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The Great Indian Rail Journey
Including flight
16 days
18 excursions & visits
3 days - free time
Active traveller pace
We love...
Watching the Taj Mahal change from dusky pink to alabaster white as the sun rises over India’s iconic masterpiece. Looking out for endangered tigers amongst the vine-covered ruins and misty lakes of Rajasthan’s Ranthambore National Park. Riding the rails past jagged peaks and lush pine forests on the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train - one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
This rail-focused escorted tour explores Northern India through a series of six train journeys. Travelling between Delhi, Amritsar, Shimla, Jaipur, Ranthambore and Agra, this small group itinerary includes two narrow-gauge ‘Toy Train’ routes and forms a complete circuit of the Golden Triangle. Guided sightseeing highlights major historical landmarks, national parks and varied regional landscapes.
Including flight
16 days
18 excursions & visits
3 days - free time
Active traveller pace
No surcharges guaranteed
For further peace of mind, once you have booked your holiday and we have confirmed your booking, we guarantee not to increase the price you pay if fuel prices or exchange rates change.
Get more value every time
Nationwide return chauffeur service
Getting to the airport is easy, thanks to our nationwide return shared chauffeur service, which is included on every tour
See more, do more, experience more
We include incredible experiences and activities
Your holiday includes
32 meals
14 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 14 dinnersAccommodation
14 nights in hotels and 1 in flight
18 excursions & visits
Panoramic tour of Delhi
Guided tours of Old and New Delhi; Jaipur; Agra; Amritsar; Shimla
Six train journeys: Delhi to Amritsar; Amritsar to Ambala; Sawaimadhopur to Bharatpur; Agra to Delhi and Two ‘Toy Train’ rides: Khadhaghat to Shimla and Shimla to Taravdevi
Tour manager
Titan tour manager
Transport from the UK
International and internal flights as detailed. Prices are based on return flights with Virgin Atlantic from London Heathrow.
Plus
Internal flights
3 days free time
Enjoy time to explore independently, relax at your hotel, join our optional excursions or ask your tour manager for their recommendations.
Portable audio
Headset system on excursions
Porterage
Services included
Call us FREE on 0800 988 5823 to book this holiday
Included excursions
These excursions are included in the price of your tour. See below for your day-to-day itinerary.
Pink palaces and more in Jaipur
The Rajasthan capital of Jaipur is not only famous for its pink cityscape, but is bursting with beautiful palaces, majestic forts and idyllic lakes. From the complex courtyards of the city palace, and the intricate honey-combed structure of Hawa Mahal, you'll also have some free time time to stroll city bazaars and soak in views from hilltop forts.
Bengal tiger trekking
While the sighting of a resplendant Bengal tiger stalking the undergrowth is the top prize, we get two safari game drives to go wildlife spotting in sprawling Ranthambore National Park. Cameras at the ready for marsh crocodiles, leopards, sloth bears and so much more.
Savour a thali lunch
If you find it hard to pick one dish then you'll enjoy eating a traditional thali. Made up of lots of little dishes but served on one large plate, you'll get a choice of rice, dhal (lentils), vegetables, chutneys, yogurt-based raita, and different flatbreads. Not to be missed.
Strike a pose at the Taj Mahal
Perhaps one of the most iconic symbols of love, the Taj Mahal is a crowning testament to Mughal emperor Shah Jahan's third wife. Yes, you may have seen countless images of this marble mausoleum, but nothing can prepare you for seeing it in real life. From sunrise to sunset, the hues of the Taj Mahal change with the light - and it's the perfect backdrop for any photo.
Changing of guards at Wagah
This is a spectacle not to be missed. Stand amongst cheering crowds as Indian and Pakistani border guards meet for a rousing display of military showmanship from competitive marching to chest beating and stomping.
Kalka to Shimla on a toy train
We'll traverse our way across some of India's most spectacular scenery on this 60 mile narrow guage railway that begins in Kalka and finishes at the foothills of the Himalayas in Shimla. From jagged mountains and waterfalls to pretty hill stations and pine forests, we'll trundle through 100 tunnels and over 80 bridges on a dinky train measuring just 2ft 6ins wide.
Feel like royalty at Agra Fort
Prepare to have your head turned. Once the home of Mughal emperors, this palatial fort is a fine example of building ingenuity. Walk through courtyard after courtyard of this red-sandstone and marble fortress and be amazed by its sheer scale and craftmanship.
Your itinerary
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Day 1 - UK - In flight
Our nationwide shared chauffeur service collects you from home for your flight to Delhi.
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Day 2 - Delhi
On arrival in Delhi, enjoy a panoramic tour of the city, taking in landmarks such as India Gate and Parliament House.
The Leela Ambience, Delhi (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Panoramic tour of Delhi (morning)
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Day 3 - Delhi
A full-day guided tour explores Old and New Delhi. In Old Delhi, travel through Chandni Chowk, a historic Mughal-era market district lined with traditional shops and food stalls. Key sites include Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, and a view of the UNESCO-listed Red Fort, built in the 17th century. New Delhi was planned by British architects in the early 20th century and serves as the seat of India’s government. Visits include the National Rail Museum, which documents the history of the Indian rail network through restored locomotives and carriages. A drive through the city passes major civic buildings and monuments.
The Leela Ambience, Delhi (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Guided tour of Old and New Delhi (all day)
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Day 4 - Delhi - Amritsar
Travel by train to Amritsar, a journey of approximately five-and-a-half hours, into the northern state of Punjab near the Pakistan border. Founded by the Sikh Guru, Guru Ram Das, Amritsar is one of Sikhism’s most important pilgrimage centres. Spend the next two nights in Amritsar.
Le Méridien Amritsar (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Train journey Delhi - Amritsar (morning)
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Day 5 - Amritsar
This morning’s guided tour focuses on Amritsar’s main religious and historical landmarks, including Jallianwala Bagh, a local bazaar, Durgiana Temple and The Golden Temple, the holiest shrine in Sikhism. This afternoon, travel to the border town of Wagah to see the changing of the guard - a military ceremony involving Indian and Pakistan troops that’s taken place each evening since 1959. In the evening, return to the Golden Temple to see the community kitchen.
Le Méridien Amritsar (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Guided tour of Amritsar, including the Golden Temple (morning)
Wagah changing of the guard ceremony (afternoon)
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Day 6 - Amritsar - Ambala - Shimla
Travel by train from Amritsar to Ambala, a journey of approximately four hours. Continue by road toward Shimla, travelling the final section aboard the narrow-gauge ‘Toy Train’ Kalka–Shimla railway, a UNESCO-listed mountain railway known for its tunnels, bridges and hillside views. Spend the next three nights in Shimla.
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Shimla (4-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Train journey Amritsar - Ambala (morning)
‘Toy Train’ ride (afternoon)
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Day 7 - Shimla
A morning sightseeing tour includes Mall Road, the main pedestrian thoroughfare, Viceroy Lodge, a late 19th-century residence built for the British viceroy, and Christ Church. Additional visits include Sankat Mochan Temple and the Indian Institute of Advanced Study on Observatory Hill.
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Shimla (4-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Shimla city tour (morning)
‘Toy Train’ ride (morning)
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Day 8 - Shimla
Today is free for you to enjoy at your own pace. You can take advantage of the complimentary transport back to the mall for some shopping, or you might choose to join the optional excursion, Spineline Trail - an exclusive experience at a local village.
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Shimla (4-star)
Today includes…
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Day 9 - Shimla - Chandigarh - Jaipur
Travel by road to Chandigarh for the one hour and 20-minute flight to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Known as the “Pink City”, Jaipur forms part of India’s Golden Triangle travel circuit and is recognised for its bustling bazaars, historic palaces and fortified architecture. Stay two nights in Jaipur.
Marriott Jaipur Hotel (5-star)
Today includes…
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Day 10 - Jaipur
Today’s tour starts outside Jaipur at the UNESCO-listed Amber Fort – the ancient capital of the Rajput empire. Back in Jaipur, visit 18th-century Maharajas City Palace and the Jantar Mantar Observatory, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You also drive past Hawa Mahal, ‘The Palace of the Winds’.
Marriott Jaipur Hotel (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Visit to Amber Fort (morning)
Guided tour of Jaipur (afternoon)
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Day 11 - Jaipur - Ranthambore
After a morning at leisure, this afternoon travel by road to Ranthambore National Park, approximately 100 miles away, for a two night stay.
Ranthambhore Kothi (3.5-star)
Today includes…
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Day 12 - Ranthambore
Today, enjoy a morning and afternoon safari drive in open-sided vehicles. The promise of tigers and leopards are the big cat draw of Ranthambore, and keep a close watch for the park’s other residents amongst the scattered ruins and lakes. Please note: To protect wildlife, preserve natural behaviour and encourage responsible tourism, the Forest Department in India has introduced a ban on mobile phone use during safaris in Ranthambore National Park. Local guides will collect mobile phones before the safari begins and deposit them securely prior to entering the safari zone. Cameras remain permitted, in line with existing forest regulations.
Ranthambhore Kothi (3.5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Two safaris in Ranthambore National Park (morning/afternoon)
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Day 13 - Ranthambore - Agra
This morning, drive to Sawaimadhopur and board the train to Bharatpur, before continuing to Agra. After lunch, take a guided tour of the city, beginning at UNESCO-listed Agra Fort. Visit the nearby tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah – a Royal tomb built in the same style as the Taj Mahal but a fraction of the size. Spend the next two nights in Agra.
Courtyard by Marriott Agra (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Train journey Sawai Madhopur - Bharatpur (morning)
Guided tour of Agra (afternoon)
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Day 14 - Agra
Arrive at the Taj Mahal by sunrise to watch the marble walls change from flaming orange to coral and then white. This architectural masterpiece, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, is spellbinding. Take a guided tour before the crowds arrive. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Courtyard by Marriott Agra (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Sunrise visit to Taj Mahal (morning)
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Day 15 - Agra - Delhi
Travel by train from Agra to Delhi and spend the last full day of your tour at leisure. Stay overnight in Delhi.
The Leela Ambience, Delhi (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Train journey Agra to Delhi (morning)
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Day 16 - Delhi - UK
After a final cup of chai, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival, your vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.
Today includes…
Day 1 - UK - In flight
Our nationwide shared chauffeur service collects you from home for your flight to Delhi.
Day 2 - Delhi
On arrival in Delhi, enjoy a panoramic tour of the city, taking in landmarks such as India Gate and Parliament House.
The Leela Ambience, Delhi (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Panoramic tour of Delhi (morning)
Day 3 - Delhi
A full-day guided tour explores Old and New Delhi. In Old Delhi, travel through Chandni Chowk, a historic Mughal-era market district lined with traditional shops and food stalls. Key sites include Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, and a view of the UNESCO-listed Red Fort, built in the 17th century. New Delhi was planned by British architects in the early 20th century and serves as the seat of India’s government. Visits include the National Rail Museum, which documents the history of the Indian rail network through restored locomotives and carriages. A drive through the city passes major civic buildings and monuments.
The Leela Ambience, Delhi (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Guided tour of Old and New Delhi (all day)
Day 4 - Delhi - Amritsar
Travel by train to Amritsar, a journey of approximately five-and-a-half hours, into the northern state of Punjab near the Pakistan border. Founded by the Sikh Guru, Guru Ram Das, Amritsar is one of Sikhism’s most important pilgrimage centres. Spend the next two nights in Amritsar.
Le Méridien Amritsar (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Train journey Delhi - Amritsar (morning)
Day 5 - Amritsar
This morning’s guided tour focuses on Amritsar’s main religious and historical landmarks, including Jallianwala Bagh, a local bazaar, Durgiana Temple and The Golden Temple, the holiest shrine in Sikhism. This afternoon, travel to the border town of Wagah to see the changing of the guard - a military ceremony involving Indian and Pakistan troops that’s taken place each evening since 1959. In the evening, return to the Golden Temple to see the community kitchen.
Le Méridien Amritsar (5-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Guided tour of Amritsar, including the Golden Temple (morning)
Wagah changing of the guard ceremony (afternoon)
Day 6 - Amritsar - Ambala - Shimla
Travel by train from Amritsar to Ambala, a journey of approximately four hours. Continue by road toward Shimla, travelling the final section aboard the narrow-gauge ‘Toy Train’ Kalka–Shimla railway, a UNESCO-listed mountain railway known for its tunnels, bridges and hillside views. Spend the next three nights in Shimla.
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Shimla (4-star)
Today includes…
Excursions & visits: Train journey Amritsar - Ambala (morning)
‘Toy Train’ ride (afternoon)
Why choose a Titan tour?
From authentic local experiences, postcard-perfect landscapes and extraordinary wildlife to carefully sourced hotels and unique stays, we’re here to make discovery completely seamless. You'll find a wide range of tour types and paces to suit you, plus our nationwide shared chauffeur service makes getting to and from the airport a breeze.
Nationwide return chauffeur service
Getting to the airport is easy, thanks to our nationwide return shared chauffeur service, which is included on every tour.
More value
From excursions to hotels, entry tickets and dining packages, we include more than any other tour.
More knowledgeable
Be guided by some of the most passionate and knowledgeable tour managers in the world, on hand to help every step of the way.
Happiness Guarantee
We’re confident you’ll enjoy every moment of your tour, but if you don’t, simply tell us and we’ll bring you home and refund you.
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