India Experience, 13 Days

Arrive in Delhi and meet your group and INTRO leader, settle in before your first night out together as the adventure begins.

Today we dive deep into the sights, sounds and smells of Delhi. Wandering the streets of Chawri Bazaar, our local guide will show us how little traditional life has changed. We'll get a taste of India's renowned cuisine as we sample local delicacies - chaat or lassi, anyone? This afternoon we visit the magnificent, red-marbled Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, and learn how religion has shaped this country. To finish off the city tour, we'll also visit Rajghat Memorial, where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated, and visit a Sikh Temple

Leaving the hectic streets of Delhi, this morning we'll catch a short flight to Jodhpur, a 700-year-old city in the desert famously known as the 'blue city'. We'll hop on some tuk tuks for a tour of the city before watching the sunset and heading out for dinner. 🌱 Small Change: We'll visit a local family-run cafe to enjoy masala chai tea at sunset.

Dominating the Jodhpur skyline, the impressive Mehrangarh Fort stands on a rocky hilltop overlooking the city and the desert plains below. Today we visit this spectacular sight to find out about the history of the area and check out some pretty impressive views. 🌱 Small Change: We'll visit Bishnoi Village to learn about the rural areas around Jodhpur, whilst supporting their family businesses.

It's time to leave city life behind as we venture into the Desert. We'll embark on a beautiful dune experience in some open-top Jeeps for sunset. Later, we will experience true Rajasthani hospitality and learn some traditional dancing.

Pushkar, one of India's holiest cities, is next on the agenda. We'll explore this city built around a holy lake with a walking tour, where we'll begin to understand why it is a sacred place for Hindu pilgrims to visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting beautiful markets and (more) delicious food, this city is like nowhere else in Rajasthan. In the morning, we'll get an epic view from Savitri Devi Temple to see the city from above. This afternoon you'll have some time to explore more of the city, or lounge by the pool.

Where better than the birthplace of yoga to get in touch with your inner yogi, so this morning we'll stretch into physical and mental peace with an included sunrise yoga class. After breakfast, we'll head to Jaipur, aka 'Pink City', where extravagant rose-tinted buildings await. This evening we visit a local family and help them prepare dinner. After breakfast, we'll head to Jaipur, aka 'Pink City', where extravagant rose-tinted buildings await. This evening we visit a local family and help them prepare dinner. 🌱 Small Change: A local cooking demo at a family home, learning about local cooking techniques and supporting a family business.

Next we'll visit Jantar Mantar, Jaipur's Observatory. At almost 200 years old, it still houses incredibly sophisticated instruments, another marvel of Indian achievement.

Today let's get a little wild. Leaving the madness of rickshaws and scooters behind, we're going for a complete change of pace, heading for the outskirts of one of India's largest and most renowned national parks. After checking in to our accommodation, there's time to chill. Later we're going full Indiana Jones mode - voyaging into the untouched jungle to explore Ranthambore Fort.

Tiger time! This morning is an early start as we head out on a sunrise safari to try and spot these incredible big cats in the wild. Ranthambore National Park is brimming with wildlife - monkeys, crocodiles, wild boars, deer, peacocks, and even leopards, so we're sure to have an adventure. After our safari, check out the local area or have some well-earned R&R by the pool.

Departing the jungle, en-route to our next location we will stop at the Abhaneri Stepwell, an otherworldly structure built over 1000 years ago to conserve water and provide respite from the intense heat. Photos snapped, we'll make tracks to magical Agra and tease you with what is to come by visiting the tomb of I'timãd-ud-Daulah - otherwise known as the Baby Taj. We're getting excited now…

Wake up early and witness the dawn illuminate the famous Taj Mahal with mesmerising golden glow. Yup, we've saved the best til' last. One of the 7 New Wonders of the World, our local guide will share the Taj's history and secrets and show us some iconic spots to snap pics. With awoken imaginations and full camera rolls, we head back to the hotel for breakfast and drive back to South Delhi. Tonight we celebrate our adventure together with one last Indian feast, some drinks, and maybe even some Bollywood dancing.

Our 13 day tour must come to an end, but the majesty of India will stay in our memories for eternity. Those flying home or on to Sri Lanka as part of our combo tour will make their way to the airport, or keep living the dream and extend your stay in India with our help and the new friends you've made.