Beyond the Golden Triangle

Key Takeaways

• A rich first-time itinerary for India combining culture, wildlife, history and heritage.
• Includes Golden Triangle highlights plus a safari for a different dimension.
• Comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and many included meals make logistics simpler.
• Best timing outside peak heat and monsoon seasons.

Introduction to Beyond the Golden Triangle

“Beyond the Golden Triangle” offers an immersive introduction to India across 10 days. Start in Delhi, where old meets new, walk the crowded markets, and ride a cycle rickshaw through Old Delhi. See the misty sunrise at the Taj Mahal in Agra. Dive into the royal pink city of Jaipur with its forts and palaces. And venture beyond the usual route with tiger safaris in Ranthambore, and calm stays at heritage and lodge-style hotels that let you savour India’s spirit away from the bustle.

History

India’s Golden Triangle – Delhi, Agra and Jaipur – reflects Mughal and Rajput grandeur, colonial influence and centuries of architectural achievement. The Taj Mahal is India’s most emblematic monument. Jaipur shows vibrant Rajput culture and royal heritage. Ranthambore connects you with India’s wildlife story and the history of royal hunting grounds turned national parks.

What’s Included

• Return flights from London
• 8 nights in a mix of 4- & 5-star, heritage hotels and lodges + 1 night in flight
• 19 meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners) + welcome drink
• Holiday Director and specialist local guide throughout
• Overseas transfers, transportation between locations, porterage

Must-See Highlights

• Delhi: Cycle rickshaw ride in Old Delhi, visit New Delhi’s imperial landmarks, and colonial architecture.
• Agra: Taj Mahal at sunrise; Agra Fort; Itmad-ud-Daulah tomb; “Baby Taj”; scenic views from Mehtab Bagh.
• Fatehpur Sikri: The deserted Mughal city with palaces and mosques.
• Ranthambore National Park: Morning and afternoon safaris seeking tigers, leopards and diverse birdlife; staying in a resort close to nature.
• Jaipur: The Pink City’s forts, the hilltop Amber Fort, City Palace, Palace of Winds, and heritage hotel stay.

Delhi Highlights

Delhi is a city of two halves. Old Delhi offers tangled lanes, spice-laden markets and cycle rickshaw rides that feel like stepping back centuries. By contrast, New Delhi reflects British colonial grandeur with wide avenues, India Gate, the Presidential Palace and parliament buildings. A visit to Humayun’s Tomb or Qutub Minar provides another layer of history, linking Mughal architecture with UNESCO recognition.

Shopping Opportunities

India’s markets are famous worldwide. Delhi’s Chandni Chowk bustles with jewellery and spices, Jaipur is renowned for colourful textiles and semi-precious stones, while Agra offers marble inlay souvenirs echoing Taj Mahal craftsmanship. While shopping is never obligatory, your guides can recommend trusted outlets.

Fatehpur Sikri Stop

On the road between Agra and Ranthambore lies Fatehpur Sikri, a perfectly preserved ghost city built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. Once the Mughal capital, it was abandoned due to water shortages but remains one of India’s most atmospheric sites. Courtyards, gateways and mosques stand intact, offering a glimpse of the empire at its height.

Practical Info

• Duration: 10 days total, including flights
• Accommodation: Heritage hotels, lodges, quality 4-&5-star in cities
• Meals: 19 included meals + welcome drink
• Transport: Flights, transfers, road travel between itinerary stops
• Guides: Holiday Director + local specialist guides
  Always check before you travel as times are subject to change.

Getting There

Flights depart from the UK. Upon arrival in Delhi, you’ll travel overland between cities and safari parks by road, using comfortable vehicles, and with all transfers included.

Food & Facilities

Stay in heritage hotels and lodges offering local ambience, courtyards, traditional decor, and regional flavours. In cities, expect full amenities. Meals include a welcome drink, varied Indian cuisine, north Indian style, Mughal influences, and local street flavours in safe, guided settings.

Evening Entertainment

Optional extras include cultural shows such as Rajasthani folk dance performances or Bollywood-style evenings in Jaipur. These experiences give a lively insight into India’s performing arts, offering contrast to the daytime focus on history and monuments.

Cultural Experiences

This itinerary doesn’t just show monuments – it immerses you in daily life. Expect colourful bazaars with textiles and handicrafts, cooking demonstrations highlighting India’s diverse cuisine, and opportunities to watch local artisans at work. In Jaipur, block printing and gemstone cutting are traditional crafts still thriving today.

Travel Tips

• Dress modestly for temples and in rural areas; carry layers for mornings/evenings.
• Be ready for early mornings (e.g. sunrise at Taj Mahal, safari starts).
• Carry sun protection and water, especially on road trips and while visiting forts.
• Bring insect repellent for safaris.
• Always check visa requirements & health advisories in advance.

Wildlife in Ranthambore

While the tiger is the star attraction, Ranthambore’s dry deciduous forest is also home to leopards, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles and over 250 species of birds. Morning and afternoon safaris maximise your chances of spotting wildlife, with open jeeps giving clear views across the park’s lakes and hills.

Events / Seasonal Info

Departures run from October 2025 through November 2028. Cooler months are ideal for safaris in Ranthambore (winter, early spring). Summers can be very hot, especially in desert areas like Jaipur. Monsoon can affect some outdoor excursions.
Always check before you travel as times are subject to change.

Beyond the Golden Triangle gives you 10 days through India’s most famous and beloved sites—Old & New Delhi, Agra at sunrise, Jaipur’s forts & palaces, and tiger safaris in Ranthambore. Designed for those who want culture, history and nature in one trip.

FAQs

Final Words

Beyond the Golden Triangle is perfect if you want all the classic must-sees of India: Delhi’s bustle, Taj Mahal’s iconic beauty, Jaipur’s royal history, plus something extra like a safari and stays in heritage properties. It’s immersive, varied and accessible; a great way to fall in love with India’s culture, its past and its wild side.

Nearby Attractions

If you have extra days or want to extend:

• Pushkar or Udaipur for lakes and smaller towns in Rajasthan.
• Jaipur outskirts: day-trip to lesser-visited forts or artisan villages.
• Delhi extension: Optional tour of modern architecture or arts districts.

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