India: Delhi, Rajasthan & Ranthambore — 13 Days
From Delhi's bazaars to Jaipur's palaces, desert camps, and tiger safaris across Rajasthan and central India
This 13-day itinerary moves through northern India's primary cultural and natural landmarks, beginning in Delhi and extending through Rajasthan's major cities before concluding at Ranthambore National Park and Agra. The route connects Old Delhi's markets and religious sites, the blue-washed architecture of Jodhpur, the fort complexes of Jaipur and Mehrangarh, and a two-night stay in a desert camp near Pushkar. Wildlife viewing forms the second half: a multi-day stay at Ranthambore includes sunrise and afternoon safaris in search of Bengal tigers, alongside sightings of monkeys, crocodiles, deer, peacocks, and wild boar. The itinerary concludes with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra before returning to Delhi. Throughout, the tour includes local guides, cooking demonstrations with a family in Jaipur, and accommodation ranging from hotels to traditional canvas tents. Meals comprise 12 breakfasts and four dinners; vegetarian options are available throughout.
Highlights
- Walking tour of Chawri Bazaar in Old Delhi and the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque
- Mehrangarh Fort overlooking Jodhpur, a 700-year-old hilltop fortress with views across the desert plains
- Overnight stay in traditional canvas tents with views of Savitri Devi temple near Pushkar
- Sunrise and afternoon safaris in Ranthambore National Park for tiger and wildlife viewing
- Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra with guided tour and historical context
- Cooking demonstration and dinner preparation with a local family in Jaipur
- Hawa Mahal and Amber Fort in Jaipur, including jeep transport to the hilltop fortress
- Jantar Mantar, Jaipur's ancient observatory
Day by day
1Arrival in DelhiDelhi airport to accommodation in central Delhi
Transfer from Delhi airport to accommodation in central Delhi. The remainder of the day is unscheduled, allowing time to rest and meet other group members.
2Old Delhi: Markets, Mosques & MemorialsChawri Bazaar · Jama Masjid · Rajghat Memorial · Sikh temple
A guided walking tour through Chawri Bazaar visits the narrow lanes and traditional commerce of Old Delhi, largely unchanged for centuries. The tour includes stops for local street food—chaat, lassi, and other regional specialties. The afternoon visits the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, with explanation of its religious and historical significance. The day concludes with visits to Rajghat Memorial, where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated, and a Sikh temple, illustrating the religious diversity of the city.
3Jodhpur: Exploring the Blue CityJodhpur · Delhi to Jodhpur
We fly from Delhi to Jodhpur, the 700-year-old 'blue city' set in the Thar Desert. Our guide navigates us through the maze of blue-painted architecture by tuk-tuk, weaving through the old city's bustling streets. We pause to watch the sunset over the desert landscape, then settle in for dinner as evening falls.
4Mehrangarh Fort & Bishnoi VillageMehrangarh Fort · a traditional Bishnoi village
Mehrangarh Fort, a massive hilltop fortress overlooking Jodhpur, is explored with a guide who provides historical context and points out views across the city and desert plains. The afternoon includes a visit to a traditional Bishnoi village to observe the daily life and customs of the Bishnoi people, known for their conservation practices and hospitality.
5Desert Camp near Pushkardesert camp with traditional canvas tents
Transfer to a desert camp with traditional canvas tents. The location offers views toward Savitri Devi temple. The evening includes traditional Rajasthani music and dance performances.
6Pushkar: Sacred Lake & MarketsBrahma temple · lively bazaars
Pushkar, regarded as one of India's most sacred cities, centers on a lake surrounded by temples and markets. A walking tour covers the Brahma temple and the lively bazaars. The afternoon is free for further exploration or rest at the accommodation.
7Sunrise Yoga & JaipurJaipur · before breakfast · a local family's home
An included sunrise yoga session takes place before breakfast. The group then travels to Jaipur, known as the 'Pink City' for its rose-tinted buildings The evening includes a visit to a local family's home to participate in dinner preparation.
8Jaipur: Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort & Jantar MantarHawa Mahal · Amber Fort · Jantar Mantar
The day begins at Hawa Mahal, the five-storey pink sandstone palace. Amber Fort, a hilltop fortress complex, is reached by jeep; its interior contains ornately decorated chambers and intricate artwork. The afternoon includes Jantar Mantar, an ancient astronomical observation site
9Ranthambore National Park & FortRanthambore National Park · Ranthambore Fort
We transfer to Ranthambore National Park, one of India's largest and most renowned protected areas, leaving behind the urban rush for quieter surroundings. After settling into accommodation, we begin an afternoon jungle expedition to visit Ranthambore Fort, a 10th-century structure set within the park. The expedition combines the thrill of adventure with historical discovery, moving through the landscape where wildlife and ancient architecture intersect.
10Ranthambore SafariRanthambore National Park
A sunrise safari departs early to search for Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. The park supports diverse wildlife including monkeys, crocodiles, wild boar, deer, peacocks, and leopards. A second safari may occur in the afternoon, depending on the itinerary. The remainder of the day is free for rest or exploration of the local surroundings.
11Abhaneri Stepwell & AgraAbhaneri Stepwell · I'timãd-ud-Daulah
The journey to Agra includes a stop at Abhaneri Stepwell, a fascinating water-conservation structure Upon arrival in Agra, the group visits I'timãd-ud-Daulah, affectionately known as the 'Baby Taj'
12Sunrise at the Taj Mahal & Return to DelhiTaj Mahal · hotel · South Delhi · final gathering
An early departure allows arrival at the Taj Mahal before sunrise. Our local guide shares the monument's rich history and architectural significance, guiding us to picture-perfect vantage points as golden light bathes the well-known marble structure. As one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal rewards those who witness its dawn transformation. After capturing the moment, we return to the hotel for breakfast before heading back to South Delhi. This evening, we gather for a final Indian feast, raising a glass to celebrate the memorable journey we've shared together.
13Departurehotel
Checkout and onward travel arrangements. The group leader assists with organizing transportation for departing members.
Where you go
- 1Jodhpur
- 2Mehrangarh Fort
- 3Brahma Temple
- 4Jaipur
- 5Hawa Mahal
- 6Amber Fort
- 7Jantar Mantar
- 8Taj Mahal
- 9hotel
Included
- What's Included
- Accommodation
- 2 Nights Delhi (Twin/Double Rooms) /2 Nights Jodhpur (Twin/Double Rooms) / 1 Night Desert Camp (Twin/Double Tents) / 1 Night Pushkar (Twin/Double Rooms) / 2 Nights Jaipur (Twin/Double Rooms) / 2 Nights Ranthambore (Twin/Double Rooms) / 1 Night Agra (Twin/Double Rooms) / 1 Night Delhi (Twin/Double Rooms)
- Meals
- Breakfasts: 12, Lunches: 0, Dinners: 4
- Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
- Vegetarian options available
- Local Guide
- Guided
- This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
- Wifi
- Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.