The Golden Triangle & Shimla

The Golden Triangle & Shimla

1,015 Views
13 Days
From

$3828

$3705

The Golden Triangle & Shimla

13 Days Starting and ending in Delhi, India

Visiting: Delhi, New Delhi, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Jaipur, Shahpura, Shimla

Tour operator:

Cox & Kings

Recommended For:

50 plus, Singles

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 20

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:
English
Interests:

Art, Cultural, History, Rail Tours

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From:
$3828
$3705 (USD) including Flights from the UK Operator discount: -$124

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Experience a taste of India on this outstanding introductory tour of the country’s most celebrated sights. Exploring the Golden Triangle, this journey combines imperial Delhi with the legendary Taj Mahal at Agra and a 3-night stay in the princely city of Jaipur, culminating in the beautiful hill station of Shimla.

Highlights

  • Explore Jaipur while staying in a family-run heritage hotel

  • Watch the sun set over the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh gardens

  • Ride the 'British Jewel of the Orient', the toy train to Shimla

  • Rural Rajasthan village walk & lunch

  • Half-board throughout

  • Stay in 4- & 5-star accommodation

  • Small group size - average 18 people (max 20)

Places You'll See

The Golden Triangle & Shimla

The Golden Triangle & Shimla

The Golden Triangle & Shimla

The Golden Triangle & Shimla

Itinerary

Expand All
Day 1 : Fly To Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: No Meals

Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) to Delhi with British Airways.

Day 2 : Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Taj Palace
Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive in Delhi and transfer to the Taj Palace for 1 night. Leisurely afternoon tour visiting the Jama Masjid mosque and exploring the labyrinthine streets of Old Delhi by cycle rickshaw. In the early evening, dine at Haveli Dharampura and take in views of the Red Fort from its upper terrace.

Day 3 : New Delhi - Agra
Location: New Delhi, Agra
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Trident Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Tour of New Delhi, including a drive past India Gate and the former viceregal residence. Continue to the tomb of the Mughal emperor Humayun and the Qutb Minar tower. Drive to Agra and stay at the Trident Agra for 2 nights.

Day 4 : Agra
Location: Agra
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Trident Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunrise visit to the spectacular Taj Mahal before exploring the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah and Agra Fort. Visit Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden), for sunset over the Taj Mahal.

Day 5 : Fatehpur Sikri - Jaipur
Location: Fatehpur Sikri, Jaipur
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Ramgarh Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Continue to Jaipur via the deserted sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri and Abhaneri stepwell. En route, enjoy lunch at the lavish Laxmi Vilas Palace. Stay 3 nights at Ramgarh Lodge,a maharajah’s former hunting lodge.

Day 6 : Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Ramgarh Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Morning visit to Amber Fort and the Anokhi Museum. Afternoon visit to the striking City Palace, home of the present maharajah and the curious Jantar Mantar observatory.

Day 7 : Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Ramgarh Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

A day at leisure to relax. Explore Jaipur’s many bazaars or choose from the range of optional activities including a sunrise balloon ride†.

Day 8 : Shahpura - Delhi
Location: Shahpura, Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Taj Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel to Shahpura for lunch at the opulent 300-year-old palace, visit a local NGO and walk through the local village. Continue to Delhi for an overnight stay at the Taj Palace.

Day 9 : Shimla
Location: Shimla
Accommodation: Hotel, Upgrade to a Premier Valley View from £160 per person
Accommodation Name: Oberoi Cecil
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, *Packed lunch

Take the morning train to Kalka followed by the narrow-gauge ‘toy train’ to Shimla, passing through stunning mountains. Stay 3 nights at the Oberoi Cecil in Shimla, the British summer capital during the Raj era. Upgrade to a Premier Valley View room from £160 per person for 3 nights.

Day 10 : Shimla
Location: Shimla
Accommodation: Hotel, Premier Valley View room from £160 per person
Accommodation Name: Oberoi Cecil
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, No Meals

Explore the historic mall and listen to the stories behind its many colonial buildings while making your way to the Vice Regal Lodge.

Day 11 : Shimla
Location: Shimla
Accommodation: Hotel, Premier Valley View room from £160 per person
Accommodation Name: Oberoi Cecil
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day at leisure. Option to explore Shimla on a nature walk from the house where Rudyard Kipling wrote Plain Tales from the Hills to the gallery of a Shimla painter. Alternatively, enjoy afternoon tea at the Oberoi Wildflower Hall or visit the princely state of Dhami to spend the day with the noble family, birdwatching and enjoying their stories over lunch.

Day 12 : Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Taj Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, *Packed lunch

Drive to Chandigarh and connect with the midday train to Delhi. Stay overnight at the Taj Palace.

Day 13 : Fly To London
Location: Delhi
Meals Included: Breakfast

Fly to London with British Airways.

What's Included

  • No single supplement on selected departure dates (limited availability)

  • Small group size - average 14 people (max 18)

  • 5-star accommodation

  • Flexible - extensions, room & flight upgrades available

  • Direct international flights with British Airways

  • Express train travel in air-conditioned executive class

  • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles (10+ people in Volvo coach)

  • Ride first class on Shimla’s toy train

  • Experienced local tour manager

  • 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 11 dinners

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • Country Entry Visas

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the maximum group size?

    All Cox & Kings group tours have a maximum group size of 18 and average just 14 guests. Travelling in such a small group allows you to make stronger and deeper connections with fellow travellers.

  • What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?

    If a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers, we will either offer for you to take your holiday on a private basis (which may involve a supplement), or you will be fully refunded.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    Superior: Most Cox & Kings tours fall under this category and are based in 4- or 5-star accommodation where available, or the best alternative elsewhere.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes. We only work with passionate local guides who have a firm grasp of English – so they can answer all your questions and offer invaluable insight into your destination.

  • Why do I have to pay more for my holiday if I am a single traveller?

    Most hotels around the world charge more per person for a single occupancy room than for a shared twin room, because the cost of maintaining a room for one person can be almost as high as it is for two. In addition, many single occupancy rooms are the same as twin / double rooms.



  • Can Cox & Kings arrange my visa?

    We cannot arrange your visa but we can recommend a reputable visa assistance company who can help with your application. Please contact your tour consultant for details.



  • Are flights included in this tour?

    All prices for Cox & Kings holidays include international flights, except where indicated. For all destinations, you may be able to arrange your own flights. If you wish to do so, the cost will be deducted from the tour price.

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    Yes. Quoted prices include all entrance fees.

  • What is the difference between a 'single' supplement and 'sole' supplement?

    A 'single' traveller is someone occupying a single room while travelling with one or more other people, for example a single person travelling on a group tour. A 'sole' traveller is someone travelling on their own. As a single traveller on a group tour (except those in the SoloTravellers collection), please check the single supplement price. If you wish to add an extension to that tour, please th

  • When will I get my tickets?

    Travel documents will be sent approximately two weeks prior to departure (third party suppliers' policies may vary), unless your booking is made within six weeks of departure, in which case final documents will be sent as soon as possible.

  • When do I need to pay my final balance?

    Final payment must be made no less than 75 days before departure.

  • Why do I have to pay more for my holiday if I am a single traveller?

    Most hotels around the world charge more per person for a single occupancy room than for a shared twin room, because the cost of maintaining a room for one person can be almost as high as it is for two. In addition, many single occupancy rooms are the same as twin / double rooms. The Solo Travellers collection of small group tours is specially created to include accommodation based on single occu

  • Can Cox & Kings arrange my visa?

    We cannot arrange your visa but we can recommend a reputable visa assistance company who can help with your application. Please contact your tour consultant for details.

  • Do your prices include flights?

    All prices for Cox & Kings holidays include international flights, except where indicated. Australasia and Canada holidays do not include international flights so that you may benefit from the best prices at the time you choose to book, taking advantage of major seasonal variations and short term special offers. For all destinations, you may be able to arrange your own flights. If you wish to do

  • What is a non-exclusive escorted group tour?

    The vast majority of our group tours are exclusive to Cox & Kings clients. However, there are a few exceptions where holidaymakers who booked their tour with another travel company travel in the group.

  • When will I get a detailed itinerary?

    If you are travelling on a group tour, you will receive a detailed itinerary with your travel pack. If travelling on a private basis, you will receive your detailed itinerary with your confirmation invoice.

  • What are the four tour categories

    ***LUXURY These are our most comfortable tours and will usually feature 5-star deluxe accommodation throughout*** ***SUPERIOR Most Cox & Kings tours fall under this category and are based in 4- or 5-star accommodation where available, or the best alternative elsewhere*** ***STANDARD Simpler in emphasis, these itineraries typically feature 4-star or good 3-star accommodation throughout, or the best alternative elsewhere*** ***DISCOVERY Best suited to the hardier traveller, these tours typically include some quite basic accommodation, possibly longer and rougher road journeys and, in some cases, more strenuous activities, such as trekking***

  • Do I need inoculations?

    Many of our destinations have recommended health precautions, which you can read about in our regional documents and health pages. However, we recommend that you contact your doctor who will be able to give you professional advice, arrange any vaccinations and give advice on malaria protection. Alternatively, visit the NHS website for more information.

  • What happens if a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers? Will it be cancelled?

    If a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers, we will either offer for you to take your holiday on a private basis (which may involve a supplement), or you will be fully refunded.

Reviews from Travellers on this Tour

Suzie  

Delighted Customers!

My partner and myself have been regular travellers

My partner and myself have been regular travellers for over 20 years and up to now been loyal to a rival company. After an incident with them, we decided to change loyalty and try C&K. Was absolutely a good move. For the past couple years I have spoken to Sabastian Gittany, what a delight to be able to speak to the same consultant! I was immediately impressed with the service, he was extremely helpful, polite and nothing is too much trouble. Sabastian has an immense knowledge through his own travel experiences, which in turn helped us to ensure we booked the right holiday for us. As a result of the excellent service we received from Sabastian we have booked 4 holidays for 2022, the first being Egypt Nile Cruise, which he tailored and with lots discussions finally created an itinerary for us, so we are delighted.

Michael Clifford Edge  

The Golden Triangle & Shimla

We had an amazing time. Hotels first class. Fact o

We had an amazing time. Hotels first class. Fact our luggage was taken care of was great. Fantastic places taken to for food. Timing to Taj Mahal was spot on. Different monuments visited was great and varied. Things I think could be slightly improved would be to get paperwork for trip a few days earlier. Tipping was a surprisingly big expense.

Jessica  

Knowledgeable Staff and Excellent Service

Knowledgeable staff and excellent service that 'g

Knowledgeable staff and excellent service that 'goes the extra mile'. I have been on several holidays through Cox and Kings over the last 20 years and have always been more than satisfied.

Haig  

Exceptional Service

I have frequently used Cox and Kings and they nev

I have frequently used Cox and Kings and they never disappoint. They organise whatever I want and the great thing about their group tours is that they always include some free time. Other companies tend to pack far too much in to their schedules. I have found everyone I have ever dealt with keen to provide the best possible service.

Paul  

A Relaxed Way to Book a Holiday

Sue and I have travelled with Cox & Kings a number

Sue and I have travelled with Cox & Kings a number of times and have always booked direct with them. For this latest trip, I again contacted them direct and spoke to their travel advisor for the chosen area for a tailor-made holiday. I found him empathetic, knowledgeable and understanding of my requirements. An initial itinerary was prepared which after due consideration and discussion was cheerfully amended and agreed on. There was no pressure put on me and I found it, as usual, a good experience. Holiday now booked and I am looking forward to the trip.

Yvonne  

Great itinerary and great service

Great itinerary and great service from Cox & Kings

Great itinerary and great service from Cox & Kings. I will definitely use them in the future.

Read all 6 reviews

Want a private tour?

  • Personalise your trip

    Make changes to the itinerary, accommodation, or transport method

  • Travel more exclusively

    Your tour guide can focus all their attention on your group

  • Travel for a special occasion

    Celebrate an important event by only travelling with your friends or family

Dates & Availability

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 04, 2024 - Oct 16, 2024
$3828 $3705 (USD)

Operator discount: -$124 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 11, 2024 - Oct 23, 2024
$3705 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 18, 2024 - Oct 30, 2024
$3952 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 25, 2024 - Nov 06, 2024
$4076 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 01, 2024 - Nov 13, 2024
$3828 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 08, 2024 - Nov 20, 2024
$3705 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 15, 2024 - Nov 27, 2024
$3705 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 22, 2024 - Dec 04, 2024
$3705 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Feb 07, 2025 - Feb 19, 2025
$4076 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Feb 14, 2025 - Feb 26, 2025
$4076 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Feb 21, 2025 - Mar 05, 2025
$4076 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Feb 28, 2025 - Mar 12, 2025
$4076 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 07, 2025 - Mar 19, 2025
$4076 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 14, 2025 - Mar 26, 2025
$3890 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 21, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025
$3890 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
$3890 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
$3890 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
$3890 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 24, 2025 - Nov 05, 2025
$3890 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 07, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$3890 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 14, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025
$3890 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 21, 2025 - Dec 03, 2025
$3890 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Wednesday

Nov 28, 2025 - Dec 10, 2025
$4261 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Cox & Kings requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cox & kings charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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