India's Golden Triangle incl. Istanbul extension

Let's depart for our Indian holiday adventure, first stop Delhi.

We have arrived in Delhi, we meet our local guide in the airport before being transferred to our hotel in Delhi.

Let's uncover some Delhi highlights,  (pending our flight times this excursion may be the following day) we begin with a half day tour including Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, before visiting the fascinating Humayun’s Tomb, a 16th century building and the tomb of the Emperor Humayun.

Let's get together later and enjoy our first dinner at our hotel.

Evening meals are included for the nine night's stay in India. Eight nights in our hotels and one night cooking demonstration in Jaipur with dinner included.

Discover Delhi on a half day tour starting with the sights and sounds of bustling Old Delhi, we set off with a cycle rickshaw ride through the city.  Next, we visit Raj Ghat, the memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi, and see an eternal flame burning at the spot of his cremation.  Next, we pass the Jama Masjid Mosque (viewed from the outside) and visit the fascinating Bangla Sikh Temple. 

Be prepared for the transfer, download a podcast, or audio book as the transfer to Jaipur will take around five and a half hours (270km) with a few comfort stops along the way. 

We arrived to one of India's most iconic jewels - Jaipur, fondly known as the pink city. Let's check in and get ready for dinner, and an early night after our day of exploration and travel.

This morning, we’ll visit the City Palace Museum, once the splendid seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur. We’ll then discover the fascinating Jantar Mantar, an impressive collection of ancient astronomical instruments, and see the famous Hawa Mahal, or ‘Palace of Winds,’ with its intricate pink façade.

After our excursion, there’s some free time to relax before we venture off for our cooking demonstration.

In the evening, we set off to visit a local family for a cookery demonstration. We learn the art of making local Indian dishes, bread making, and afterwards enjoy a group dinner.

Let’s uncover some of the wonders of the Golden Triangle on our tour of Jaipur. We’ll take in the striking beauty of the Amber Fort, set high on a hill overlooking the peaceful Maota Lake. Let's sit back and enjoy the jeep ride up to the Forts entrance.  Marvel at the Fort’s terraces and ramparts that are beautifully reflected in the water below, offering a wonderful example of Rajput architecture. We take a stroll around Amber village to see local life before returning to our hotel for lunch.

Enjoy the rest of the afternoon to relax.

Enjoy an evening drive through Jaipur’s illuminated highlights, including Hawa Mahal, Albert Hall Museum, Jal Mahal on Amer Road, and panoramic night views from Nahargarh Fort. We also pass the brightly lit Amer Fort gates before returning to the hotel.
The tour runs in open jeeps with four to five guests per vehicle and is a relaxed, enjoyable night experience
 

Minimum numbers apply for this tour to run.

2026 this tour is bookable locally. 2027 this tour is prebook able and bookable locally, subject to availability.

This morning, we set off from Jaipur to Dholpur, travelling around 280 kilometres. Along the way, we enjoy a scenic stop at the remarkable Chand Baori Stepwell in the village of Abhaneri, one of India’s most impressive ancient stepwells. The journey takes approximately six hours, with comfort stops included.

On arrival in Dholpur, we check in to our hotel for a relaxing two-night stay. The rest of the day is free to unwind and recover after the journey.

We have arrived, let's unpack and relax after our day of discovery. We will spend the next two nights in Dolphur. 

Today brings a new experience as we enjoy a half-day guided tour of Gwalior Fort, once considered one of the most impregnable fortresses in central and northern India. Next, we’ll visit the Gujari Mahal Museum, which was originally built by Raja Man Singh for his wife, Princess Mrignayani, after she requested a palace of her own. She was royalty, after all, and nothing less would do!

Let's relax for the rest of the day, soak up the atmosphere and unwind for the rest of the day.

This morning, we depart Dholpur and travel towards Agra, beginning with a visit to the sacred pilgrimage site of Machkund Temple.

Continuing our journey, we stop to explore the remarkable deserted red sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri, often referred to as the Ghost City. Covering approximately 270 kilometres, the journey takes around three hours, including comfort stops. Built in 1569 by Emperor Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri was created in honour of the revered Saint Sheikh Salim Chisti, who foretold the birth of Akbar’s three sons. During our guided visit, we uncover the rich history and stories behind this extraordinary former capital.

On arrival in Agra, we take time to relax with a cup of tea while enjoying distant views of the Taj Mahal. On a clear day, the setting sun bathes this iconic monument in a warm golden glow, providing a memorable end to the day.

We begin the day with a magical sunrise visit to Agra’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. As the early morning light gently illuminates the marble, we admire the beauty of one of the world’s greatest symbols of love. Sunrise provides soft, natural light that is ideal for photography, bathing this iconic mausoleum in a gentle glow. Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, the Taj Mahal remains one of India’s most treasured highlights.

We then enjoy a guided visit to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India. Constructed mainly in the 16th century, this impressive red sandstone fortress played a significant role during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. From within the fort, we take in distant views of the Taj Mahal and the Yamuna River flowing alongside.

Please note:

The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays. This visit may take place at sunset instead of sunrise due to operational requirements.

We depart Agra by coach and make our way to Delhi for our final night in India. 

The transfer will take approximately five hours (237 km) with comfort stops. Sit back and relax as we make our way towards Delhi.

We have arrived in Delhi. The rest of our evening is at leisure to relax after our journey.

We say farewell to our newfound friends and fond memories of our journey in the Golden Triangle of India. We transfer to Delhi airport for our flight to Istanbul, Türkiye.

On arrival in Istanbul you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Spend the next three nights in Istanbul on a bed and breakfast basis.

*Please note: Your extension in Istanbul will be on an individual basis rather than as part of a large group.

Balat and Fener Walking Tour

Discover Istanbul on a half-day guided tour as we explore some of Istanbul’s historical treasures.

After breakfast, we travel by coach to the colourful neighbourhoods of Balat and Fener. A delight for photographers, these lively districts are famous for their vibrant streets, antique shops, quirky staircases and traditional wooden houses, perfect for capturing that ideal holiday photo. Our walk will also include a visit to a distinctive church, adding a touch of history to your morning.

Sultanahmet - Istanbul's Old City
We then continue by coach into the heart of the Old City, Sultanahmet. Here, we admire some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, including the striking Blue Mosque, the ancient Egyptian obelisks and the Roman Hippodrome. We also enjoy an exterior view of the magnificent Hagia Sophia.

During the day, we will pause for some Turkish tea or coffee, either in Balat, Fener or Sultanahmet.

Istanbul is a fascinating blend of old and new, where modern skyscrapers rise alongside centuries-old mosques, churches and palaces. The afternoon is free to enjoy at your own pace, whether you wish to continue exploring or simply relax. Your guide will be happy to suggest places to visit or hidden spots to discover.

Please note:

Restoration work is ongoing at the Blue Mosque to preserve its beauty, which may mean some areas are covered by scaffolding. 

Hagia Sophia is a working mosque, so visiting the interior may not be possible during prayer times should you wish to visit during your free time.

Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended for walking on the cobbled streets.

Enjoy a day at your own pace in Istanbul and make the most of the city’s rich history, vibrant culture and Turkish cuisine. You could visit the iconic Galata Tower and savour a slice of San Sebastian cheesecake with a cup of Turkish coffee beneath its watchful gaze. Explore the ancient wonders of Hagia Sophia, wander through the opulent rooms of Topkapi Palace, or uncover the mysterious underground Basilica Cistern.

For those who love shopping, the city offers plenty of options, from the colourful stalls of the Grand Bazaar and the fragrant Spice Market to the bustling boutiques along Istiklal Street. With so much to see and do, your free day in Istanbul promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Transfer to Istanbul Airport for your flight home