Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets
15 days
From
$ 1399
Duration15 days
For travellers on a budget who are after an experience full of the very best India has to offer, this tour showcases man-made wonders and natural marvels without missing its most famous cities and sights. From the shining marble of the Taj Mahal and the sparkling shores of Goa, to Rajasthan’s colourful forts and temples, connect with the culture and spirit of this incredible land. Our expert Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) will take the hassle out of planning but leave you free to choose sites that really shine, so you can encounter India the way you (and your wallet) like.
This tour is operated by
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Duration: 15 daysService level: Basic
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Physical Grading: Light
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Ages: 18+
Tour Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi
If you arrive early, wander through the heart of India's capital city and explore Old and New Delhi. Travel by the new metro or auto rickshaws and visit the famous Jama Masjid (Great Mosque) where you could climb the minaret for a bird's eye view of the old city. Explore Chandni Chowk, one of India's oldest and busiest markets or head to the colourful spice market -- a great photo opportunity.
Arrive any time.
Please note this tour departs Delhi early on Day 2, so book extra accommodation if you would like to explore the city. Day tours can be booked through the front desk of your hotel if you do arrive early.
Day 2: Delhi/Āgra
Agra is best known as the site of India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. Enjoy a guided visit to this icon of Mughal architecture either in the morning or late afternoon for the best light (this depends upon your arrival time). You also have the option to visit the Agra Fort, the Taj’s less famous—but no less impressive—sister monument.
Take a morning train to Agra, then a guided tour of the impressive Taj Mahal. Opt to visit Agra Fort and Baby Taj.
Day 3: Āgra/Jaipur
Today we take a bus ride—always an adventure itself in India— to the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur, the former capital of a princely state of the same name. Clothed in pink stucco (in imitation of sandstone), Jaipur is known as the "Pink City" and is one of the most important heritage cities in India. It is home to India’s second most visited site, the Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of the Winds".
Take a cycle rickshaw to the markets and enjoy an orientation walk through the stalls. If you haven't tasted one yet, this is a great place to try a delicious masala chai (Indian chai tea).
In your free time, opt to visit the City Palace, the observatory, or check out a song-and-dance Bollywood film in India's largest movie theatre.
Take a cycle rickshaw to the markets and enjoy an orientation walk through the stalls. If you haven't tasted one yet, this is a great place to try a delicious masala chai (Indian chai tea).
In your free time, opt to visit the City Palace, the observatory, or check out a song-and-dance Bollywood film in India's largest movie theatre.
Take an orientation walk around town, then enjoy free time to explore other sites around town. Opt to see a Bollywood film.
Day 4: Jaipur
Admire the city from above by pre-booking the Jaipur Balloon Ride when booking your tour.
Enjoy a guided tour of the Amber Fort before having a free afternoon in Jaipur to explore the city.
Day 5: Jaipur/Tordi Sāgar
Go on an included guided walk through the local village and opt to participate in a cricket match with some locals.
Dive into rural life by visiting potters, cobblers, and markets. Opt to take a jeep safari or camel cart ride to the dunes for sunset. Head out for a hike in the hills or get a henna tattoo from local women.
Meals: D
Day 6: Tordi Sāgar/Pushkar
Have a final taste of rural village life with a traditional lunch before travelling to Pushkar.
This morning, travel to Ajmer and over Snake Mountain to Pushkar. The site of the world’s only temple to the Hindu god of creation, Brahma, Pushkar is often called "Tirth Raj," the Raj (king) of pilgrim centres.
After settling into our accommodation, we will take an orientation walk around Pushkar.
This morning, travel to Ajmer and over Snake Mountain to Pushkar. The site of the world’s only temple to the Hindu god of creation, Brahma, Pushkar is often called "Tirth Raj," the Raj (king) of pilgrim centres.
After settling into our accommodation, we will take an orientation walk around Pushkar.
Enjoy a local lunch prepared by traditional methods at a village hamlet. Go on an orientation walk upon arrival to Pushkar.
Enjoy a simple but tasty vegetarian lunch at a local village hamlet.
Meals: B, L
Day 7: Pushkar
Before dawn today, we climb to the hilltop Savitri temple. After the morning walk, there is nothing better than spending time at one of the many cafés in town.
In the morning, climb Savitri Temple, perched atop a hill, and catch the sunrise. Enjoy some free time for shopping or yoga. Opt to partake in a traditional dinner in the desert cooked by cameleers, with local entertainment.
Day 8: Pushkar/Udaipur
Continue south to lakeside Udaipur, famous worldwide for its plethora of breathtaking lakes and Raj-era palaces. It certainly lives up to its reputation as India's most romantic city.
With its own famous style of painting and plenty of artisans, Udaipur is a great place to stroll through.
With its own famous style of painting and plenty of artisans, Udaipur is a great place to stroll through.
Take an orientation walk and an optional boat ride.
Day 9-10: Udaipur
Free time to explore the "Venice of the East" with its lakes, palaces, and narrow lanes.
Discover the early morning serenity of the city by pre-booking the Udaipur Sunrise Cycle tour extra, or opt to sharpen your culinary skills by pre-booking the Udaipur Cooking School extra.
Day 11: Udaipur/Mumbai
Take a local bus to Ahmedabad and explore the famous Gandhi Ashram at Sabarmati. Overnight train from Ahmedabad to Mumbai.
Day 12: Mumbai
Opt to shoot a picture of the Gateway to India, facing westward out to sea, and stop in for a cup of tea at the famous Taj Hotel next door. From here boats leave for Elephanta Island (also called Gharapuri Island or place of caves), famous for is cave temples carved straight from the rock.
People-watch on Chowpatty Beach or visit Crawford Market, one of South Mumbai's most famous markets. Try some of the many local specialties at one of Mumbai’s many top-notch restaurants, or go out on the town and sample the city’s famed nightlife firsthand.
People-watch on Chowpatty Beach or visit Crawford Market, one of South Mumbai's most famous markets. Try some of the many local specialties at one of Mumbai’s many top-notch restaurants, or go out on the town and sample the city’s famed nightlife firsthand.
Arrive to Mumbai and take an orientation walk of Colaba and Fort Area. Enjoy free time to explore the bustling metropolis of Mumbai.
Day 13: Mumbai/Goa
Relax on a beach, visit the many Portuguese-built monuments, wander around the old churches of Old Goa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and discover Panjim, the capital.
In the morning, hop on a short flight to Goa. Head to the beaches of North Goa, sample tasty treats at the night markets, and take in the nightlife of this coastal state.
Day 14: Goa
Enjoy a free day to wind down in North Goa. Visit nearby beaches, scour the markets, and be sure to try to some delicious Goan cuisine and fresh seafood.
Day 15: Goa
Depart at any time.
Inclusions
Included
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group Your Discover Moment: Udaipur
- Guided tour of the Taj Mahal and the Amber Fort
- Orientation walks in Jaipur, Pushkar, Udaipur, and Mumbai
- Visit to Gandhi Ashram
- Village walk in rural Tordi Sagar
- Sunrise at Savitri temple
- Internal flight
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
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Transport
Train, Local bus, Jeep, Rickshaw, Tuk-tuk, Taxi, Plane -
Accommodation
Simple hotels or guesthouse (twin-share) (13 nts), Overnight train (1 nt)