Spice Road from the Golden Triangle to the Taj Mahal

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying intoIndira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).

You’ll be hitting the ground running on your first full day in India. After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll be picked up for a private transfer to the iconic Jama Masjid, where you can marvel at its grandeur and learn about its rich history. Next, take a short walk over to the Sheeshganj Gurudwara Sikh Temple, learning more about the Sikh religion and soaking in the spirituality and significance of this revered site. After enjoying a simple vegetarian lunch at the temple's community kitchen, you’ll hop on a short rickshaw ride to the vibrant Khari Baoli Spice Market, immersing in its bustling atmosphere and rich aromas. You will have the remainder of the day to wander the market's narrow lanes or explore the city on your own.

• Jama Masjid Visit

  After breakfast, you’ll be picked up from the hotel for a 30 minute private transfer to Jama Masjid, your first stop of the Old Delhi walking and rickshaw tour. Your guide will take you through Jama Masjid, one of the largest and most renowned mosques in the country. Constructed in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, it showcases magnificent Mughal architecture with intricate marble domes and towering minarets. Its vast courtyard can accommodate thousands of worshippers during prayers, making it a significant religious and cultural landmark in India.

  09:30· 45 min· Delhi
• Sheeshganj Gurudwara Sikh Temple

  Then you’ll walk 10 minutes over to Sheeshganj Gurudwara Sikh Temple, a revered Sikh temple situated in Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi. It holds historical significance as the site where Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, was martyred in 1675. The Gurudwara stands as a symbol of Sikh valor and resistance against religious persecution during the Mughal era. Its architecture blends traditional Sikh design elements with intricate craftsmanship, attracting devotees and visitors to experience its spiritual ambiance and rich cultural heritage.

  10:45· 45 min· Delhi
• Khari Baoli Spice Market

  After lunch, you’ll hop on the back of a motor rickshaw for a 10 minute ride over to Khari Baoli Spice Market, one of the largest and oldest spice markets in Asia. Dating back to the 17th century, it boasts a vibrant atmosphere filled with the aroma of various spices, herbs, nuts, and dried fruits. Merchants from all over India gather here to trade an extensive array of spices, making it a bustling hub of commerce and cultural exchange. Your guide will take you around the market and then climb the rooftop of the market to have the aerial view of Old Delhi. You’ll then have some free time to explore the narrow lanes lined with shops on your own.

  13:30· 60 min· Dehli

Your day starts with an early morning journey from Delhi to Agra, with a train ride promising scenic vistas and excitement. Upon arrival, delve into Agra's rich history with a visit to the majestic Agra Fort, an architectural marvel narrating tales of the Mughal era. Afterward, treat your taste buds to a vibrant street food tour, indulging in local delicacies like chaats and kebabs amidst the city's bustling atmosphere. With appetites satisfied, the rest of the day awaits for exploration at your own pace.

• Agra Fort Visit

  Perched on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, India, the Agra Fort stands as a testament to Mughal opulence and architectural prowess. In just 1.5 hours, visitors can absorb the fort's rich history and marvel at its intricate design. Built from red sandstone and adorned with marble palaces, the fort offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Emperor Akbar's reign. Wander through its expansive courtyards, adorned with lush gardens and impressive structures. Explore the ornate chambers, including the Jahangir Palace and the exquisite Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace). A visit to Agra Fort promises a captivating experience, immersing visitors in the vibrant tapestry of India's royal past and leaving them spellbound by its timeless beauty. After returning to the vehicle you will be transferred 10 minutes to your new hotel.

  11:30· 60 min· Agra
• Street Food Chaat Crawl

  From the hotel you will be transferred 10 minutes to begin your walking food tour. You will stop along the way at 2-3 different street food vendors to sample the local cuisine. You may try things like Chaat, Tikki or Pav Bhaji. Drinks are not provided but are available for purchase. We recommend bringing extra cash if you wish to purchase any additional food items. After this tour you will have the remainder of the day at your leisure.

  18:00· 100 min· Agra
• Transfer · Delhi → Agra

  Early this morning, at 6:00am, you will be transferred 40 minutes to Hazrat Nizammudin Railway station. At the station, hop aboard the train for a 1 hour 40 minute journey to Agra. Your luggage will be stored in the overhead compartment. Recommend packing a small day pack for items you want easily accessible. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll take a 10 minute private transfer to the fort.

  train · 100 min

Wake before dawn to marvel at the Taj Mahal bathed in the soft light of the rising sun, a moment of unparalleled beauty etched in your memory. After returning to the hotel, enjoy the remainder of the morning and the day ahead free to relax or explore the surroundings of Agra. Indulge in a lunch of local flavors at your own pace, whether at a nearby eatery or amidst the scenic beauty of the city. In the early evening, reconvene as a group for a cooking demonstration at a local home, where you'll learn the art of traditional Indian cuisine from a family. Engage your senses as you prepare authentic dishes and then gather to savor your creations together in a communal feast. Return to the hotel as night falls, where the remainder of the evening is yours to unwind and reflect on the day's unforgettable experiences.

• Taj Mahal at Sunrise

  Rise before the crack of dawn to witness the ethereal beauty of the sunrise casting its golden glow upon the Taj Mahal, a truly magical moment etched in memory. Depending on the season and time of the sunrise, you will be picked up from your hotel between 4:00am and 5:00am and transferred 10 minutes to the Taj Mahal. The tour of the Taj Mahal itself lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time to explore the iconic monument and its surroundings. After your time is complete you will be transferred back to your hotel for breakfast and to rest of the remainder of the morning, until your cooking demonstration.

  05:30· 90 min· Agra
• Mughlai Cooking Demonstration

  Today you will meet in the lobby. You will be transferred 30 minutes to a local home where the family will teach you different techniques in preparing traditional Indian cuisine. Since you will be using fresh ingredients your menu will depend upon the season and will be confirmed closer to the start date. Your meal may be 1-2 vegetarian curries and flatbreads. This is more of a cooking demonstration but you will be able to experience making the chapatis. After you’ve finished cooking you will all enjoy the meal together. You will be transferred back to your hotel for the remainder of the evening.

  18:30· 120 min· Agra

It’ll be another early morning as you set out for Jaipur. Board your private coach and settle in for a long drive. After arriving in Jaipur you will check into your new hotel and have time to settle before heading out to explore the city. First stop is the Palace, followed by the Jantar Mantar Observatory. After you will have the rest of the day free.

• Jaipur City Palace

  In the afternoon, transferred to the Jaipur City Palace. Here, with your guide, you will have 2 hours to explore. Visitors are greeted by its grand facade adorned with intricately carved arches, domes, and vibrant hues, reflecting the opulence of Jaipur's royal heritage. Step into its opulent chambers adorned with exquisite artwork, including delicate frescoes, ornate mirror work, and stunning lattice screens. Explore the sprawling courtyards, adorned with lush gardens, elegant fountains, and pavilions that once hosted royal celebrations and gatherings. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the city from the palace's vantage points, offering a glimpse into Jaipur's vibrant streets and bustling markets. Entrance into the palace is included.

  15:00· 90 min· Jaipur
• Jantar Mantar Observatory

  From the palace you will be transferred 5 minutes to the Jantar Mantar Observatory, which is a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and astronomical knowledge of ancient India. You will be awe-struck by the grandeur of its massive instruments, each meticulously constructed to measure time, track celestial bodies, and predict astronomical events. Among its highlights is the towering Samrat Yantra, the world's largest sundial, which accurately measures time to the minute. Entrance into the observatory is included. Once your time is complete you will be transferred 10 minutes to your hotel and have the remainder of the day free.

  16:30· 60 min· Jaipur
• Transfer · Agra → Jaipur

  Take a private transfer to Jaipur. Bathroom breaks will be made as needed. During your transfer, you will make a stop to stretch your legs.

  private · 270 min

Indulge in a delicious morning breakfast at the hotel, setting the perfect start for an adventurous day ahead. First you will be transferred to Amber Fort where you will spend the morning immersing yourself in its rich history and breathtaking architecture. In the afternoon you will be transferred to your Rickshaw food tour in the city around lunch time. Food is included but after the tour you will have free time to have a sit down lunch if preferred. In the evening reconvene as a group to celebrate the end of a fantastic journey at your farewell dinner.

• Amber Fort

  At 9:00am you will be transferred 30 minutes to Amber Fort. Known for its history and architecture you will spend time learning about this hilltop fortress. You can explore the fort's various sections, including the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) known for its breathtaking mirror work. Your entrance into the fort is included.

  09:00· 120 min· Agra
• Pink Rickshaw Food Tour

  Embark on the Pink Rickshaw Food Tour, an exciting culinary journey through Jaipur's bustling streets. Starting at 1 PM, guests will be transferred 20 minutes from Amber Fort to the city center market to board their rickshaws, with arrangements coordinated by the on-ground leader. With two people per rickshaw, participants will explore multiple stops to sample a variety of mouthwatering treats including Kachori, Lassi, Rabri, Kulfi, and Chai. This immersive experience offers a perfect blend of culture, flavors, and camaraderie, providing a memorable exploration of Jaipur's vibrant street food scene. After that you will be transferred 10 minutes to your hotel. You have time on your own to do as you please.

  13:00· 60 min· Jaipur

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Jaipur International Airport (JAI).