The Golden Triangle & the Himalayas

DAYS 1 - 2: DEPART THE UK & ARRIVE IN DELHI

Fly to Delhi. On arrival, dive into an evening street food tour of Old Delhi, navigating the narrow lanes by cycle rickshaw. Enjoy jalebis, paratha flatbreads, and creamy phirni. Our local guide will take you behind the scenes to meet some chefs who've been creating fabulous food here for generations.

The next day, there is time to explore New Delhi with your guide by car, tuk-tuk, and on foot. Visit Gandhi's assassination site, the Dhobi Walas laundry, and finish at United Coffee House. In the afternoon, join a tour led by the Salaam Baalak Trust to meet and hear stories from street children, an enlightening and memorable experience.

DAYS 3 - 5: Jaipur

You'll have plenty of time in Jaipur to enjoy your palatial hotel and dig into some delicious local food experiences. We recommend including a walking tour with a local guide through the old city's trading communities. This journey into the rich tapestry of life, craftsmanship, and architecture defines this vibrant area. The historic chowkri holds a special connection to the Modi trader communities. Full of havelis, temples, public edifices, and artisanal hubs, it stands as a distinctive embodiment of the city's living heritage. The craftwork here in Jaipur is world-class.

DAY 6: Jaipur - Agra

You won't want to leave Jaipur without visiting Amber Fort. Start at Jaigarh Fort for a scenic view; admire the mix of Hindu and Mughal architecture against a backdrop of rugged hills and the fairytale terraces and ramparts reflected in Maota Lake. It's then a 20-minute walk to the fort itself: close up, marvel at the striking red sandstone and marble exterior, and explore the carvings, colourful murals, and mirrors that adorn the inside. Explore Agra Fort's palatial mosques and palaces. After lunch, visit the iconic Taj Mahal, marvelling at its intricate paintings, calligraphy, and marble work. Spend time absorbing the beauty of this magnificent site.

Day 7: Uchagaon

Break up the journey with an overnight at the quirky Fort Uchagaon. Enjoy a village walk to discover local crafts and visit the vibrant ghats on the Ganges riverbank.

Days 8 - 9: Ramnagar - Jim Corbett National Park

Visit Corbett National Park, renowned for its lush landscapes and wildlife. Enjoy two thrilling game drives, where you may spot tigers, elephants and birdlife in the park's diverse ecosystem. We suggest including two safari drives to maximise your chances of catching sight of a tiger.

Days 10 - 11: The Colonial-Era Hill Station of Nainital

Transfer to the colonial-era hill station of Nainital. Participate in informal walks and activities, including a culinary experience, a market visit, and an early morning guided walk to a local viewpoint. Take a historical walk or enjoy bird watching. Golf is also an option with advance notice.

Days 12 - 14: Binsar National Park

Travel from Nainital to Binsar via Almora. Explore Almora with a local guide, visiting Golu Devta Temple, Almora Fort, and the State Museum. After lunch, travel to Nine Furlongs in Binsar National Park, enjoying stunning views of the Himalayas. Walk or trek as much or as little as you like, from gentle strolls to full-day treks. This region has everything you'll want for a good walk, and the scenery, views, and gentle pace of life in the villages will be something you'll remember for a long time. Slightly further afield, you can visit the famous temple at Kasar Devi, where countless spiritual luminaries have meditated, or the Neem Karoli Baba Ashram at Kainchi Dham and experience the famous magnetic field, which is said to give this region its spiritual force. We recommend stopping at Lakhudivar Caves to see the Mesolithic cave paintings there.

Day 15: Return to Delhi & Fly Home

Take a train to Delhi from Kathgodam. Stay overnight in Delhi before waving goodbye and boarding your flight home.