— What You Can Expect —
Your driver meets you at your hotel or chosen pickup point in Ranthambore or Sawai Madhopur and heads east towards Abhaneri, about two hours away, with two heritage stops built into the drive to Agra.
First comes Chand Baori, a stepwell dating back to around the 9th century and one of Rajasthan's most remarkable sights. Roughly 3,500 steps run down its sides in a tight geometric pattern, reaching about 20 metres below ground and giving it an almost labyrinth-like feel. Your local guide explains why wells like this were built and how they helped communities store water in a dry climate.
Next you continue to Fatehpur Sikri, the red sandstone city that Emperor Akbar founded in the 16th century as his capital and abandoned in less than twenty years. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the best-preserved ghost cities in the world. With your guide you explore the mosque, Jodha Bai Palace, the audience hall, the tomb of the saint Salim Chishti and the monumental Buland Darwaza, and hear why the city was left behind.
Finally you are driven to your hotel in Agra, or to another spot in the city centre if you prefer.
Note: Entrance tickets, food and drinks are not included in the price. Driving time is about 2 hours from Ranthambore to Abhaneri, 2 hours from Chand Baori to Fatehpur Sikri and 1.5 hours on to Agra, so this is a long day. Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water and sun protection.