Northern India conjures up memorable and colourful images of turbans, saris, flavoursome curries and rickshaws. We visit the 'Pink City' of Jaipur, home to the wonderful former Maharaja's Palace and the splendid hilltop Amber Fort. Agra and the serene Taj Mahal are not to be missed and fully live up to expectations. An early morning boat ride through the mist along the ghats of Varanasi is probably the most sensory intoxicating excursion in India and is both fascinating and deeply moving – an experience only equalled by spotting a tiger in Ranthambore National Park.

We stay in centrally located city hotels (two- or three-star, local rating) that mix heritage and modern styles, plus a jungle hotel in Ranthambore National Park and the overnight sleeper train from Agra to Varanasi.



Jaipur: Fort Chandragupt







In central Jaipur, Fort Chandragupt is a combination of classic heritage with contemporary services and amenities. From the rooftop terrace, take in the view of the Pink City and the Aravalli mountain range where, on a clear day, the Nahargarh Fort can be seen. By staying close to several attractions and transport hubs, your senses will go into overdrive as you step out into the hustle of local people and tourists busily going about their day. The hotel facilities include a swimming pool, several restaurants and a lounge-bar.



Ranthambore: Raj Palace







Within Ranthambore National Park, the Raj Palace is conveniently located so we don't have far to go in search of tigers and other wildlife. When not in the forest, relax in the pool or just sit in the gardens giving your senses a break, away from the city noise and heat.



Sleeper trains







These are booked in a two-tier sleeper (or three-tier if two-tier is unavailable) with air conditioning. There are many excellent trains in India, but the standard of seating and sleeping is not in line with Western standards. All seats are allocated at the time the tickets are issued, meaning we cannot guarantee the whole group is together on the train. Your leader will manage this as best as possible and will always check on you during the journey. Indian trains are safe, but we recommend you always keep valuables with you as the sleeper compartments are open with curtains for privacy along the aisle. Snacks are often offered on board (at an additional cost). While some trains have Western-style facilities, most services are equipped with squat toilets.



Worth knowing



Hotels in India usually do not have heating as there are only a couple of months when the weather can get cold. You can, however, request more blankets if needed or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter.

Its common for hotels in India to have limited times in the day for hot water use to save energy. If you find your shower is cold, please let your leader or reception know so they can make sure the water heater is on.

Sleeper trains are not enclosed compartments, bed bunks are set up within a carriage with curtains for some privacy.

Within the sleeper train, you may be sharing a compartment of four beds with members of the public depending on how the seats are allocated.

Single accommodation excludes sleeper trains