The kaleidoscopic sights of this colourful country take your breath away. Our Indian rail tour takes in the Red and Amber Forts, historic temples, beautiful palaces and ornate gardens, as we visit Delhi, the 'Pink City' of Jaipur and Agra with its white marble icon, the Taj Mahal.
An escorted experience and all travel arrangements
Comfortable accommodation in your destination
Delicious meals included
Exciting excursions and free time to explore
ITC Mughal, Agra
The 5-Star ITC Mughal in Agra is set in 35 acres of gardens close to the city centre and the Taj Mahal. Part of the Sheraton group, this modern hotel has four restaurants serving a selection of Indian, Oriental and international cuisine, as well as a lobby bar which offers a selection of drinks and light snacks.
Taj Palace, New Delhi
The opulent 5-star Taj Palace Hotel is perfectly located in the heart of New Delhi. The hotel has a selection of restaurants offering Indian, Vietnamese, Italian and French cuisine, a choice of bars and a tea lounge.
ITC Rajputana Sheraton, Jaipur
The 5-Star ITC Rajputana Sheraton is located 500 metres from the bustling centre of Jaipur and combines modern rooms and excellent amenities with architecture influenced by Rajasthan's history.
The Oberoi Cecil Hotel, Shimla
The wonderful 5-Star Oberoi Cecil Hotel in Shimla is reminiscent of a bygone era, a celebration of colonial elegance and grace. Restored to its original grandeur with wooden floors and period furniture, it boasts fabulous views of the mountains and valleys.
Days 1-2: Fly to Delhi
We depart London Heathrow on our flight to Delhi, arriving late morning on Day 2. Delhi is one of India's most colourful and exciting metropolises,
Day 3: By train to Shimla
We leave Delhi on the Shatabdi Express to Kalka. Here we board the UNESCO-listed narrow-gauge Shivalik Express, which is also affectionately referred to as the 'Toy Train'. Covering a journey of 96km, the train gradually passes through the Shivalik foothills of the Himalayas, passing over 864 bridges and through 102 tunnels on its journey to Shimla.
Days 4-5: Shimla
We begin our exploration of Shimla with a sightseeing tour, of the town's colonial heritage. We begin at the Viceregal Lodge, the summer seat of the viceroys until the 1940s.
Days 6-7: Exploring Old and New Delhi
We depart Shimla and return back to Delhi, for two more nights. On Day 7 we visit Old Delhi, taking a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Delhi's bazaar for an incredible insight into the lives of the millions of people who live in the city.
Day 8: The Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
We join the southbound Gatimaan Express early this morning to Agra. On arrival we visit Agra's imposing Red Fort, originating from the 15th century and considered India's most important fortification.
Day 9: Fatehpur Sikri
We depart Agra by coach, stopping at Fatehpur Sikri, a perfectly preserved ancient red sandstone city.
Days 10-11: Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park is renowned as one of the best places in the world to spot wild Bengal tigers, and we head out on a game drive this afternoon to try to catch a glimpse of these majestic, elusive creatures, travelling in open-topped safari vehicles called 'Canters' which are for the exclusive use of Great Rail Journeys customers. We are treated to a further morning game drive on Day 11, increasing our chances of observing and photographing the activities of the tiger, as well as the myriad of other rare native wildlife that can be found here.
Day 12: Jaipur
We begin our stay in the 'Pink City' with full-day sightseeing tour, travelling by Jeep to the Amber Fort, located high on a hillside overlooking a lake. We have the chance to explore some of the ornate rooms within the palace complex before we continue our tour, seeing the ornately decorated City Palace, home to the current Maharajah of Jaipur, as well as the early 18th century UNESCO listed Astronomical Observatory.
Days 13-14: Return to Delhi and home
This afternoon we drive back to Delhi, where we spend our final evening. On Day 14, we transfer to the airport for our flight to London, arriving late in the early evening.
Please note, prices listed are guide prices only and are based on 2 people sharing and don't include any additional supplements. Holiday prices are fluid and dynamic and may be changed at a moment's notice, prior to booking, at which point they are confirmed. Please call the team free on 0800 707 6229 for more departure dates available and a quote.
