Tigers, Taj and Temples

This morning, you'll start the day with a tour of New Delhi, where the wide boulevards and imposing buildings conjure up images of the British Empire at its zenith. The Lutyen’s designed Rashtrapati (formerly the Viceregal’s Lodge) is particularly impressive, whilst India Gate is one of the city’s most iconic memorials. You’ll also visit Raj Ghat, the site of Mahatma Ghandi’s cremation, now marked by a black marble plinth and memorial gardens. You’ll leave for an early afternoon flight south to Udaipur. Udaipur is sometimes called the ‘Venice of the East’, with its beautiful lakes and grandiose palaces that line the shore, an oasis in the otherwise stark and arid state of Rajasthan. It’s a short transfer fro the city’s small airport to your hotel.

Lake Pichola Hotel - Located on the western banks of Lake Pichola, this hotel is surrounded by fantastic sights and sounds. Currency exchange services are available here and there is a travel desk for more information on the area. Rooms are spacious, comfortable and en suite. (2 nights - B)

You’ll make an early start after breakfast this morning for the 180km drive to Ranthambore National Park (approx 4-5hrs.) Over the last few days in Rajasthan you’ll have become aware that this is one of India’s most colourful regions and today’s journey is an excellent opportunity to see the rural side of life. Most notable are the elegant women carrying terracotta pots of water from the village wells, dressed in saris in a myriad of colours. They and their families are the proud descendants of the heroic Rajputs who once ruled the state. On arrival Ranthambore you’ll check in to your hotel on the edge of the park.

Ranthambore National Park, covering 411 square kilometres, is one of the premier national parks of India. A wonderful blend of historical ruins and wildlife, it is the habitat of tiger, nilgai, sambar and chital (all types of antelope), sloth bear and caracal (a lynx-like cat), plus crocodile in the lake. During your two night stay here you'll make 3 game drives.

Ranthambore Forest Resort is the ultimate in comfort and hospitality. Spread over five acres, the Resort borders lush green forest, behind which mountains provide a unique backdrop. Rooms include a/c and the hotel comes complete with a pool. (2 nights - Bx2,Lx1,Dx1)

No matter how many times you’ve seen it, watching the reflections of light gradually wash over the Taj continues to have a fresh impact. Early this morning, just as the city begins to wake you’ll make the short journey by auto rickshaw to the gates of the Taj Mahal. The Taj was built as a mausoleum for Shah Jahan’s beloved wife, Mumtaz, after she died giving birth to their fourteenth child, and must surely be the world’s greatest monument to love. Architects from as far afield as Europe were commissioned to take part in its creation. At first glance, the Taj appears to be simply white marble, but closer inspection reveals that the surface is inlaid with a profusion of semi-precious stones, which form stylised flowers and bowers. Words fail to do it justice - only a visit can show you its exquisite beauty.

Although Agra is best known for the Taj Mahal, it also boasts a wonderful fort, and this afternoon you will have an opportunity to wander through its pavilions, gardens and passages. Started by Akbar and finally completed four generations later by Aurangzeb, the fort is a fusion of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, and is early evidence of the distinctive Indian style. In the Afternoon make the drive (taking approximately 5 to 6 hours) back to Delhi. En-route, you'll pay a visit to the Wildlife SOS Bear Rescue Facility. As tonight is your last evening in India your Group Leader will no doubt organise a traditional ‘last supper’.

Hotel Jivitesh provides extra space, quality services and hygienic conditions that inspire moments happiness. Rooms are complete with a/c and ensuites as well. (1 night - B)