc. Make sure your camera is fully charged. After that, return to your hotel. 

Note: Ranthambhore National Park is closed during the monsoon season (Jul. 1 - Sep. 30).

Today continue your jungle safari at Ranthambore National Park. 

After breakfast, drive east to Agra. En route, spend some time at the former capital of Mughal Empire Fatehpur Sikri (about 1.5 hrs), one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendor at its height, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 years due to scarcity of water. Check in to your Agra hotel and then have some leisure time.

Rise early this morning to visit a World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal (closed on Friday) which frees you from the crowds and heat in the daytime. This grand mausoleum of white marble was built by the Mughal emperor in memory of his beloved wife. Later visit the Agra Fort for a glimpse of the palatial royal pavilions at the red sandstone and royal Mughal lifestyle.

Tips: A strict security check is needed before entering the Taj Mahal. Foods, plastic bags, chargers, etc are all prohibited.

Enjoy a free morning (vehicle with driver at your disposal). You can use the vehicle to explore the city or local markets for shopping. In the afternoon, return to Delhi for your flight to your next destination.