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Shimla Express & India's Golden Triangle

From $5,499pp
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Holiday Overview

  • Duration 13 NIGHTS
  • Departure 24 March 2025
  • Holiday type Rail Journeys
  • Holiday code ASA2224

Limited to 20 Passengers per departure

Includes a five-star fully escorted tour

Experience the vibrant colours, sights and sounds of India during an iconic rail journey and a series of immersive tours, as you explore the gleaming Golden Triangle.

Your holiday begins in Delhi, where you’ll discover its multi-layered existence and captivating contrasts during a full day tour, before travelling to Agra for the highlight of your holiday: a visit to the world-famous Taj Mahal. Next, you’ll venture to Ranthambore National Park, where you’ll relish close encounters with India’s endemic wildlife.

Your Golden Triangle tour then continues in Jaipur. Discover the deserted 16th-century city of Fatehpur Sikri before reaching the ‘Pink City’ with its colourful old quarters and beautiful surrounding countryside. Finally, you’ll embark the famous Himalayan Queen on an iconic journey through the majestic Himalayas, to Shimla, where you’ll spend three nights, concluding your holiday.

Your Imagine Holiday Includes

Rail Journey

Scenic rail journey from Kalka to Shimla on board the Himalayan Queen Toy Train

Fully Escorted Tours

Tour of Jama Masjid Mosque, Raj Ghat, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar and more

Tour of the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri

Tour of Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, the City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory and more

Game drives through Ranthambore National Park

Trail walk through the Himalayas

Shimla sightseeing city tour

Hotel Stays

4 night five-star hotel stay at the Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka or similar with breakfast

1 night five-star hotel stay in Agra at the ITC Mughal or similar with breakfast

2 night five-star hotel stay in Ranthambore at the Hotel Ranthambore Regency or similar with breakfast, lunch and dinner

2 night five-star hotel stay in Jaipur at the ITC Rajputana or similar with breakfast

3 night five-star hotel stay in Shimla at the Welcomheritage Elysium or similar with breakfast

All Flights, Taxes and Transfers

Auckland departure – regional flights available

Named hotels are based on availability and are subject to change without notice. Alternative hotels will always be of equal or higher star rating.
The departure date is subject to change based on flight times specified during the booking process.
*Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
^Prices shown include discount and savings based on two passengers sharing a Twin Share on 11 October departure date, booking directly with Imagine Holidays.

Your Tour

Your Itinerary

Day 1
Delhi: Hotel Stay

India’s sprawling capital formed by several ancient cities melding together through the centuries. Here you’ll find UNESCO world heritage sites sitting comfortably alongside innovative modern architecture like the florally inspired curves of the Lotus Temple.

Overnight: Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka

Day 2
Delhi: Hotel Stay & Tour

In Old Delhi, explore the Jama Masjid Mosque, the largest in India, whose courtyard can accommodate 25,000 worshippers. Admire the well-preserved ramparts of the Red Fort and mingle with throngs of locals at Khari Baoli Street market.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka

Day 3
Agra: Hotel Stay & Tour

Prepare yourself for the one of the greatest love letters in the world – the Taj Mahal. Made of polished white marble and inlaid with a king’s ransom of jewels, this is one of the world’s most recognisable buildings.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: ITC Mughal

Day 4
Ranthambore National Park: Hotel Stay

You’ll arrive at Ranthambore by evening and check in to your hotel. Nestling at the foot of the Aravalli Hills, the Ranthambore National Park is an outstanding example of the implementation of Project Tiger.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Ranthambore Regency

Day 5
Ranthambore National Park: Hotel Stay & Tour

Embark on an exciting and unforgettable game drive in a shared canter. Journey through the captivating landscape filled with glassy lakes, dense trees and ruins of ancient monuments as you keep lookout for the jungle’s majestic inhabitants.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Ranthambore Regency

Day 6
Jaipur: Hotel Stay

Following breakfast in the hotel, you’ll check out and be driven to Jaipur. En route to the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, you’ll stop for lunch before checking in to your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: ITC Rajputana

Day 7
Jaipur: Hotel Stay & Tour

The mountain-top Amber Fort is one of the architectural gems of Jaipur. Rajasthan’s mountain-fringed capital is also home to the Hawa Mahal, a building festooned with latticed balconies from which royal ladies could view the street below.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: ITC Rajputana

Day 8
Delhi: Hotel Stay

Return to Delhi where you’ll enjoy an overnight hotel stay. From ancient tales to modern aspirations, Delhi encapsulates India’s dynamic spirit and offers a captivating journey through time.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka

Day 9
Kalka: Board the Himalayan Queen & Shimla Hotel Stay

Boarding the Himalayan Queen for a journey along a UNESCO World Heritage Site railway track. Upon arriving in Shimla, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for your three-night stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: Taj Theog Resort & Spa Shimla

Day 10
Shimla: Hotel Stay & Tour

In Himachal Pradesh, a beautiful hill state in northern India framed by the western Himalayas, you’ll venture out on your incredible walking trail, pausing at picturesque hill stations for a rest and to admire the compelling views.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Taj Theog Resort & Spa Shimla

Day 11
Shimla: Hotel Stay

Set in the foothills of the Himalayas, Shimla welcomes visitors to enjoy its cooler temperatures and wander uninterrupted along the Mall, a pretty paved walkway in which to experience this city up close.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Taj Theog Resort & Spa Shimla

Day 12
Shimla: Tour & Delhi Hotel Stay

Today you’ll enjoy a sightseeing tour of Shimla, exploring highlights including the Shimla State Museum, Vice Regal Lodge, the Mock Tudor Library and Mall Road, the main street in Shimla.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Overnight: Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka

Days 13 - 14
Delhi: Fly Home

Your holiday complete, today you’ll head to the airport for your flight home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your Tour Highlights

Taj Mahal
Experience eternal love at the Taj Mahal, an architectural marvel symbolising romance. Explore its intricate details, rich history, and UNESCO status. Watch the stunning sunrise and embark on a captivating journey through time at this iconic site.
Agra Fort
Explore Agra Fort's timeless allure, a Mughal masterpiece blending red sandstone and white marble. Unearth regal stories within ancient walls, revealing palace opulence and serene courtyards. Immerse in its captivating heritage on a journey through time.
Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park, centered around the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, features ancient mosques, temples, and diverse flora and fauna. Its dry forests make it one of India's top national parks. Enjoy a two-night stay for thrilling jungle safaris, spotting leopards, boars, hyenas, sloth bears, macaques, and Bengal tigers*.
Himalayan Queen
Prepare for one of the most beautiful rail journeys on earth on board the famous Himalayan Queen. Settle in as this compact train, traverses through 102 tunnels, over 800 Gothic bridges on this epic UNESCO-listed track. As the Shimla Express winds its way upwards, you’ll delight in breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan landscape.
Amber Fort
Explore Amber Fort's regal world, nestled in the Aravalli Hills. Its opulent architecture, mirror work, and murals create an enchanting experience. Walk its ancient paths, immerse in valorous tales, and discover Sheesh Mahal and Maota Lake. Relish royal charm in this unique journey.

Prices

Twin Share Prices from $5,499pp

Solo Passenger Prices from $6,999pp

Your Hotel Stays

New Delhi

Included Hotel

Vivanta Dwarka New Delhi (Or Similar)

You’ll find the delightful Vivanta by Dwarka an elegant and spacious hotel within the heart of Delhi. This five-star hotel will envelope you in luxury the minute you step in; bold in design, with tall ceilings, airy corridors and magnificent colour contrasts it is undoubtedly a unique contemporary resort. After a busy day sightseeing, relax in your stylish and well-appointed room with chic furnishings and avant-garde windows offering views of the city. The two distinct restaurants entice guests with exotic menus and innovative cuisine from around the world, while the contemporary style bar serves exotic cocktails and premium spirits.

Agra

Included Hotel

ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Agra (Or Similar)

Feel like royalty during your stay at ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Agra, aptly named after the dynasty who built the nearby Taj Mahal. Enjoy the 23 acres of lush Mughal-style gardens, with the characteristic use of water channels, fruit trees, flowers and shaded walkways, and choose from an array of delectable fine dining options. From the opulent rooms and suites boasting a spacious place to rest with pleasant gardens to the resplendent Kaya Kalp featuring 8 treatment rooms and its own swimming pool surrounded by fragrant frangipani trees, your stay here will be nothing short of splendid.

Ranthambore

Included Hotel

Hotel Ranthambore Regency (Or Similar)

Discover the epitome of luxury and wildlife at Hotel Ranthambore Regency. Nestled in the heart of India’s Ranthambore National Park, this enchanting oasis promises an unforgettable escape. Immerse yourself in opulent rooms, adorned with traditional Rajasthani decor, while relishing the modern amenities. Savour delectable Indian and international cuisine at our gourmet restaurants. Embark on thrilling jungle safaris, where elusive tigers roam free. Let our warm and attentive staff cater to your every need, ensuring an extraordinary stay.

Jaipur

Included Hotel

ITC Rajputana, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Jaipur (Or Similar)

Immerse yourself in the romance and majesty of the royal era during a stay at the five-star ITC Rajputana located in the heart of the city. All 218 individually decorated rooms include comforts such as 24-hour room service and premium bedding, as well as pillow menus and air conditioning. Feast on Rajasthani delicacies and dishes from around the world at the Jaipur Pavilion or lavish buffets at the Jal Mahal and enjoy a sundowner at the Sheesh Mahal Bar or at the poolside lounge, Jharokha.

Shimla

Included Hotel

WelcomHeritage Elysium (Or Similar)

Escape to the enchanting WelcomHeritage Elysium in Shimla, where nature and luxury unite for an unforgettable retreat. Nestled amidst the Himalayan foothills, this haven offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Discover elegant rooms, world-class spa treatments, and delectable cuisine while soaking in breathtaking mountain views. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Elysium has it all. Immerse yourself in the charm of Shimla while indulging in the finest amenities.

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