Iconic India





Experience a kaleidoscope of colour and culture
Travel to the far-flung corners of India on this epic adventure. In the north, journey through Jaisalmer's desert, lose yourself in the electric bazaars of Jodhpur, witness pilgrims performing ancient ceremonies on the ghats of Varanasi and marvel at the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. Then bask in the tropical southern climate, cruise along the Kerala Backwaters, come face-to-face with local customs in small rural towns, and laze on the gorgeous beaches of Goa – India's idyllic holiday destination. Enjoy the freedom to be immersed in the diverse cultures of colourful, chaotic and enchanting India on this small-group adventure.
4.4
12 reviewsStart: Delhi, India
End: Goa, India
- Duration
- 37 days
- Group size
- 1 to 16
- Minimum age
- 15 years old
- Style
Basix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Original: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: Our best accommodation, exclusive inclusions and our most experienced leaders
- Basix
- Theme
Our themes categorise trips based on a common interest or activity, while showcasing the highlights of a destination.
- Explorer
- Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Why you'll love this trip
- Rajasthan is the India that many people imagine when they dream of travelling to this captivating country – ancient forts, palaces, rural villages and the colourful cities of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaipur.
- Pushkar and Varanasi are among the holiest cities in India. Climb to hilltop temples at sunrise, dodge cows in the street, and observe pilgrims praying along the ghats of the sacred Ganges River during a boat cruise.
- Explore the wonders of the Thar Desert. Feast on Rajasthani cuisine at sunset before bunking down to camp between the sand dunes.
- Glide through the backwaters of Kerala on a pole boat, going ashore for a village stay – a beautiful break and a perfect way to get close to local customs and culture.
- The word ‘colourful’ gets thrown around a lot when people talk about India, but the gateway towers of Meenakshi Amman Temple truly are a technicolour dream.
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2025 - 31 December 2025
Itinerary
Namaste and welcome to Delhi! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive in Delhi with time to spare before the meeting, consider finding your feet with an Urban Adventure. The Hidden Gems of Delhi tour offers something a little different from the standard itinerary, taking you to sights most tourists never see.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Delhi - Humayun's Tomb - INR600
- Delhi - Qutub Minar - INR600
- Delhi - Red Fort - INR600
- Delhi - Gandhi's Delhi Urban Adventure - INR3350
- Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure - INR3750
- Delhi - Hidden Gems of Delhi Urban Adventure - INR4100
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
To find out more about Urban Adventure tours like the Hidden Gems of Delhi, speak to a booking agent or visit urbanadventures.com/destination/delhi-tours.
This morning set off by metro to Old Delhi to explore on a walking tour. Experience the chaos of an Indian traffic jam as you inch your way through the streets around Chandni Chowk marketplace in a traditional cycle rickshaw. Visit the Jama Masjid, Delhi's oldest mosque, then stop by the Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) to learn about the religion. Tonight, transfer to the railway station and board an overnight train to Bikaner. Local vendors will board the train at various stops to sell snacks, but it’s advised that you bring some of your own food for the journey too.
- Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
- Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
- Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
Your travel time on the overnight train will be approximately 8 hours.
Bikaner a city in Rajasthan still displays its ancient opulence through palaces and forts, built of red sandstone that have withstood the passage of time. Upon arrival in Bikaner this morning, freshen up at your hotel and then head out on a walk with your leader through the old city.
In the afternoon relax or opt to visit Junagarh Fort: Built in 1588 AD by Raja Rai Singh. Constructed in red sandstone and marble, it's courtyard, balconies and windows are a treat to the eye
There are no meals included on this day.
- Bikaner - Junagarh Fort - INR600
After breakfast travel to Jaisalmer by train. On arrival, choose whether to relax or join the group on an optional trip to the Jaisalmer Folklore Museum. This small museum displays a private family collection of printing blocks, musical instruments, religious artifacts, and decorations which offer insights into the cultural heritage of Jaisalmer.
- Guesthouse (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Jaisalmer - Leader-led walking tour
Enjoy a free day to explore Jaisalmer. The city’s eponymous fort holds twisting alleys with markets where you can wander for hours. You can also find a series of Jain temples dating from the 15th and 16th centuries within the walls of the fort, and it’s easy to spend a few hours admiring their elaborate carvings. The opulent havelis (traditional Indian mansions) found throughout the city make another fine place to spend some time admiring the desert architecture.
- Guesthouse (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Jaisalmer - Folklore Museum - INR500
Today drive by jeep to the Thar Desert. Meet your local guides, who will cook a traditional Rajasthani dinner with chapati, dal, rice and veggies while you sit back, relax and watch the sunset. Spend the night stargazing and sharing stories in this incredible setting.
- Camping (with basic facilities) (1 night)
- Dinner
- Thar Desert - Overnight Desert Camp - Free
You’ll be sleeping out in the open tonight, with mattresses, pillows, sheets and blankets provided. There’s no need for a tent – you wouldn’t want to miss the incredible starry sky tonight! There are no structured bathroom facilities so please bring toiletries with you, including hand sanitizer and face wipes. Toilets are simple long drop style.
During the winter months (December and January), temperatures in the desert can drop below zero. Your leader will monitor the weather forecast to decide whether this activity will go ahead. If not, you’ll take a day trip to the Thar Desert instead of the overnight stay. Some travellers also like to bring a sleeping bag and base layers for camping in the colder months.
Rise early to enjoy the sunrise over the sand dunes. After a simple breakfast, take a private vehicle to the railway station and then a 6-hour train ride across the desert to the blue city of Jodhpur. Jodhpur is home to some of the best lassis in India, so make sure you try one while you’re here.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
The total train journey will take approximately 6 hours. This is a Third Class AC train.
Today you have the option to visit the colossal Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest in India. The fort is still run by the Jodhpur royal family. If you’d prefer to see a more down to earth kind of Rajasthani life, it is also possible to spend today touring nearby Bishnoi villages. Spending time in these villages offers a glimpse into rural Rajasthani life and the chance to learn about the rich cultural traditions of the people who live there.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Jodhpur - Leader-led walking tour
- Jodhpur - Bishnoi villages day trip - INR750
- Jodhpur - Meherangarh Fort - INR600
- Elevator Mehrangarh Fort - INR50
This morning take an auto-rickshaw to the bus station and board a local bus for an 8-hour journey to Udaipur. This romantic city is set amid the Aravalli Hills and curls around Lake Pichola, a man-made lake created in the 14th century. On arrival, take a guided walk to get your bearings. Explore twisting alleyways filled with shops and bazaars selling things like silver jewellery, shoes, bags, leather goods, and miniature paintings.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Udaipur - Leader-led walking tour
Today’s bus journey travels 300 kilometres and takes approximately 8 hours.
Enjoy a free day to explore the sights of Udaipur. Perhaps take a short boat ride on the famous Lake Pichola (seasonal) and see the palaces of Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas rise out of the water and their own reflections. Otherwise, you could tour the lakeside City Palace complex, the largest palace in Rajasthan, where you can check out vivid murals and royal antiques. Alternatively, learn the secrets behind making the perfect Indian thali during a half-day cooking class.
Maybe you’d like to visit Sajjan Garh (Monsoon Palace), a 19th-century palace perched on a hill overlooking Lake Pichola. Named after Maharana Sajjan Singh of the Mewar Dynasty, Sajjan Garh offers ridiculously great views of the city below. Or perhaps you’re more inclined to visit the nearby village of Shilpgram, an ethnographic museum and arts hubs where traditional crafts are sold, and artists perform.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Udaipur - Cultural performance - INR250
- Udaipur - Sajjan Garh Palace (Monsoon Palace) - INR300
- Udaipur - Shilpgram craft village - INR100
- Udaipur - Cooking class - INR600
- Udaipur - City Palace - INR400
- Udaipur - Lake Pichola boat ride - INR500
Transfer to the station and travel by train for around 5.5 hours to the city of Ajmer. Hop in a private vehicle for a 45-minute drive to your hotel in Pushkar. One of India's holiest towns and a market centre for the surrounding villages, Pushkar is a great place to immerse yourself in Hindu traditions. On arrival, head out to explore the town on a walking tour, wandering through the main bazaar along the way. Finish with a walk around Pushkar Lake and past the bustling ghats and temples, observing the devout as they worship at the holy waters.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Pushkar - Leader-led walking tour
Today’s train journey takes approximately 5. 5 hours. This is a seated carriage with air conditioning.
Today in Pushkar is free for you to do as you please. Early morning risers can choose to hike up the hill to the Savitri Temple for sunrise views over the town. If the chai man is there, enjoy a steaming cup of tea at the top for breakfast. Later in the day, maybe pay a visit to the colourful Brahma Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god. If you’ve planned your tour to coincide with the Pushkar Camel Fair (which changes each year), today will mainly be set aside to experience one of India’s most famous festivals.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Pushkar - Brahma Temple - Free
- Pushkar - Sunrise at Savitri Temple - Free
We do all we can to ensure that travellers booked on a trip that coincides with the Pushkar Camel Fair (which changes each year) will get an opportunity to see the best of the festival. However, we offer no guarantee that the announced dates will not change. Pushkar hotels raise their rates considerably during the festival, so departures across this period may be at a higher price. Although we make bookings months in advance, accommodation in Pushkar tends to overbook at this time. We ask for a flexible approach from people travelling at this time as accommodation, the order of activities and type of transport may need to change.
Return to Ajmer and travel by local bus to Jaipur (approximately 4 hours). On arrival take an auto-rickshaw to your hotel, then head out to explore Rajasthan’s capital on a guided walking tour. This tour includes a visit to the market and opt to visit the beehive-like Palace of the Winds (Hawa Mahal), built in 1799 so that women of the royal family could observe street festivities without being seen by the public. Your evening is free, so perhaps ask your leader to point out the best place to grab dal baati (dal served with wheat rolls).
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour
Today’s local bus journey travels 150 kilometres and takes approximately 4 hours.
Enjoy a free day in Jaipur, with plenty of optional activities to choose from to fill your day. For many travellers, an optional hot air balloon experience is one of the highlights of Jaipur. If you’d prefer to stay grounded (but still like expansive views) the Amber Fort is both an excellent example of Rajput architecture and a great place from which to see the surrounding area. Or maybe get among the crowds in the city’s bazaars to shop for artisan goods and semi-precious stones. For a true local experience, tonight you could immerse yourself in Bollywood with a movie at a classic cinema.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Jaipur - Amber Fort - INR500
- Jaipur - City Palace - INR1200
- Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema - INR400
- Jaipur - Balloon Safari - USD280
Ballooning can be done in the morning between September and April. For additional details, please see the ‘Important notes’ section of the Essential Trip Information.
Head to Abhaneri by private vehicle. This rural town provides a lovely detour from the bigger cities in Rajasthan. Visit the Chand Baori, a 20-metre-deep stepwell where water was collected and locals used to gather to escape the heat. Built in the late ninth century, the baori is a mind-bending feat of construction. Next visit another jewel of Abhaneri, the Harshat Mata Temple. This temple, which is now mostly ruined, was first constructed between the seventh and eighth centuries and dedicated to the goddess of happiness and joy.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Dinner
- Abhaneri - Chand Baori stepwell
- Abhaneri - Harshat Mata Temple visit
Today’s journey by private vehicle covers 95 kilometers and takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Head east by private transport for the 2–3-hour journey to Agra, via a stop Fatehpur Sikri where you can opt to go inside. Rich in Mughal heritage, Agra is a city of gardens, temples, and open rooftops. On arrival visit the Taj Mahal, a white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal attracts over three million visitors each year, so be prepared for crowds. If you’re after a cool drink or a light meal, maybe head to Sheroes Hangout. This cafe is staffed by survivors of acid attacks and is located 10 minutes’ walk from the Taj.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Agra - Taj Mahal
Today’s journey by private vehicle covers 60 kilometres and takes approximately 2–3 hours.
Enjoy a free day before boarding the train this evening. Early risers might want to head back to the Taj Mahal for a very memorable sunrise. While you’re here, be sure to visit the spectacular Red Fort on the banks of the Yamuna River. Built in 1565 by Emperor Akbar, the fort was originally designed to be a military structure. If you have extra time, you may like to continue onto Akbar's Mausoleum to pay your respects to the great emperor. In the evening, board a 12-hour overnight train to Varanasi (Third Class AC).
- Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Agra - Agra Fort - INR650
- Agra - Akbar's Mausoleum - INR300
Today’s overnight train journey covers 700 kilometres and takes approximately 12 hours.
On arrival in Varanasi this morning transfer by auto-rickshaw to your hotel. Head out on a guided walk around the Old City, following your leader through the narrow alleyways. The rest of your day is free to do as you please. This evening, there are two options you should consider, both centred around the holy Ganges. The first is a sunset cruise along the river which allows you to observe life from a unique perspective in the fading light of day. If you’d prefer to stay on land, you could watch local priests perform a Ganga aarti (fire ceremony) at the Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Varanasi - Leader-led Old City walking tour
- Varanasi - Sunset candle flower ceremony - INR400
There's so much to see and do in Varanasi. Use Intrepid’s guide to help plan your time at intrepidtravel.com/adventures/varanasi-guide-india.
Enjoy a free day to explore this holy city. We highly recommend starting very early and take an optional sunrise boat trip along the Ganges, passing pilgrims bathing and praying along the colourful ghats. Alternatively, head out to the ghats on foot to watch the dhobi-wallahs (clothes washers) drying clothes along the riverbank. You could even continue your stroll to the sinking Vishnu temple near the Manikarnika Ghat. Perhaps ask your leader about how to visit Sarnath, about ten kilometres outside of the city, where Gautama Buddha is said to have given his first speech after finding enlightenment.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Varanasi - Sarnath - INR315
- Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip - INR400
In the morning, you have some free time to explore more of Varanasi. Perhaps visit the Vishwanath Temple, or simply grab some chaat and watch the world go by. If you’re craving a little peace and quiet before you board another overnight train, consider heading to the Kriti Gallery to check out some contemporary work by local artists. In the afternoon, board the overnight train for a 15-hour journey to Delhi.
- Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
Today’s overnight train journey covers 800 kilometres and takes approximately 15 hours.
Arrive in Delhi in the late morning and hop in a taxi to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the city at your own pace. Tonight, maybe get together with your group and head out for some dinner – your local leader will have plenty of recommendations.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Delhi - Gandhi's Delhi Urban Adventure - INR3350
For the other immersive, locally guided adventures in Delhi, speak to a booking agent about Urban Adventures or visit urbanadventures.com/destination/delhi-tours.
Enjoy a free morning in Delhi before transferring to the airport for an included flight bound for Trivandrum. Please note that this flight is most likely unaccompanied, however, you’ll be met in Trivandrum and transferred to your hotel by a local representative. Tonight, there is another group briefing at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your new travel pals and group leader who’ll join you for the next stage of your journey. Afterward, take a walk around Trivandrum and perhaps join an optional group dinner – your group leader will know of some delicious spots to eat at.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Trivandrum – Leader-led Orientation Walk
As this is a combination trip, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today. There will be a welcome meeting tonight to discuss the next stage of your itinerary and meet travellers joining you. It’s important that you attend the meeting as your new leader will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
Please note that Kerala is officially a dry state, with alcohol sales and consumption limited to bars in five-star hotels.
In the morning, head up the coast by private vehicle for around 2 hours to the town of Varkala. Once settled into your hotel, use the free time to explore the Keralan coast, which is home to some of India’s best beaches. Soaring cliffs protect Varkala’s sandy bay and, depending on the time of year, dolphins can be spotted from high up on the rocks. In the evening, maybe head into town to one of the numerous restaurants serving fresh, local seafood caught right off the coast.
- Resort (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
Enjoy a free day in Varkala. This is a great place to sit back and relax, but if you want to get active there are plenty of water activities on offer, such as surfing and windsurfing. Even though this is a popular destination for Indian tourists, the beaches are quiet and pretty laidback. Today is also the perfect time to check your Lonely Planet app and see what else is popular around the area. Take the rest of the day to relax, beachside, or otherwise, before the rest of South India beckons.
- Resort (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
This morning, take a 3-hour train journey along the Keralan coastline to Alappuzha (Alleppey). Once an important trading port and now renowned for the annual Snake Boat race in August, Alappuzha is the starting point for most journeys into the backwaters. An auto-rickshaw will take you from the train station to the boat boarding point before heading to an island village for an overnight guesthouse owned and managed by a local family. Get settled, then explore the Keralan Backwaters in a pole boat, your guide will also take you on a walk around the village through paddy fields and smaller canals. A great opportunity for you to learn about the local ways of the backwaters.
- Local Guesthouse (1 night)
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Kerala Backwaters - Pole boat ride
- Kerala Backwaters - Guided village walk
Accommodation tonight may be on a multi-share basis depending on group configuration. All guesthouse accomodations will be few hundred metres of each other, with at least one person in each guesthouse speaking a reasonable standard of English. Food is traditional Keralan home-style cooking and will be served at the main guesthouse. Standards and configuration of rooms may differ between guesthouses.
In the morning, cross the backwaters by private boat back to Alappuzha. You’ll then take a 2-hour local bus to Kochi, arriving around midday (12 pm). Once arrived, go for a walk around the Fort Kochi area, where you’ll be staying for the next two nights. In the early evening, there’s the option to attend a classic Kathakali dance performance – a snapshot into traditional cultures of the region.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Kochi - Kathakali performance - INR600
Today, head to the Mattancherry part of Fort Cochin to explore the old Jewish quarter, synagogue, and Dutch Palace (Kochi Palace) on a guided walking tour. The tour takes around three hours, with the rest of the day free to do as you wish. Afterward, why not join an Urban Adventure day tour, such as Aromas of Kochi, to get more of an in-depth look into this city and its cuisine. Visit urbanadventures.com/destination/kochi-tours for more information, and check with your local leader in advance if you’d like to book one of these trips.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour
- Kochi - Dutch Palace - INR20
This morning, get ready for a day of travel as you head by private vehicle to Periyar National Park (approximately 7–8 hours). After checking in to your hotel, head out on a tour of a local spice farm. Walk through the winding pathways among the plantations as the scent of cardamom, pepper, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla lingers in the air. Take in the beauty of the cardamom flowers, enjoy the cool breeze and watch the sunlight seep in through the leaves of the pepper plants surrounding you. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed evening around your accommodation, perhaps settling in for an early night.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Periyar - Spice plantation visit
After breakfast, enjoy a free day with an optional walk around Periyar National Park. Encounters with animals in the wild are never guaranteed, and this is more of a jungle walk than an animal-spotting tour, but do keep an eye out for tiger tracks, spotted deer, Indian elephants, or gaur – the world's largest species of buffalo. In the afternoon, unwind with an optional ayurvedic massage or just relax in your scenic setting.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Periyar - Kalaripayattu (Indian Martial Art) performance
- Periyar - Guided nature walk - INR1400
Our usual route is the Green Zone walk in the national park. Please note that tigers are extremely rare and shy in Periyar National Park. It is, however, a lovely walk, the local guides are villagers who have lived in the area for generations and are very knowledgeable about the area’s flora and fauna. Bring water – we start early but it gets very hot and humid later in the morning. Leech socks are available to rent for a small fee – this is one critter that we often do spot!
In the morning, take a private transfer to Madurai (approximately 4–5 hours). This buzzing city is crammed full of bazaars, pilgrims, and cycle rickshaws. After a walking tour to see the sights, perhaps visit the Sri Meenakshi Temple. This ancient temple is still in use and features a labyrinth of lamplit corridors leading to shrines.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Madurai - Leader-led walking tour
- Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple - INR50
Today is a free day in Madurai. Perhaps head to the Gandhi Museum to learn about the man who fought for India’s independence or wander through the 1000 pillars of Aayiram Kaal Mandapam. This is also a great opportunity to haggle with vendors at the bazaars and the tailors' market. Keep in mind that this evening, you’ll take an overnight sleeper train to Mysore. The journey is approximately 14 hours, so you may want to bring some extra snacks.
- Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Madurai - Gandhi Museum - Free
Sleeper trains are clean and air-conditioned, and beds are padded berths with sheets, pillow, and blanket provided (although some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet). Please note that you may be sharing with locals of all genders.
On arrival, transfer to your hotel in Mysore. Mysore is an easygoing town with a pleasant climate. Go on a walk with your group, checking out the ornate Mysore Palace along the way. There’s also the option to visit the Keshava Temple in Somnathpur, which is a stunning example of Hoysala architecture. The temple is a 1-hour drive out of town.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Mysore - Leader-led walking tour
- Mysore - Keshava Temple - INR200
- Mysore - Maharaja's Palace - INR200
Today is a free day in Mysore, with plenty of optional activities to keep you busy. If you’ve seen all you need to in town, perhaps explore the countryside surrounding Mysore. Climb up Chamundi Hill to the Sri Chamundeswari Temple at the top, which is dedicated to the goddess Durga. At around 7 pm tonight, meet up with your group and board a 10-hour overnight train to Hampi.
- Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Mysore - Chamundi Hill & Temple - INR100
In the morning, arrive in Hampi and travel to your hotel. Hampi is a temple town situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. Once you’re settled in, make an optional visit to the architectural masterpiece of Vittala Temple. This 16th-century temple contains mandapas (pillared pavilions), a pool, a palace, and the popular stone chariot, which according to Hindu mythology was the vehicle of the Lord Vishnu.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Hampi - Vittala Temple - INR500
After breakfast, explore the ruins of the Vijayanagar Empire and the huge boulders on the outskirts of town. In the early evening, drive for around 3 hours by private vehicle to Hubli, where you’ll board a 9-hour overnight train to Goa.
- Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
Once your train arrives in Goa, head to the hotel and check in. Brimming with Portuguese influences and known for the sandy beaches lining its coast, Goa is a fascinating region in India's south-west. The day is free to do what you like. Perhaps relax on the beach, sip a cocktail at a local bar, or go for a city walk. Tonight, why not get together with your travel crew for a beachside dinner – Goa is cause for celebration.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
There are no activities planned for the final day and you’re able to depart the accommodation at any time. Goa is a great place to end the trip – if you can, we recommend staying on for a couple of nights to relax and explore. If you would like to spend more time in Goa, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
There are no meals included on this day.
Inclusions and activities
5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
Auto rickshaw, Boat, Bus, Car, Cycle rickshaw, local bus, Metro, Overnight sleeper train, Private vehicle, Taxi, Train, Plane
Camping (with basic facilities) (1 night), Guesthouse (5 nights), Heritage Property (2 nights), Homestay (1 night), Hotel (18 nights), Overnight sleeper train (3 nights)
- Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
- Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
- Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
- Jaisalmer - Leader-led walking tour
- Jodhpur - Leader-led walking tour
- Udaipur - Leader-led walking tour
- Pushkar - Leader-led walking tour
- Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour
- Abhaneri - Chand Baori stepwell
- Abhaneri - Harshat Mata Temple visit
- Agra - Taj Mahal
- Varanasi - Leader-led Old City walking tour
- Trivandrum – Leader-led Orientation Walk
- Kerala Backwaters - Pole boat ride
- Kerala Backwaters - Guided village walk
- Kochi - Leader-led Fort Kochi walking tour
- Periyar - Spice plantation visit
- Periyar - Kalaripayattu (Indian Martial Art) performance
- Madurai - Leader-led walking tour
- Mysore - Leader-led walking tour
- Delhi - Humayun's Tomb - INR600
- Delhi - Qutub Minar - INR600
- Delhi - Red Fort - INR600
- Delhi - Gandhi's Delhi Urban Adventure - INR3350
- Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure - INR3750
- Delhi - Hidden Gems of Delhi Urban Adventure - INR4100
- Bikaner - Junagarh Fort - INR600
- Jaisalmer - Folklore Museum - INR500
- Thar Desert - Overnight Desert Camp - Free
- Jodhpur - Bishnoi villages day trip - INR750
- Jodhpur - Meherangarh Fort - INR600
- Elevator Mehrangarh Fort - INR50
- Udaipur - Cultural performance - INR250
- Udaipur - Sajjan Garh Palace (Monsoon Palace) - INR300
- Udaipur - Shilpgram craft village - INR100
- Udaipur - Cooking class - INR600
- Udaipur - City Palace - INR400
- Udaipur - Lake Pichola boat ride - INR500
- Pushkar - Brahma Temple - Free
- Pushkar - Sunrise at Savitri Temple - Free
- Jaipur - Amber Fort - INR500
- Jaipur - City Palace - INR1200
- Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema - INR400
- Jaipur - Balloon Safari - USD280
- Agra - Agra Fort - INR650
- Agra - Akbar's Mausoleum - INR300
- Varanasi - Sunset candle flower ceremony - INR400
- Varanasi - Sarnath - INR315
- Varanasi - Sunrise Ganges boat trip - INR400
- Kochi - Kathakali performance - INR600
- Kochi - Dutch Palace - INR20
- Periyar - Guided nature walk - INR1400
- Madurai - Sri Meenakshi Temple - INR50
- Madurai - Gandhi Museum - Free
- Mysore - Keshava Temple - INR200
- Mysore - Maharaja's Palace - INR200
- Mysore - Chamundi Hill & Temple - INR100
- Hampi - Vittala Temple - INR500
This trip generates 70 kg of CO2-e per person per day
Learn more about our climate commitment.
When you travel with us, The Intrepid Foundation gives you more opportunities to support important causes in destinations you visit.
Before you book you should know
- This trip is made for travellers who value their independence but also want the benefit of a local leader and a group of like-minded travellers. The itinerary has a mix of included activities and free time when your leader will offer suggestions. Please budget spending money for optional activities you want to partake in.
- Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. That way you get the most out of your interactions with local people and environments. We visit a number of temples on this trip, which requires a certain level of modesty. Please bring clothes that cover the arms and pants/skirts that go past the knees. A light scarf is also a good idea for covering shoulders and arms when it’s hot.
- Sleeper trains are a great way to travel long distances while still getting maximum time in each place. Beds are padded berths with sheets, pillow and blanket provided (although some people prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet). Please note that you may be sharing with locals of the same or opposite gender. More information can be found in the Transport section of the Essential Trip Information.
- You will also be travelling by local bus on this trip. While conditions are basic, this is a great way to rub shoulders with the locals while enjoying the passing scenery.
- This trip runs all year round, so it’s important to be aware of just how hot it can get in India in the summer months and choose the season that best suits you. Depending on the time of year, temperatures in northern India can get very hot and very cold. Please bring layers and a range of adequate clothing, including thermals and sun protection.
- We've sourced our accommodation carefully and picked the best possible hotels in line with the Intrepid style of travel. Service and accommodation in India may be different from western standards.
ACCOMMODATION:
Some of the accommodation along the way is basic or simple, staying in local guesthouses and homestays. Some may have shared bathroom facilities with cold water only. We use a mixture of air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.
SHOWERS:
Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.
ROOM ISSUES:
If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your tour leader right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.
Hotel Perfect
16A/2 WEA Near Karol Bagh Metro Station
Karol Bagh
Delhi
110005
INDIA
Phone: +91 1142502295
Description
Located in the intriguing Karol Bagh market area, surrounded by a mix of local stalls, shops and restaurants, as well as some western shops. It is only a 25 minutes ride by auto rickshaw (INR70-80 with bargaining) to get to the heart of Delhi, Connaught Place. The hotel features a restaurant and room service, and rooms are equipped with AC, TV & phone. Luggage storage and safe deposit facilities are also available at the hotel.
http://www.hotelperfect.co.in
Instructions
Delhi's Indira Gandhi's International Airport is approximately 25km from Karol Bagh. One of the biggest airports in the world, it can be quite chaotic and can take some time to process your visa and collect your luggage.
Intrepid offer a pre-arranged transfer service option. Enquire with your agent and advise your flight arrival details at least 14 days prior to your trip departure. If you have purchased an arrival transfer you will be met in the arrivals hall after clearing customs, your representative with sign board will be standing near the Costa Coffee next to gate no 5. Please ask them to confirm your name.
Please do not exit the gates, Costa coffee is just before the exit gate no.5.
If you have any problems and cannot locate our representative, or if your flight is delayed please call the following 24 hour number:
+91 95608 49444
+91-9911 97 2636
+91-9999 00 5019
If you do not have a mobile phone, there are public phones next to Costa Coffee. Calls cost 1 rupee per minute
Failing the above please take a taxi to the hotel (using the instructions below) and advise your group leader. When you walk out of the exit door, you will easily be able to spot popular metered taxi counters such as Meru Cabs/Mega Cabs or Easy Cabs, show them your drop location and pay them as per the meter once you get to your hotel.
Taxi's from the airport to our starting point hotel take approx 1 hour and costs between INR 650 - 700 (prepaid traffic police booths).
IMPORTANT: Please avoid taxi touts who tell you that they have a metered taxi parked outside the airport. Previous passengers have complained that they have been charged hefty amount for the transfers.
The Delhi metro is another option from the airport. Trains depart between approx 5am and 11:30pm, the trip takes approx. 45 mins and costs around INR100. Please refer to the metro map for lines, changes and directions to Karol Bagh where most of our hotels are located. http://delhimetrorail.info/delhi-metro-map
Check in time at hotel is 12 midday.
Dates and prices
Important notes
1. This trip is a combination of North India Revealed (HHRR, group size max 16) and South India Revealed (HHSS, group size max 12). As such the makeup of your group and your tour leader may change on Day 22
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 2, 17, 20, 31, 33 and 35 (Overnight sleeper trains) and Day 3 (Camping) where you will be in shared accommodation, and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
3. The Pushkar Camel Fair is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant festivals in India, and can be a true highlight, but please note the fair is based on the lunar calendar, so the fair dates can vary and it can be hard to confirm the exact festival dates.
We will do all we can to ensure that travellers booked on departures that coincide with the fair will get an opportunity to see the best of the festival, but due to the uncertain and flexible nature of this festival we cannot take responsibility if the dates of the fair are changed resulting in your visit not coinciding with the fair.
Pushkar hotels typically raise their rates considerably during the fair so departures across this period will be subject to a surcharge. Unfortunately, although we make bookings months in advance, Pushkar accommodation tend to overbook at this time so we ask for a flexible approach from our travellers who choose to travel at this time.
4. Hot air balloon flights are operated by Sky Waltz in Jaipur. Flights operate from September 1st to April 30th and last approximately 60 mins. Return transfers, tea and coffee plus light refreshments, and a certificate of flight are included in the cost. You can register your interest and pay your tour leader at your joining meeting on day 1 of your trip. Payment must be made by cash in either INR/AUD/USD/GBP or credit card and is USD 260pp (subject to change). Flights are subject to availability and weather conditions (tickets are fully refundable in case of bad weather).
5. Please note travelling during major festivals such as Holi and Diwali can, at times, cause disruption the the published itinerary. Please see the 'Safety' section for more details.
6. The trip begins with an important welcome meeting at 6pm.There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time.
7. Please provide your full name exactly as it appears on your passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for flight tickets. Ticketing fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing a new ticket.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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