India's Golden Triangle, Tigers and Shimla Reviews

This was a fabulous trip! Saw and experienced so much that my many, many photos can't show it all to someone who wasn't there. And I'll never forget the sound of a car/bus/tuk-tuk horn ever again, an indispensable part of successful driving in chaotic India. The rail was with Great Railway Journeys, and although the 2 short rail trips could not be described ...read more as great, they were an exciting experience. Our luggage went separately by bus, which was a major blessing. The accommodation was first-class, with a lot of heritage character. The last night in the maharajah's palace was sensational.

We were looked after by a team of 4 - a British tour manager, an Indian guide, driver and assistant. Most people were British, with a handful of Aussies. The bus was very comfortable and even had a toilet, though toilet stops were all very acceptable. Bottled water was plentiful and food was good, though if you mix too many of the spicy dishes from the nightly buffet you might fall victim to curry tummy.

The itinerary was great and there were no optional extra tours, everything was included. Delhi traffic is beyond bad, if you can arrive at night or in the very early morning, do so. I stayed an extra night on the last day at the Holiday Inn near the airport with free airport transfer. Shopping can be frustrating, and I didn't really like the several emporiums that we were taken to, but those might change in the future. If you want a carpet or jewellery make sure you check out prices and quality at home first. I got a great deal on a carpet at a small shop in a hotel.