The golden triangle of India

Meeting at New Delhi International Airport, the capital city of modern India. Many dynasties and rulers have flourished on this important land over the last 3000 years. The legacy still survives in many monuments, which spans from the 13^th century mausoleum of the Lodi Kings to the buildings of British India's imperial past, among which the Parliament House and the Presidential Estate. Transfer to hotel and overnight stay at Delhi.

The morning is devoted to a guided city tour of Old Delhi. Enjoy the visit of the Red Fort, built thanks to Shah Jahan, who shifted his capital from Agra to Shahjahanabad and laid the foundation of Red Fort. It took nine years to build this wonderful citadel and it got completed on 16^th April 1648. Then, discover the Rajghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. It is one of the most important tourist sites in Delhi and one of the most visited. Afterwards, it's time to continue to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosque in India asked by the emperor Shah Jahan, as his final architectural extravagance. Of course, you can also stroll through the colourful and gaudy bazaars of Chandni Chowk.

After having discovered the old part, you'll move to New Delhi. En route to the Qutab Minar (1193 A.D.), it will be possible to glimpse Safdarjang's Tomb (1753 AD). The Qutab Minar is a 73m high-majestic medieval tower of victory built by the slave dynasty. Within the Qutab complex, in the middle of the ruins of Quwat-ul-Islam mosque, stands the Iron pillar which has stood the vagaries of weather and has not rusted for over 1500 years.

Later drive to the Embassy area, Diplomatic enclave, where you'll stop for a quick photo shoot at India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhawan (Presidential Estate formerly Viceroy's House).

At the end of these visits, you'll move to Agra (4 hours). It was the ancient capital of the Mughal empire during the 16^th & 17^th century. It boasts wonderful and gorgeous architectural masterpieces and a rich tradition of art and culture. Agra hosts one of seven wonders of the world, the marble symphony of Emperor Shah Jahan, which is worldwide famous as "The Taj Mahal". Here, it is possible to discover the fascinating creations of the craftsmen in the architectural marvels. On arrival check in at the hotel and overnight.

The morning is dedicated to the visit of the amazing city of Agra, starting from its main symbol: Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). It is the mausoleum of Empress Mumtaz Mahal, the beloved spouse of Shah Jahan, who died in 1630. Considered the finest work belonging to the Mughal architecture, a style that mixes elements of Persian, Turkish, Indian and Islamic traditions. Then, your tour continues to Agra Fort, the original red sandstone fort constructed by Moghul Emperor Akbar in 1565. The Forts maze of courtyards, its marble mosque and lavish private chambers reflect the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Finally, visit Akbar's Mausoleum at Sikandra, which is a fusion of Hindu and Muslim architecture, like the emperor himself.

After lunch, you'll enjoy the tour of Fatehpur Sikri, an abandoned city, which is remarkably well preserved and shows a perfect synthesis of Muslim, Hindu and Jain architecture. The sculptured columns bear mute testimony to this gallant experiment to unite Hindus and Muslims.

Afterwards, you'll move to Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan. It is a picturesque pinky city, its color means hospitality in Rajput culture. Built by Raja Jai Singh in the 18^th century, it is surrounded by hills topped with solid fortresses and dotted with fairy tale palaces. Ambling camels and brightly dressed locals, reflect Jaipur's desert heritage while the teeming markets display a profusion of handlooms and crafts. It is for sure the city of love, legends and lore. Overnight in an hotel in Jaipur.

In the early morning you'll embark on excursion to Amber Fort. Here you are transported back in time, riding royally atop elegantly draped and painted elephants to the mountain fortress of Amber, located about 11 kms from Jaipur. It was the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachwahas of Amber, before the capital was shifted to the plains. The interior walls of the palace show expressive scenes with carvings, precious stones and mirror setting.

Enroute visit Palace of Winds, built by the poet king Sawai Pratap Singh. This is the most renowned landmarks of Jaipur and is also the icon of the city. Continue touring, visit Jantar Mantar, it is the largest and the best preserved among the five observatories of India and was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Then, you'll move to the City Palace, which gives you an idea about the farsightedness of the founder of Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. The palace combines Mughal and Rajput architecture and the ex-royal family still lives in a part of the palace. Evening is at leisure and overnight stay at Jaipur.

Bid farewell. Today you'll be transferred to Jaipur airport: end of services.