Essential Delhi to Goa

Arrive in Delhi and make your way to our meeting point. Our pre-departure meeting starts at 12:00, so you may wish to consider arriving in Delhi the day before we depart - please contact us to arrange pre-tour accommodation. At the meeting, get to know your fellow travellers and tour leader, and find out more about the upcoming fortnight.

We also enjoy a basic Hindi lesson with our tour leader. Then, after some time to check in, we are heading out at around 16:00 for a tour of Old Delhi. You’ll experience bustling markets, delicious street food, temples, and plenty of fun along the way - comfortable shoes are highly recommended! We will also visit the Sis Ganj Sikh Temple in Old Delhi, a grand 18th century Sikh temple.

Delhi - Varanasi. Today begins with an energetic start in the leafy surrounds of Lodhi Garden, where you can join a friendly game of Ultimate Frisbee with local players - or simply soak up the lively atmosphere from the sidelines.

If you’d rather explore Delhi’s heritage than its sporting scene, you may choose to visit Humayun’s Tomb instead. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this magnificent 16th-century mausoleum inspired the design of the Taj Mahal and offers a captivating insight into the grandeur of Mughal architecture.

At midday, we’ll come together for lunch at Khan Market - a favourite local hangout known for its stylish cafés, global cuisine, and boutique shops. It’s an ideal spot to relax, refuel, and enjoy a taste of modern Delhi life.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue to Delhi Haat, a vibrant open-air bazaar showcasing traditional crafts from across India. Browse stalls bursting with colourful textiles, intricate jewellery, and handmade treasures - and try your hand at a little friendly bargaining.

As evening falls, we’ll visit Akshardham Temple, one of Delhi’s most spectacular landmarks. This vast complex of intricately carved stone and marble combines spiritual serenity with remarkable artistry. After taking in the illuminated temple at sunset, we’ll gather to board the overnight train bound for Varanasi.

We’ll arrive in Varanasi this morning and travel by private transfer to our hostel, where there’s time to relax, freshen up, and settle in before we continue exploring.

In the afternoon, you may choose to visit Sarnath - one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites. It was here that the Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, and the atmosphere remains deeply peaceful. The site also reflects layers of Hindu heritage, offering a fascinating glimpse into India’s spiritual tapestry.

As the sun sets, we’ll embark on a memorable boat ride along the Ghats of the Ganges. Gliding past the city’s riverfront steps, we’ll witness the rhythm of life along the water – from evening rituals to the poignant scenes at the Burning Ghat. The experience culminates with the Ganga Aarti, a powerful ceremony of light, chants, and devotion that transforms the river into a shimmering display of faith and tradition.

Varanasi - Agra. Begin the day with an optional sunrise boat ride along the Ganges. As the morning light reflects off the water, you’ll see locals beginning their daily rituals along the riverbanks. On the way back, you might like to sample a steaming cup of Tulsi Chai or try a few local street snacks.

Afterwards, you can venture into the lively markets of Varanasi and visit the famous Blue Lassi Shop. Enjoy one of their rich, fruit-filled lassis while taking in the vibrant sights and sounds of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor.

In the afternoon, we’ll swap the river for the rails and make our way to Agra. Depending on train schedules, we’ll travel either in the afternoon or overnight. On arrival, we’ll check in and rest up - ready to witness one of the world’s most iconic landmarks tomorrow.

Whether you wake up in your Agra hostel or arrive by train this morning, we can start the day with a walk to Bread & Mine Café, a welcoming spot that supports the deaf community. With its excellent coffee and warm atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to enjoy breakfast while contributing to a meaningful cause.

In the afternoon, you can choose to join an informal tea session with your tour leader, a relaxed opportunity to hear personal stories about India, ask questions, and, with a bit of luck, chat with locals for genuine insights into daily life.

Later, enjoy free time to explore two of Agra’s finest landmarks at your own pace: the grand Agra Fort, with its towering red sandstone walls, and the elegant Itimad-ud-Daulah, often called the Baby Taj for its delicate marble design.

As evening falls, we’ll come together for dinner and drinks at Salt Café, one of Agra’s most popular hangouts, known for its great food, lively atmosphere, and the perfect setting to toast another memorable day in India. You'll want an early night, as tomorrow is a big day...

Agra - Jaipur. We are waking just before sunrise and walking to the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and without a doubt the most famous attraction in the whole of India. Marvel at this incredible monument to love in the early morning glow, and take plenty of photos to remember the experience.

We are departing Agra this afternoon, with a private transfer to Jaipur. The drive time today is estimated at 5 -6 hours, depending on the traffic and how many stops we make.

On arrival in Jaipur, you can spend the rest of the day at leisure. Perhaps pay a visit to the Nahargarh Fort (approx 210 INR). We recommend Tattoo Cafe for dinner!

If you’re an early riser, you might like to begin the day with an optional hot-air balloon safari over Jaipur’s pink-hued skyline. Otherwise, take a slower start and enjoy breakfast before choosing to visit the magnificent Amber Fort. Built from pink and yellow sandstone, this hilltop fortress is one of Rajasthan’s most impressive landmarks and offers sweeping views across the Aravalli hills.

The afternoon is yours to explore Jaipur at your own pace. You may wish to wander through the City Palace and the intricate façade of the nearby Hawa Mahal, marvel at the astronomical instruments of Jantar Mantar, or browse the bustling Bapu Bazaar for textiles, jewellery, and souvenirs.

Later, we’ll regroup for a foodie highlight - a guided Food Court Tour that showcases the city’s best flavours. From savoury street snacks to sweet local treats, it’s a delicious way to experience Jaipur’s culinary culture. And for those keen to keep the night going, you can round off the evening with a night out - whether it’s a lively bar, a dance spot, or relaxed drinks with the group.

Jaipur - Jaisalmer. There's no rest for the wicked and we have another early start for our included visit to the Monkey Temple. The Monkey Temple, or Galta Ji, in Jaipur is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site featuring sacred water tanks and home to hundreds of rhesus macaques, set within a cliffside temple complex.

Spend the rest of the morning as you wish - relax and recharge, enjoy a leisurely breakfast with the group, explore more of Jaipur’s Pink City, or visit the beautifully ornate Patrika Gate, known for its vibrant Rajasthani artwork and intricate design.

In the afternoon, we’ll transfer to Jaipur Station to board our overnight train to Jaisalmer.

We arrive in Jaisalmer at about 5:00 and head to the hostel for a rest. We aren't staying here but you will be able to unwind in the common areas and have a wash. The rest of the morning and early afternoon can be spent exploring the surroundings, or you could visit Jaisalmer Fort. Some of it is free to enter, but a cost of around 600 INR is needed to enter the temple inside the fort.

Mid-afternoon, we head out of the city. Take a one-hour jeep drive into the desert, where a camel ride awaits, leading you through stunning sand dunes. Enjoy a traditional vegetarian dinner, then sleep comfortably on proper beds under the open sky. In case of rain, tarpaulins will be provided for extra cover.

Jaisalmer - Jodhpur. Wake early to watch the sunrise and enjoy a vegetarian breakfast before we head back to Jaisalmer. Freshen up before we make the 6-hour drive in private transportation to Jodhpur. Arriving at our hostel, we have an hour or so to relax after checking in.

Then we enjoy an included 2-hour orientation tour of this famous Blue City, taking in some of Jodhpur's historic sites like the Clock Tower and the fascinating Toorji Ka Jhalra - the ancient step well.  

Today, we enjoy a hands-on Indian Cooking Experience. Learn to prepare traditional dishes, enjoy tasting your creations, and take home a few new skills - along with the recipes to recreate them.

If you’re craving a burst of adrenaline, you can choose to try the optional Flying Fox Zipline over Jodhpur. Soar across six thrilling stations, taking in spectacular views of the Blue City and its majestic fort from above.

Jodhpur - Mumbai. Today we are flying to Mumbai (included). Your flight will either be at 11:00 or 14:00, your tour leader will confirm flight times. On arrival in the city, formerly known as Bombay, you will be transferred to our hostel. Freshen up before heading out to discover the city. This afternoon, we’ll explore some of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks - from the majestic Gateway of India to the glittering arc of Marine Drive, famously known as the Queen’s Necklace.

As evening falls, you might like to head to the lively Colaba District for dinner, drinks, or a relaxed stroll through its bustling streets. For a memorable finale to the day, why not enjoy a rooftop bar and take in sweeping views of the city skyline?

This morning is at leisure, or you can join an optional tour to Dharavi, the largest slum in Asia, where you can learn about local life here. Later, an optional trip to Dhobi Ghat Mahalaxmi is offered. This is the largest outdoor laundry in the world, and you can learn how to wash clothes the traditional way.

To finish the day, you can choose to enjoy an optional Bollywood Movie Night - complete with colourful dance numbers, dramatic storylines, and infectious energy. It’s a fitting end to the day in the city that gave birth to India’s legendary film industry.

Mumbai - Goa. We’ll start the day with a visit to the renowned Siddhivinayak Temple - one of Mumbai’s most revered landmarks. Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s spiritual life.Before your included flight to Goa, enjoy some free time to make the most of your final moments in Mumbai. You'll then head to the airport for your flight south to Goa. On arrival, transfer to our accommodation, check in, and unwind. With golden beaches, stunning sunsets, and a laid-back coastal charm, Goa’s relaxed rhythm makes the perfect contrast to Mumbai’s fast-paced energy.

Enjoy two full days at leisure in laid-back Goa, where sun, sea, and good food take centre stage.

You could start day 15 with breakfast at 3102bce - a stylish hotel in Vagator known for its fresh buffet and striking design. It’s the ideal place to fuel up before a day spent however you choose. Whether you stretch out on the sand, hop between relaxed beach shacks, or sample the region’s famous seafood, this is Goa at its best - easy-going and full of charm. In the evening, you can opt for the Fly Dining Experience, where dinner is served 50 metres above the ground. With panoramic views, great food, and a touch of adrenaline, it’s a meal you won’t forget.

On day 16, you might like to join an optional trip to Panjim, the state capital. Wander through colourful Portuguese-style streets, browse local markets, and soak up the city’s unique cultural blend. In the afternoon, make the most of Goa’s beaches - from the lively scenes of Calangute and Baga to the quieter stretches of Mandrem and Morjim. For a touch of adventure, opt for a Kayaking Experience, gliding through calm backwaters for a fresh perspective on coastal life.

Round off the day with a stroll along Coconut Road in Arpora, one of North Goa’s most iconic streets and a favourite backdrop for Bollywood films.

Our tour comes to an end today. Check-out is at 10:00, and you can make your own way to the airport. Alternatively, we can arrange post-tour accommodation for you. Please contact us for this.