Golden Triangle

The perfect introduction to the highlights and wildlife of northern India.

Designed specifically for nature lovers this tour visits the three most important national parks of Rajasthan – the Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary and the tiger reserves at Ranthambore and Sariska, one the royal hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Rajasthan. Add to this the lovely ‘pink city' of Jaipur, the emotive beauty of the Taj Mahal and the vibrancy of Delhi's streets for an incredible Indian experience.

Where are you going?

Day 1: Arrive Delhi and transfer to hotel. Morning sightseeing takes in the highlights of New Delhi and in the afternoon visit the largest mosque in Asia, Jama Masjid, the Red Fort and the Gandhi Memorial.

Day 2: Drive to Sariska. Evening is the best time for a jeep safari in the National Park. There are about 35 tigers at Sariska; other predators include panther, jungle cat, jackal, hyena, and fox. Also found are sambhar, chital, wild boar, hare, Nilgai, civet, four-horned antelope, gaur (Indian bison) and porcupine.

Days 3 & 4: Jaipur, the ‘Pink City' is one of Rajasthan's finest. You can approach the magnificent Amber Fort on the back of a decorated elephant. The Palace of the Winds, with its courtyards and gardens is a perfect blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.

Days 5 & 6: An 8th century fort dominates scenic Ranthambhore, one of the original Project Tiger Parks and home to numerous bird and animal species. Take an evening drive into the park to see deer, birds and monkeys. If we are lucky enough, we may even see one of the resident Bengal tigers although the park, with its lakes, crags and ruined pavilions, is well worth a visit in itself.

Day 7: In Bhandarej we stay in the Bhadrawati Palace . A blend of Mughal and Rajputana architecture, it has courtyards, arched windows, traditionally painted verandahs and front lawns. The nearby Bhangarh village with its temples and historical sites has a history, which dates back to 11th century.

Day 8: Originally used by the Maharajah of Bharatpur and his guests for duck shooting, the Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary now has more than 400 species of local and migratory birds and is renowned as one of the world's finest bird sanctuaries.

Day 9: Deserted Fatehpur Sikri is poignant testimony to the achievements of the Mughal emperor, Akbar. The city, built in red sandstone to commemorate the birth of his son, is a fine example of Mughal Architecture and is usually crowded with pilgrims. The Taj Mahal is a spectacular monument; built by Emperor Shahjahan in pure white marble in memory of his beloved Mumtaz. Akbar's magnificent Red Fort dominates central Agra .

Day 10: Afternoon return to Delhi and transfer to the airport.