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Journey into the very heart and soul of northern India on this epic rail journey. Imagine standing amidst the labyrinthine alleys of old Delhi, where every whisper seems to carry a millennia of tales. As we transition, Jaipur unfolds, a city drenched in the colours of the royal sunsets. There’s the pristine wilderness of Ranthambore, where nature pens her most compelling narratives. Agra beckons next, with the Taj Mahal casting its timeless silhouette against the sky—a love letter in marble. From here we head north, to the spiritual tapestry of Amritsar, the architectural marvel of Chandigarh, and the cool, colonial elegance of Shimla. And like a well-penned story, we return to where we began, Delhi.
What's Included
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International & domestic flights
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First class train tickets
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Expert guides and private drivers
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Luxury & characterful accommodation
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Dedicated Yonder support 24/7
Sample itinerary in full
Remember: Every Yonder itinerary is uniquely created to suit our individual clients. Destinations, hotels, lengths of stay and even modes of transport are all decided by you, with the help of our local knowledge and expert guidance.
DAYS 1-3 | Delhi
When you arrive in Delhi you’ll be met by your private Yonder driver who will accommodate your every whim. Check in at The Imperial, Delhi’s great colonial era hotel, and relax after your long haul flight. Once you’ve recuperated, you’ll venture forth with your guide into Old Delhi by rickshaw to discover the sights, sounds and smells of the mesmerising maze of alleyways. You’ll then swap from peddle power to your air conditioned car to experience Delhi’s other major attractions including Humayun’s tomb, Raj Ghat (or Gandhi’s eternal flame) and India Gate along with the presidential and secretariat buildings.
Highlights
Delhi full day city tour
(Included full-day tour)
While Old Delhi unravels the old charm and speaks volumes about India’s history, culture, and tradition, enchanting New Delhi exhibits the picture of modern India. The tour will begin with a visit to the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. It was built in red sandstone and marble by more than 5000 artisans. Later, visit Chandni Chowk, Asia’s largest wholesale market, a massive area packed with shops, bazaars, and people (most of the shops remain closed on Sundays). Drive past the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Also, visit the Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Proceed towards New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind. The first stop will be a UNESCO World Heritage site – Qutub Minar, the second tallest minar in India. It is made of red stone and marble, covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Qur’an. Later, visit the 16th-century Humayun’s Tomb, the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style and a precursor to the Taj Mahal. The tour of Imperial Delhi will also include a drive past India Gate, the 42m high War Memorial Arch, the Parliament House, the Secretariat buildings, and the Vice Regal Palace, now the official residence of the President of India.
Your included hotel
The Imperial
Your alternative hotel choices
The Lodhi
The Claridges
DAYS 3-6 | Train to Jaipur
We embark on our journey to the Pink City, Jaipur, on the morning express train. As Delhi’s cityscape gives way to the rustic charm of Rajasthan’s landscapes, enjoy the rhythmic rattle of the train wheels and the unfolding spectacle outside your window. Each mile covered is a step closer to a new chapter in our Indian tale. The pink city never fails to deliver. The sounds, sights and sounds of this royal capital are spellbinding. You’ll be bowled over by the architecture and the forward thinking of the maharajas who built the city, its palaces and observatory. And perhaps the crowning glory is the spectacular fairytale Ajmer Fort high on a hill a short drive from Jaipur. Your home from home, the Rambagh Palace, is befitting of the stature of the city.
Highlights
Jaipur City Palace tour
(Included half-day tour)
The City Palace is a captivating architectural marvel that seamlessly blends elements from various styles, such as Mughal, European, Rajput, and the Indian Shilpa Shastra. This exquisite design is evident in its array of palaces, pavilions, gardens, and temples. The palace complex now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, a significant cultural repository. Among the many striking structures within the complex, the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Mukut Mahal, Maharani’s Palace, and Shri Govind Dev Temple stand out as prominent and frequently visited highlights.
Jeep ride at Amber Fort
(Included half-day tour)
The journey to the fort through Amber village is truly picturesque and offers a glimpse into the vibrant Rajasthani culture. Upon reaching the summit of Amer Fort, take a leisurely stroll through the expansive complex of courtyards and halls. The Amer Fort, constructed by Raja Man Singh I in the 16th century and later completed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century, boasts grand architecture. Its expansive ramparts, sequence of gates, and cobblestone pathways provide a commanding view over Maota Lake. Prominent structures within the fort include the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Jai Mandir, and the Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure).
Your included hotel
Rambagh Palace
Your alternative hotel choices
Rajmahal Palace
Samode Haveli
DAYS 6-9 | Ranthambore National Park
We bid adieu to the Pink City and board our train to Ranthambore. The urban landscape transforms into pastoral scenes, dotted with villages, where life moves at a different pace. As the journey unfolds, the anticipation of entering the land of the majestic Bengal tiger builds. Upon arrival you’ll be met by your private driver and whisked to the comfort of Sher Bagh, a spellbinding tented camp on the edge of the national park. Over the next couple of days, you’ll venture out into the beautiful national park on four game drives. Hearts will be racing at the prospect of an encounter with ferocious felines as well as many other majestic creatures that call Ranthambore home.
Highlights
Private tiger safari
(Included full-day tour)
Whilst in Ranthambore you will enjoy two private tiger safaris. For the first, it’s an early start to be in the national park for sunrise. Your Sher Bagh driver and naturalist guide will know the areas most likely to result in a tiger sighting. While you’re out on safari, you’ll almost certainly see a monkey troop or two, while deer and crocs are ubiquitous. Bird life, from owls to eagles and from kingfishers to hoopoes, is in plentiful supply and if you are lucky enough to come across a tiger or leopard kill, you might find hyenas or jackals scavenging. Sloth bears also call this magical place home. You’ll get back to the hotel to enjoy an early lunch before setting off into the park again for your second safari.
Your included hotel
Sher Bagh
Your alternative hotel choices
Khem Villas
Aman-i-Khas
DAYS 9-11 | Train to Agra & The Taj Mahal
As we bid farewell to Ranthambore’s wild realm, we board the commuter train towards Agra, the city of the iconic Taj Mahal. Prepare to witness one of the world’s most celebrated symbols of love. On arrival in Agra, you’ll be met by your private driver and whisked to the Oberoi Amarvilas with its direct view towards the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal, the world-famous ivory-white mausoleum, a sublime symbol of love, is even more ethereal in the twilight. The warm rays of the setting sun cast an almost mystical glow on the marble structure, its reflection shimmering in the tranquil waters of the Yamuna river. Walk through the beautiful gardens, adorned with neatly trimmed trees and flowerbeds, and feel the soothing coolness of the marble under your feet as you approach the monument. The intricate carvings, the delicate filigree work, the glittering inlay stones – each detail telling a story of passion and craftsmanship. As the sun sinks further, the sky turns into a canvas of pastel shades, a fitting backdrop to this incredible spectacle. The tranquillity of the moment, coupled with the monument’s architectural brilliance, is a profoundly moving experience.
Highlights
Taj Mahal sunrise walk
(Included half-day tour)
It is fitting to witness the extraordinary monument, the Taj Mahal (closed on Friday), during the first light of day, as its exemplary beauty is truly awe-inspiring and will leave an indelible memory. This early time of day is when the site is least crowded, providing a peaceful and serene experience of the world’s most romantic landmark.
Tour of Agra Fort
(Included half-day tour)
Known as the Red Fort of Agra, this walled imperial city was founded in 1565 by the Emperor Akbar (1556-1605). It’s a well-deserving UNESCO World Heritage site located just 2.5 kilometres from the famous Taj Mahal. The palaces, grand mosques, and elaborate public halls within the fort are crafted from pink-red sandstone, bearing testament to an era when Indo-Muslim art, strongly influenced by Persia, flourished. Emperor Shah Jahan, known for constructing the Taj Mahal in memory of his deceased wife, was later imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb within the Agra Fort. Shah Jahan is said to have passed away in the Musamman Burj, a marble tower he himself had built, providing one of the most captivating views of the Taj Mahal.
Your included hotel
Oberoi Amarvilas
Your alternative hotel choices
Trident Agra
DAYS 11-12 | Train to Delhi
We embark on our return journey to the nation’s capital, Delhi. Aboard the train, the rural charm of India flits by, an endless stream of lush fields, villages, and the daily rhythms of life. The trip is a gentle winding down from the emotional heights of the Taj, a chance to reflect on our shared experiences and anticipate the adventures still to come. As the silhouette of Delhi begins to take shape in the distance, the city welcomes us back, a home away from home, a familiar tapestry of chaos and charm. The day ends with a reconnection with Delhi’s bustling energy, and a renewed appreciation for the city’s historical and cultural richness. On arrival you’ll be met by your driver and spirited across town to the Imperial Hotel where you’ll have a chance to catch your breath and prepare for the next stage of your adventure.
Your included hotel
The Imperial
Your alternative hotel choices
The Claridges
The Lodhi
DAYS 12-14 | Train to Amritsar
As dawn breaks, we find ourselves on the move again. The destination? The spiritual heart of Punjab, Amritsar. Upon arrival, the city greets us with a warm hug of hospitality, its unique blend of spiritual sanctity and cultural vibrancy immediately palpable. Once again you’re met by your private driver for the brief journey to your hotel, Ranjit’s Svaasa. The day ends with anticipation – for tomorrow, we will explore the soul of this resilient city.
Highlights
Private Amritsar city tour
(Included full-day tour)
Discover the delights of Amritsar with your private driver and guide. You’ll head to the Golden Temple and have an opportunity to wander around on your own to take in the magnitude of it. You’ll also have time to visit the markets adjacent to the temple before heading off to the wonderfully curated Partition Museum. The highlight of the day will be an evening excursion to the Wagah border to watch the Beating of the Retreat.
Your included hotel
Ranjit’s Svaasa
Your alternative hotel choices
Taj Swarna
DAYS 14-15 | Train to Chandigarh
We say our goodbyes to the spiritual charm of Amritsar and journey onward to the architectural wonder that is Chandigar, a marvel of urban planning and modern architecture, set amidst the backdrop of the Shivalik hills. The serene gardens, broad avenues, and the orderly layout offer a different perspective on the vibrant chaos that characterises most Indian cities.
Highlights
Private Chandigarh city tour
(Included full day tour)
On this private guided tour you’ll see the Capital Complex, a group of three wonderful structures, the Secretariat, the High Court, and the Legislative Assembly. Then visit Rock Garden, a site that has converted industrial waste and throw away items as pieces of art. Later visit the beautiful Sukhna Lake (wish-fulfilled), is a venue for water sports like yachting and rowing and has the largest rowing channel in Asia. It is popular as a place to stroll or to just relax and watch the world go by.
Your included hotel
Oberoi Sukhvilas
DAYS 15-18 | Train to Shimla
Today, we trade the clamour of the city for the music of the mountains. First a journey aboard the intercity train to Chandigarh, followed by a quaint Toy Train journey to Shimla. As the train huffs and puffs its way up the mountains, the symphony of the railway lines, the whistle of the locomotive and the rustle of the deodar trees interweave into a soundtrack of nostalgia. On arrival, Shimla greets us with cool mountain air, a welcome respite from the plains. Your private driver will meet you at the station and spirit you to your hotel for the night, the resplendent WildFlower Hall. The next morning you’ll take a guided tour of Shimla and, on your second day, enjoy a much needed free day to relax, unwind and take stock of your journey so far.
Highlights
Shimla Toy Train
(Included train journey)
Started in 1903, the Kalka Shimla Toy Train is now listed as a World Heritage UNESCO site. It is known for lush green mountains with scenic, misty views. The Kalka–Shimla Railway was built to connect Shimla, the summer capital of India during the British Raj, with the rest of the Indian rail system. At the time of construction 107 tunnels and 864 bridges were built throughout the course of the track.
Private Shimla city tour
(Included full-day tour)
Enjoy a private guided tour of the city in which you’ll visit the Vice Regal Lodge, which once served as the seat of power, the century old church and temple located on the Mall Road. The Scandal Point, which is located at the end of the Mall Road in Shimla, attracts large number of tourists for its scenic and picturesque view. Later explore Shimla’s famous Mall Toad. “The Mall” often described as the heart of the city is embellished with varieties of departmental stores, shops, showrooms and restaurants. It is also known as a shoppers paradise.
Your included hotel
WildFlower Hall
Your alternative hotel choices
Oberoi Cecil
DAYS 18-19 | Train to Delhi & departure
We bid farewell to the peaceful hills of Shimla and set forth towards Delhi, via Chandigarh. As the train descends, we see the transformation from the serene landscapes of Shimla to the bustling scenes of Delhi, a reflection of our journey thus far. The rhythmic rattle of the train seems to echo the experiences we’ve shared, the memories we’ve created, and the stories we’ll take back with us. On arrival your driver will spirit you back to The Imperial where you’ll have a chance to relax before your onward journey the following morning.
Your alternative hotel choices
The Imperial
The Claridges
The Lodhi
Tailor-Made Itineraries
THE YONDER DIFFERENCE
Off-the-shelf is off the menu at Yonder: from the moment you first get in touch you'll be in the hands of a senior executive who has spent years getting to know your destination first-hand. Other travel companies might talk a big game about expertise and customisation but, to blow our own trumpet for a minute, we're in a league of our own.
Hotels featured in this itinerary
The Imperial
A unique blend of Victorian, Old Colonial and Art Deco style, the iconic and historic Imperial is seriously good. Beyond the turbaned, mustachioed doormen, elegant interiors are adorned with fine art. Great rooms compiled with ... View this hotel
The Lodhi
Super hip, refined, elegant and contemporary, The Lodhi oozes luxury. There’s an art gallery, a library and cigar room, a spectacular sunken pool, a vast gym and health club. The restaurants are truly superb and the rooms sim... View this hotel
How to go Yonder
What you get for your money
This itinerary would typically cost from £4,985 inclusive of international flights staying in the specified hotels and having the services of a private chauffeur and guide.
The costs vary based on season, flights, room type and board basis. All our holidays are tailor-made and can be created around your budget.
Every Yonder itinerary is uniquely created to suit our individual clients. Destinations, hotels, lengths of stay and even modes of transport are all decided by you, with the help of our local knowledge and expert guidance.
All Yonder holidays include flights, carefully curated hotels. private drivers, expert guides and local concierges alongside 24/7 support from Yonder should it ever be needed so you know you are in safe hands.We are immensely proud of our unique and in-depth expertise of the destinations we offer. Unlike some travel companies, each hotel we feature is handpicked and personally experienced by us so we can give you the inside story. We also carefully choose our guides based on their their exhaustive knowledge and professionalism to ensure you have a perfect holiday.
What’s the process?
We love to chat. Tell us about your Yonderlust, your travel tastes, your wishes and desires. The more we know the better and we will make a few suggestions based on extensive our first-hand experience.
Once we‘ve glimpsed your travel soul we will start crafting your unique itinerary. And then we will refine it until you’re as excited as we are.
When you are ready to go Yonder you can make your reservation. We usually take a 30% deposit (but this can vary depending on your holiday). The balance payable 90 days prior to departure. Best of all, booking with Yonder really is headache free. You have complete financial protection for all holidays which include flights through our ATOL licence (11237).
And once you’ve booked, you can be absolutely sure that you’ll have someone to turn to whenever you need to. We will be there for you 24/7.
Every great journey starts with one small step
Please get in touch by phone, by email or by filling in our simple enquiry form so that our travel experts can get in touch to discuss your perfect tailor-made holiday.
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