Uncover India’s iconic landmarks and wildlife while exploring famed cities and beautiful palaces, seeking tigers and spending a night in a heritage fort hotel

Your discovery of India begins as we meet the Tour Manager at London Heathrow, before a direct evening flight to India. Along with our group, we board the plane for an overnight journey to this magical and captivating country. Your holiday takes in historic cities such as the buzzing capital, Delhi, spellbinding palaces and wild landscapes where majestic animals wander free.

After touching down in Delhi this morning, we make our way to our five-star hotel where there's time to unwind. With an on-site spa and an outdoor pool, there are many ways to relax before dinner this evening.

Delhi is a lively and colourful metropolis where old and new live side by side. For those wishing to explore the local area, our hotel is a short distance from the ruins of a 14th-century Tughlaq fortress. A more modern site is the remarkable Baha'i temple, constructed in the 1980s, which resembles a lotus flower.

Back at our hotel this evening, we enjoy dinner in the restaurant.

Founded in 1648 by Shah Jahan, Delhi has many spectacular sights which we uncover today. Out tour starts with a visit to the 17th-century Jama Masjid mosque before we enjoy a wonderful rickshaw ride through the lively stalls of Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk bazaars, passing the striking Red Fort and view the Gandhi memorial Raj Ghat.

There is free time to enjoy lunch before a sightseeing tour of New Delhi's wide avenues and colonial architecture, partly designed by the notable architect Edward Lutyens. New Delhi's ceremonial centre, Kartavya Path, contains India Gate which commemorates Indian soldiers killed during World War One. At the other end is Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of India's president. After visiting the opulent 16th-century tomb of Mughal emperor Humayun, our tour ends at the Gandhi Smriti Museum. Here, 'Father of the Nation' Mahatma Gandhi spent his final days, and we learn about his life through informative artefacts and personal effects.

We return to our hotel this evening in time for dinner.

Today is a highlight of our visit to India as we leave Delhi on the Gatimaan Express bound for Agra in AC Chair Class. On arrival we head straight to the city's most famous attraction, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World - the Taj Mahal. This UNESCO World Heritage mausoleum was built by emperor Shah Jahan to honour his wife Mumtaz Mahal and stands as a monument to undying love. Regarded as the pinnacle of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is believed to be the most beautiful building ever built.

After a guided tour of the iconic monument and its magnificent gardens we check in to our hotel, where there is time to relax before a visit to the imposing red sandstone Agra Fort. The centrepiece of this historic complex is the Musamman Burj, an octagonal tower where Shah Jahan spent the final eight years of his life imprisoned in view of the Taj Mahal. Inside the fort are exquisite specimens of Mughal architecture, including the Moti Masjid - a white marble mosque.

After a day of sightseeing, we return to our hotel for dinner.

Leaving Agra after breakfast this morning, we board a comfortable coach for our journey into Rajasthan, travelling into rural India.

We stop for lunch at Laxmi Vilas enroute to Abhaneri - originally known as the 'City of Brightness', this timeless town sits peacefully these days but was once ruled by the Chahaman dynasty. Here, we visit the Chand Baori, or Moon Well, one of the oldest and deepest step wells in India. A marvel of ancient engineering and striking design, this innovative way of sourcing water during the region's hot summers dates back to the 8th century. The site also contains a historic palace and adjoins the Harshat Mata Temple.

Leaving Abhaneri, we continue to our next hotel on the edge of Ranthambore National Park. On arrival this evening, we dine in the hotel restaurant.

After a relaxed morning and leisurely breakfast a naturalist joins us to discuss the region's wildlife. A highlight of our tour follows lunch as we venture into Ranthambore National Park. Climbing aboard open-topped safari vehicles called 'canters', we embark on a safari into this fascinating wilderness. Declared a Project Tiger Reserve in 1973, it is possible to see a magnificent Bengal tiger in the wild. These regal animals are elusive, but we may be fortunate to see one basking in the sun or prowling their domain.

While Bengal tigers are the main attraction, there are many other incredible species to make our safari memorable - as leopards, hyenas, caracals, crocodiles, mongooses, cobras, pythons and jackals also stalk the landscape.

We return to our hotel for free time. Over dinner at our hotel this evening, there's a chance to discuss the day's viewing and the wildlife we may have been lucky enough to witness.

Rising early, we set out into the nature reserve on a morning safari. Guided by a local naturalist who is familiar with the animals' movements, we have a good chance of spotting a tiger.

Following breakfast back at our hotel, you're free to enjoy a leisurely morning. After lunch, we travel deeper into Rajasthan, viewing everyday life from the windows of our comfortable coach.

Arriving in Jaipur this evening, there is time to unwind before dinner in the hotel. The stunning hues of the 'Pink City' date back to the 19th century. As the citizens prepared for the visit of the Prince of Wales in 1876, the local ruler - Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II - decided to paint the city in shades of resplendent pink, the colour of hospitality. The prince, who later became King Edward VII, named Jaipur the 'Pink City', and the title has remained. One year later, the Queen of Jaipur declared herself a fan of pink so the maharaja passed a law stating all future buildings should be that colour.

After breakfast, we travel to the remarkable Amber Fort, believed to have been built for the Rajput maharajas around 1600. Nearing the fort, we board Jeeps up to hilltop entrance. This UNESCO-listed palace first appears almost as a mirage on top of the Aravalli Hills as the sun casts its morning glow. Exploring the palace's flamboyant rooms and ornamental Charbagh garden, with a backdrop of the ancient mountain range, it's easy to be spellbound by this reminder of Rajasthan's glorious history.

Our sightseeing continues in the afternoon with a visit to the 17th-century City Palace, a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Later, we travel to the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory. One of Jaipur's most renowned sights is the Palace of the Winds, with its façade of pink and yellow sandstone. Five storeys of intricate lattice work dotted with 953 small windows lend a honeycomb effect that originally allowed cool air to flow into the palace, making the interior a more appealing place during summer.

Returning to our hotel, we enjoy dinner in the restaurant.

Boarding our coach after breakfast, we travel through the Indian countryside to Tijara, arriving early afternoon. A short transfer by Jeep takes us up to our hotel - a fantastic 19th-century hilltop fort.

This verdant oasis rising above semi-arid surroundings was once the dream project of the Maharaja of Alwar. Construction began in 1835, but the nine-acre site was left unfinished after his death and later abandoned. Now restored, guests can immerse themselves in the lifestyle of maharajas while relaxing on the colonnaded verandas or strolling the ramparts at sunset. This evocative atmosphere is increased by its seven-terraced hanging gardens, with splashes of colour provided by jacaranda and 'golden shower' amaltas trees among the jungle flora.

After lunch at the hotel, there's a free afternoon to relax in the sunken hillside pool or admire the lotus pond. Alternatively, you could opt to take part in an included pottery spinning class on the terrace or indulge in afternoon tea. Later, we enjoy dinner before a cultural dance show - an authentic way to conclude our time in mystical Rajasthan.

Rising early, we close the final corner of India's Golden Triangle by returning to Delhi, with a picnic breakfast provided by our hotel.

This stunning part of India has been revealed through its magical palaces and spectacular wildlife on our journey from Delhi to Agra and Jaipur. A guided tour through the capital's energetic bazaars on rickshaws provided an up-close insight into daily life in the city, with a contrasting experience at the iconic Taj Mahal. From seeking out tigers in their natural habitat to enjoying a Jeep ride up to Jaipur's Amber Fort and relaxing in the serene surroundings of our Tijara hilltop fort, we have experienced fine examples of India's acclaimed majesty and charm.

Arriving at Delhi airport, we board our direct flight back to London Heathrow where your remarkable Indian holiday draws to a close.

Our Classic range is what we're known for. Enjoy curated moments with plenty of inclusions. Centrally located hotels, premium travel options and engaging group tours with a seasoned expert are included. You'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. *Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

Running 188km from Delhi to Agra in a journey that takes just over an hour and a half, this was India's first semi-high-speed train. The Gatimaan Express first operated in early 2016. On board, you can relax in fully air-conditioned carriages, and enjoy the passing Indian scenery.

The Shatabdi Express trains are some of the fastest in India and are the pride of Indian Railways. Fully air-conditioned and of a far superior standard to most Indian trains, the Shatabdi Express apparently always arrives at the station's best platform! The average speed on most lines is 68mph although the service between Delhi and Kalka and Chandigarh to Delhi can reach speeds of 80mph. During our journeys, we travel in air-conditioned Chair Class.

The 5-Star Hotel Clarks Shiraz is just down the road from the world-acclaimed Taj Mahal and within easy reach of many of Agra's best attractions. The hotel boasts excellent facilities, including a swimming pool, games room, beauty salon, two restaurants and a rooftop bar with views of the Taj Mahal. The spacious air-conditioned rooms are decorated in modern western style and are well equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, minibar, safe and tea & coffee-making facilities.

This 5-Star hotel is located in the south of India's capital and includes two restaurants which serve cuisine from all around the world, a coffee bar, and an entire lounge dedicated to desserts. There's also a fitness centre, an outdoor pool and a spa on site which provides a range of wellness treatments. The modern and spacious guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, telephone and tea & coffee-making facilities.

This highly rated hotel near the Ranthambore National Park offers excellent 4-Star accommodation and a high standard of service. It provides two dining options and an outdoor pool. At Ingredients restaurant, guests are entertained with Rajasthani cultural performances, while enjoying a buffet of Indian, Chinese and continental dishes. Refreshing drinks are served at the Fuchsia Bar. Air-conditioned guest rooms feature modern décor and warm lighting, with private balconies. They are equipped with flatscreen TV, seating area, desk, safe, tea & coffee-making facilities and a hairdryer.

Located near the city's airport and the jungle of the Jhalana State Park, this contemporary 4-Star hotel offers a modern interpretation of traditional Rajasthani style. A rooftop pool and bar area is a great place to admire views of the city and mountains with a sundowner, while local and international cuisines can be savoured at the on-site restaurant. Guest rooms are stylish and spacious, and come equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, sofa and tea & coffee-making facilities.

Occupying a stunning hilltop position in the Rajasthan countryside, this 4-Star heritage hotel dates from the mid-19th century. Originally envisaged as the home of a maharaja, the nine-acre site was soon abandoned before being adapted into a hotel. Boasting seven tiered gardens, ramparts, terraces and verandas - as well as a sunken pool and a lotus pond - the former fort evokes India's mystical past. Visitors can relax in the Marigold Bar or dine on farm-to-table cuisine at the restaurant. Guest rooms are individually decorated and come equipped with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, minibar, tea & coffee-making facilities and complimentary toiletries.

Near Ranthambore National Park, this 4-Star palace-style hotel is one of the oldest in the area and decorated in the iconic white architectural style of a traditional haveli. Laid out around an elegant courtyard, facilities include a spa, wellness centre and sauna, as well as a restaurant. Air-conditioned guest rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, tea & coffee-making facilities and complimentary toiletries.

• Upgrade your flight to Premium Economy from £425 per person each way

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.

We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.

For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.