Private Journey Details
Experience the treasures of India on a private journey that encompasses Delhi, Rajasthan’s fabled capital of Jaipur, and the incomparable Taj Mahal. Set out on game drives in Ranthambore National Park, ride a rickshaw through the wildlife sanctuary Keoladeo Ghana National Park, and meet children during a private visit to a school.Trip Highlights
- Travel by rickshaw through Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and bird sanctuary.
- Visit a local school in Delhi, and meet with the headmaster and students.*
- Watch the sunrise and sunset illuminate the exquisite Taj Mahal.
- Search for spotted sambar deer, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, and the elusive royal Bengal tiger in Ranthambore National Park.
- Take a guided walking and cycle rickshaw tour through Jaipur's spice bazaar.
Itinerary - 12 Days
Days 1, 2, & 3 — U.S./Delhi, India
Depart on a flight to Delhi, arriving the morning of Day 3. Following a morning at leisure and lunch on your own, meet your local guide and spend the afternoon exploring Old Delhi. Stroll through the walled enclosure that houses Raj Ghat, Delhi's memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; visit the Red Fort palace; and see the Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India.
Taj Palace
Day 4 — Delhi
This morning, go on a private visit to a school for underprivileged children. Meet with the school's headmaster (or one of the teachers) and several students, and visit a class while in session.* This afternoon, explore the presidential palace, parliament house, Qutb Minar tower, and Humayun's Tomb with your guide.
(B)
Day 5 — Delhi/Jaipur
Drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, known as the "pink city." This afternoon, in the company of your local guide, examine the intricately carved facade of the Hawa Mahal, or "palace of the winds"; visit the neighboring City Palace; and venture into the 18th-century Jantar Mantar Observatory, where one astronomical instrument is still used to calculate the Hindu calendar.
Taj Rambagh Palace (B)
Day 6 — Jaipur
This morning, explore the magnificent Amber Fort, built in the 17th century and once the center of power in Rajasthan. Then, take a guided walking and cycle rickshaw tour through the spice bazaar to soak up the aromas and bright colors of this bustling marketplace. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
(B)
Day 7 — Jaipur/Ranthambore
Travel overland to Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan's famous tiger reserve. Wildlife abounds here: you may see hyena, jackal, macaque, wild boar, Sambar deer, sloth bear, woodland and water birds, and the elusive royal Bengal tiger. An afternoon game drive with a ranger introduces you to the park.
The Oberoi Vanyavilás (B)
Day 8 — Ranthambore
Spot wildlife in this pristine setting on morning and late afternoon game drives. Take an excursion to visit the nearby Ranthambore Fort and the Lord Ganesha Temple, dedicated to the Hindu elephant god.
(B)
Day 9 — Ranthambore/Bharatpur/Agra
Journey by train to Bharatpur. Here, ride a rickshaw through Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and wildlife sanctuary that harbors more than 380 species of birds. After lunch, meet your local guide and continue to Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted 16th-century red-stone city and also a World Heritage site. Arrive in Agra in time for your first sighting of the Taj Mahal, awash in the rich hues of the setting sun.
Oberoi Amarvilas (B,L)
Day 10 — Agra
Join your local guide for a tour of the imposing Agra Fort, built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. During an afternoon at leisure, explore Agra, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy any of the other amenities at your hotel-which offers fantastic views of the Taj Mahal from every room.
(B)
Days 11 & 12 — Agra/Delhi/U.S.
As the sun rises, join a guide for a visit to the Taj Mahal, said to be the most elaborate monument ever built for love. Then travel overland to Delhi, stopping en route at Sikandra, the tomb of the great Mogul emperor Akbar. The afternoon is at leisure to explore on your own. Transfer to the airport late this evening for your overnight flight home.
Taj Palace
For more information on this National Geographic Private Journey, please call 1-866-572-1563.
National Geographic Private Journeys are unique itineraries designed for independent travelers. You'll explore fascinating places with private guides, and wherever possible, meet National Geographic experts at work in the field.
View LargerExpedition Dates 
* The school is closed from May through June and during holidays. Please call for details.
Private Journey Costs
The November 5 and 19 departures include the Pushkar Festival. There is an additional $400 per person surcharge on these departures.
ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY
During your stay in Delhi, Jaipur, Bharatpur, and Agra, you'll be accompanied by private guides as noted in the itinerary. In Ranthambore National Park, vehicles and guides are shared with other guests visiting the park. Accommodations throughout your journey are five-star properties. The Oberoi Vanyavilás, set within a 20-acre jungle estate adjacent to Ranthambore National Park, features spacious and elegantly appointed luxury tents. The Oberoi Amarvilás is located 600 meters from the Taj Mahal and offers breathtaking views from every room. Taj Palace and Taj Rambagh Palace are both located in the city centers. India is known for its spectacular festivals. If a festival is taking place in any destination during your visit, we can arrange for you to attend.
Learn more about our accommodations.
See special terms and conditions for our Private Journeys.
