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Map of Northern India Family Holiday including India

Tour India and visit Agra’s opulent Taj Mahal

Take the whole family on an unforgettable adventure to India, a place full of colourful characters, delicious cuisine and remarkable landscapes. Get the most out of this diverse subcontinent by tasting flavourful curries in Delhi, strolling through the Pink City of Jaipur, and exploring the depths of the lush Ranthambhore National Park. Of course, no visit to India is complete without gazing upon the Taj Mahal, an epic monument to love and one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in the world. With plenty of cultural highlights for the adults and exciting activities for the kids, this trip is bound to excite, enchant and inspire memories to last a lifetime.

Start
Delhi, India
Finish
Delhi, India
Destination
India
Style
Original
Theme
Family
Code
HHFI
Physical rating
Ages
Min 5
Group size
Min 2, Max 16

Why you'll love this trip

  • India is bursting with colour, alive with people, dripping with the powerful smells of spice and incense. Immerse yourself with the sights and smells as you walk through the markets and bazaars.

  • Nothing compares to seeing the Taj Mahal it in person in the glowing morning light. It will definitely make sense why this 17th century masterpiece has attracted worldwide acclaim.

  • Explore through the depths of the Ranthambhore National Park – it’s like the Jungle Book has been brought to life! Keep your eyes peeled for gazelle, antelopes and the stealthy Bengal tiger.

  • Discover the traditional and vibrant city of Jaipur, full of colourful ornate buildings, and understand why its known as the Pink City.

  • Experience a special stay in a 17th-century palace in Alsisar – with its grand courtyards and colourful arcades, you (and your kids!) will feel like royalty.

Is this trip right for you?

  • This trip involves some long bus and train rides, which can be tiresome but offer a quintessential experience of the Indian landscape and people.

  • Sleeper trains are clean and air-conditioned and a great way to travel long distances while still getting maximum time in each place. Beds are padded berths with sheets, pillow and blanket provided (although some families prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet).

  • We visit a number of temples on this trip, which requires a certain level of modesty. Please bring clothes that cover the arms and pants/skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot.

Itinerary
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Namaste! Welcome to India. Begin your adventure in the one of the oldest and most interesting cities in the world, Delhi. There will be a welcome meeting today at 1 pm – you can arrive any time before, as there are no activities planned. After a chance to meet the rest of the families and buy some lunch, take a guided sightseeing tour to explore the contrasts of Old and New Delhi. In the narrow streets, everything competes for space – squeeze through the Old City’s fortified walls on the way to Jama Masjid. Dominating the city’s skyline, this mosque is a social hub as much as a place of worship, and a fascinating insight into Delhi’s way of life. If you’d like, why not catch a rickshaw through the throbbing streets, packed with buses, trucks, people and cows, on the way to the brilliantly coloured Red Fort. Then, leave the crowds behind and breathe a little easier in contrasting New Delhi – broad, tree-lined avenues, and former monuments to British power. Visit the main sights – Parliament House, President House, and India Gate, before returning to the hotel.
Accommodation
  • Florence Inn or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking tour
  • Delhi - India Gate
Meals Included
There are no meals included on this day.
Special Information
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information for each member of your family. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Rise early to catch the morning sun and a train to Agra (approximately 3 hours). The city alternated with Delhi as the capital of the Moghul Empire, and it still grips to its glory days, inextricably linked with the most famous of India’s rulers. When you arrive, take some time to relax after the early start until mid-afternoon, before heading out to see the city’s big hitters. Agra’s not just all about the Taj Mahal, it’s also home to one of the finest looking forts in India, a Friday Mosque and royal tombs. Sitting along the banks of the Yamuna River, Agra Fort is part stronghold, part palace and part prison. Built in 1565 by Emperor Akbar, it was converted to a palace by Emperor Shah Jahan, and it eventually became his jail when he lost power. Enter the dark red sandstone fort by crossing the (now empty) crocodile-infested moat. Search through throne rooms and tiny but incredibly decorated mosques and climb to the top to get your first tantalising glimpse of the Taj across the river.
Accommodation
  • Raj Mahal Palace or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Not many people like really early mornings, but this one is definitely worth it. Get up before the sun to see it rise over the Taj Mahal. Watch the iconic building bathed in early morning light. Many people believe it to be the most perfectly proportioned building ever constructed; at first glance it appears to be simply white marble, but closer inspection reveals that the surface is inlaid with semi-precious stones that form stylised flowers and bowers. This is truly magical. Best known as a monument to love and loss, the Taj is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture surrounded by trimmed English gardens. Next, head east and pass the Kos Minar medieval milestones, which point the way to the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri (approximately 2 hours). Deserted after only a few years because there wasn’t enough water, the incredibly well preserved 16th century royal complex is a haven of courtyards, pavilions, ornamental gardens, the striking Jama Masjid mosque, and home to the intricately carved Rumi Sultana palace. Continue on to Sawai Madhopur and Ranthambhore National Park (approximately 2 hours) – the 'Jungle Book' brought to life!
Accommodation
  • Raj Palace Resort or Similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Agra - Taj Mahal
  • Fatehpur Sikri - Guided tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Ranthambhore National Park is one of the premier national parks of India – a place where nature has reclaimed ancient fortresses and temples, and that is also is teeming with wildlife to spot. You will make a couple of game drives during your stay here, with hopes of getting a sighting of the majestic Bengal tigers that survive among the ruined forts and temples and stalk through the jungle. Game drives take place early in the morning and in late afternoon, as this is when animals are most active. Even if the tigers are being too stealthy, the park is filled with other animals like gazelle, hyenas, sloth bears, crocodiles, jackals, three types of antelope (nilgai, sambar and chital) and leopards to watch out for.
Accommodation
  • Raj Palace Resort or Similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Ranthambhore NP - Wildlife safaris
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Special Information
Please note that during the hot summer months, Ranthambhore National Park is closed between 1 July and 30 September each year. Therefore, during this time, we alter our itinerary and take the opportunity to visit the nearby Swai Mansingh Sanctuary instead. A wide variety of interesting wildlife resides here, including hyena, sloth bear, wild boar, panther and cheetah. While there is the rare chance to spot a tiger, this should not be expected. An exciting wildlife walk and a game drive will be included here.

Intrepid requires a scanned copy of your passport bio page at time of booking to secure a permit for your Ranthambore National Park visit. Authorities at Ranthambhore NP follow a strict booking process whereby permits are issued on a first come first serve basis. If we do not receive correct passport details in time we cannot guarantee you on the tiger safari.

Head northwest to the dazzling pink city of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan (approximately 4-5 hours) in time for lunch. In the afternoon, head to the Jantar Mantar observatory – a favourite with children. The observatory houses a collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II and was completed in 1734. In the afternoon, you will have some free time as a family. Perhaps take a swim in the hotel pool or wander through the Pink City’s streets, busy with camels, motorbikes, rickshaws, and traditionally dressed Rajput men wearing colourful turbans and sporting magnificent moustaches. Enjoy a free evening in Jaipur tonight. Perhaps hit the streets of the old town for raj kachori chaat – a big fluffy chaat served with chutney, yoghurt, chilli and potato - and cool off afterwards with a lassi from Lassiwala on MI road, Jaipur's oldest and most famous lassi shop. Look out for camels carting goods and be careful of the monkeys climbing wires overhead!
Accommodation
  • Hotel Mahal Khandela or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory
Optional Activities
  • Jaipur - Hand Block printing class - Free
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Visit the sprawling City Palace, once home to the Maharaja: an amazing complex that's home to various colourful courtyard gates, fascinating museums displaying royal costumes and weaponry. The palace continues to be a royal residence even after the Jaipur kingdom merged with the Indian Union in 1949. Then it’s on to the distinctive five-storied Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, with its detailed honeycombed facade filled with concealed windows. The impressive structure makes it the most photographed building in the country, after the Taj. Royal maidens once watched the streets below through the fabulous jali (lattice screens), which hid them from prying male eyes. Today snake charmers and fortune-tellers ply their trade below the same hideaway. The rest of the day is free to explore or to find a spot to people watch and relax.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Mahal Khandela or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Jaipur - City Palace
Optional Activities
  • Jaipur - Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Wind) - INR200
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Climb the twisting roads of the Aravalli Hills and round the final bend to see the massive Amber Fort loom into view (approximately 30 minutes). Pass Maota Lake before turning uphill, past the elephant stables, to Jai Pol (Victory Gate). This is the ancient capital of the Kachhawaha Rajputs, who gave their loyalty to Moghul overlords. From the spoils of war, they gradually built a fabulous complex of royal rooms, which now make up the Amber Fort. The fallen empire’s legacy, the opulent palace is packed with elaborate rooms of lavish murals, frescoed arches and delicate jali work. Don’t miss the sparkling Mirror Palace, covered floor-to-ceiling in thousands of reflective tiles, looking down over the picturesque Moata Lake. Later in the day, head deeper into the princely state of Rajasthan. Then, leave the city behind and travel to the relaxed village of Nawalgarh (approximately 3 hours). Catch glimpses of life in the most colourful of India’s regions – sari-clad women carrying terracotta pots of water, bangles tinkling as they walk. Take a walk around the village and meet the locals before continuing to your final stop for the day, the small town of Alsisar (approximately 1.5 hours).
Accommodation
  • Alsisar Mahal or Similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Nawalgarh - Haveli Museum
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

The semi-arid village of Alsisar is full of legendary stories with its many hand-painted havelis. This morning, join your leader on a walk around the village to discovery these beautiful and ornately decorated buildings, and perhaps say hello to some of the local residents along the way. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore this peaceful town or enjoy your splendid accommodation, the Alsisar Mahal, built in the 17th century. With its grand courtyards, colourful dining arcades and heritage rooms it will certainly be a highlight of your trip. And the kids will love the pool!
Accommodation
  • Alsisar Mahal or Similar (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

After breakfast this morning, leave the countryside behind and get back into the beating rhythm of Delhi by mid-afternoon (approximately 9 hours). Use the rest of the day however you like. Practice your bargaining skills in Chandni Chowk in the maze of shops and kiosks that sell everything imaginable, buy local crafts straight from the hands of the artisan in Janpath market, or gobble down street chaats (Indian snacks, including deep fried fritters and flatbread). Hear the story behind the man at Gandhi’s house, see one last ancient structure at Qutb Minar, or relax in the Mughal gardens. No doubt you’ll like to get together in the evening with your group leader and the other families for a special dinner. Your leader will have great recommendations on where to eat.
Accommodation
  • Florence Inn or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Delhi - Connaught Place Market - Free
  • Delhi - Gandhi's Delhi Urban Adventure - INR2700
  • Delhi - Home-Cooked Delhi Urban Adventure - INR4000
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. If your family would like to spend some more time in Delhi, why not book into an Urban Adventures tour? The Made In Delhi Shopping Tour takes you to the best markets to shop, so you can find some bargains. Better yet, it’s child-friendly! Find out more information at urbanadventures.com/destination/delhi-tours. We would be more than happy to organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Cycle rickshaw, Private mini van, Train

Accommodation

Hotel (9 nights)

Included activities

  • Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking tour
  • Delhi - India Gate
  • Agra - Taj Mahal
  • Fatehpur Sikri - Guided tour
  • Ranthambhore NP - Wildlife safaris
  • Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory
  • Jaipur - City Palace
  • Nawalgarh - Haveli Museum

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

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Important notes

1. Please note that these trips are for adults and children travelling together and there must be at least one child under 18 with you. Minimum age for children on this trip is 5 years old.
2. A discount of 10% applies on this trip to children under 17 years of age at time of travel.
3. This trip starts with a welcome meeting at 1 pm on Day 1 in Delhi. This trip ends on Day 10 and you are free to leave at any time.
4. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) to secure a permit for your Ranthambore National Park visit. Authorities at Ranthambhore NP follow a strict booking process whereby permits are issued on a first come first serve basis. If we do not receive correct passport details in time we cannot guarantee you on the tiger safari.
5. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
6. Summer Itinerary - Swai Mansingh sanctuary visit instead of Ranthambore National Parkas the section of the park we visit shuts over the summer.
7. Please note travelling during major festivals such as Holi and Diwali can, at times, cause disruption the published itinerary. Please see the 'Safety' section for more details.

Essential trip information

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