Best of India

Intrepid Travel · 19 days
Best of India
Best of India
Best of India
Best of India
Best of India
Best of India
Best of India
Best of India
Best of India
Best of India
Best of India
19 Days
From AUD $3775
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Average

Rating


 (3 reviews)

Best of India

Best of India

Intrepid Travel · 19 days
3.8
3 Reviews
View Map
Duration

19 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Visit India and follow the famous Golden Triangle. Enjoy the perfect introduction to India's three most popular destinations - Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur - as we explore the icons and discover the secrets of this fascinating region.

Highlights

  • The Taj Mahal is not only a sumptuous masterpiece of Indian architecture, but also a truly meaningful stop on any traveller’s journey.
  • Experience authentic Rajasthani luxury with a heritage stay at the lavish Bhanwar Vilas in Karauli.
  • The charm of Shimla Hill Station offers a great introduction to the Himalayas, and the World Heritage-listed ‘toy-train’ is a great way to get there.
  • Learn about Sikhism on a visit to the faith’s most sacred monument, the luminous Golden Temple in Amritsar.
  • Breeze through the self-proclaimed ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ in Rishikesh and walk along the banks of the holy Ganges River.

Trip Details

Duration

19 days

Transportation

Cycle rickshaw,Metro,Overnight sleeper train,Private vehicle,Shuttle Bus,Train

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Delhi, India

Finishes

Delhi, India

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Delhi
Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive with hours (or days) to spare, consider striking out on your own, perhaps to visit the World Heritage-listed Humayun's Tomb. If you've got time a great way to get under the city’s skin in very little time is to book an Urban Adventure. After the 6 pm meeting, head out for an optional meal with your group at a local restaurant.

Optional Activities:

  • Delhi - Humayun's Tomb (600 INR)
  • Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure (3750 INR)
  • Delhi - Red Fort (600 INR)
  • Delhi - Gandhi's Delhi Urban Adventure (3350 INR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Delhi
Join your local leader on an excursion through Old Delhi. Ride the city’s metro system, then hop in a rickshaw to the busy marketplaces of Chandni Chowk. See the Jama Masjid, Delhi’s oldest mosque, before learning about the history of the Sikh religion at the Sheeshganj Gurudwara. Ask your trip leader for their recommendation on where to go for dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Jaipur
Drive into Rajasthan and on to its capital, Jaipur, known as the ‘Pink City’. Take your time to explore this busy city filled with palaces and bazaars selling everything from jewellery and textiles to tea and spices. You might like to stop by the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), then head over to Jaipur's Royal City Palace and explore its extravagant rooms and apartments. Later, discover one of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur.

Included Activities:

  • Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour

Optional Activities:

  • Jaipur - City Palace (1200 INR)
  • Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory (200 INR)
  • Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema (400 INR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Jaipur
This morning, you might want to take an optional early morning hot air balloon experience. Cruising through the air overlooking the countryside is often a highlight of visiting Jaipur. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Amber Fort. Set on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake, the fort is an authentic example of Rajput architecture, and the Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) is one of its more spectacular buildings.

Included Activities:

  • Jaipur - Amber Fort

Optional Activities:

  • Jaipur - Balloon Safari (280 USD)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Lotwara
Leave the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur behind and drive to the Lotwara Village in Dausa district of Rajasthan. This town, founded in the 17th century retains its traditional temples and is known as the ‘Peacock Town’ of Rajasthan due to the dense population of peacocks. Take a guided walk around the Old Quarter, learning about rural Indian life off the tourist trail. Be sure to visit the local stalls along the way and sample seasonal local sweets made from Indian ingredients, including petha (pumpkin), jaggery (organic sugar) and gazak (sesame seeds). Tonight, you’ll stay in a restored heritage property where dinner is included.

Included Activities:

  • Lotwara - Village Walk

Accommodation:

  • Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Fatehpur Sikri – Agra
On the journey to Agra, stop at the one-time capital of the Mughal empire, Fatehpur Sikri. Its stunning mosque displays both Persian and Hindu designs and is secured by a 54-m-high entrance. Once in Agra, you have the option to visit the marble tomb that was saved for the greatest of the Mughal Emperors – Akbar's Mausoleum. End your day at the iconic Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this opulent monument was built in the 1640s as a memorial to Emperor Shah Jahan’s wife.

Included Activities:

  • Fatehpur Sikri - Guided tour
  • Agra - Taj Mahal

Optional Activities:

  • Agra - Additional entries to Taj Mahal (1300 INR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Delhi
In the morning, take a guided tour along the banks of the Yamuna River to the iconic Agra Fort. Originally designed by Emperor Akbar in 1565 to be a military structure, it was converted into a palace during Emperor Shah Jahan's reign and later became his prison. In the early afternoon, take the 3-4 hour journey back to Delhi by private bus. Arrive back at the hotel with enough time to freshen up and decide whether to enjoy one final dinner with the group.

Optional Activities:

  • Delhi - Qutub Minar (600 INR)
  • Delhi - Humayun's Tomb (600 INR)
  • Delhi - Gandhi's Delhi Urban Adventure (3350 INR)
  • Delhi - Home-Cooked Delhi Urban Adventure (4000 INR)
  • Delhi - Delhi Food Walk Urban Adventure (3750 INR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Delhi
This morning, join the group for a walking tour around Old Delhi, which has been an important city in India for over 2000 years. Climb aboard a traditional cycle rickshaw and be driven through the colour and chaos of Delhi’s traffic. In the afternoon, learn about the Sikh religion at the Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) and visit the Jama Masjid – Delhi's oldest and India’s largest mosque.

Included Activities:

  • Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
  • Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
  • Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Shimla
Depart Delhi and hop aboard a train journeying across the state of Punjab to Chandigarh. From Chandigarh, you’ll travel by private vehicle to Shimla – the state’s capital, situated in the lower foothills of the Himalayas. When you arrive, you’ll have the chance to explore the town's quiet charm on an orientation walk with your leader. After, the rest of the afternoon and evening is free to explore at your own pace.

Included Activities:

  • Shimla - Leader-led walking tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Shimla
Wake up early for a 30-minute scenic ride on the Kalka-Shimla Railway – the UNESCO World Heritage-listed 'toy train' – for views of the Himalayas and local villages. After, you might like to head out and shop along Mall Road, visit the Jakhu Temple or shop for specialty wooden crafts at Lakkar Bazaar. Later, you’ll visit the Viceregal Lodge. This is a historic location where the partition agreement that separated India from Pakistan and Bangladesh was drawn up. Set among rolling hills, Shimla offers gentle to challenging walking trails for those wanting to stretch their legs. In the evening, film fans might like to visit the cinema to watch a Bollywood blockbuster.

Included Activities:

  • Shimla - Viceregal Lodge

Optional Activities:

  • Shimla - Cinema (100 INR)
  • Shimla - Jakhu Temple - Free
  • Shimla - Lakkhar Bazar - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
11
Day 11: Mandi
Travel by private transfer to the small town of Mandi. Situated on the Beas River and once part of the salt route to Tibet, Mandi is a town of both historic and religious significance. Your leader will take you on a guided walk where you will explore the town and its huge sunken shopping centre – the only one like it in India. Later, you might like to spend time at the bathing ghats along the river or hike to hilltop temples. In the evening, sit down to dinner with your group and stay in the restored former palace of the Raja of Mandi.

Included Activities:

  • Mandi - Leader-led walking tour

Accommodation:

  • Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)
12
Day 12: Dharamsala (McLeod Ganj)
Today, journey through the mountains by private vehicle along bumpy, winding roads to Dharamsala, also known as McLeod Ganj. A mountain town with a strong Tibetan Buddhist culture, you’ll find robed monks strolling between monasteries and prayer flags hung from above. When you arrive, maybe wander the streets and see for yourself. Dharamsala is also known as the home to the Dalai Lama and where the Tibetan government resides in exile. Enjoy an afternoon to explore the town at your own pace, walking through the streets framed by the Himalayas.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
13
Day 13: Dharamsala (McLeod Ganj)
Today, visit the fascinating Norbulingka Institute, developed to train Tibetan refugees in skills needed to preserve the traditional arts and crafts of Tibet. Its grounds feature an intricate temple and several workshops where you can see woodcarving, painting and needlework in action. Then, make your way to the Tsuglag Khang complex to see the Dalai Lama’s temple. You may also like to visit the Losel Doll Museum to learn about the daily lives and customs of Tibetan people.

Included Activities:

  • Dharamsala - Norbulingka Institute
  • Dharamsala - Dalai Lama Temple

Optional Activities:

  • Dharamsala - Losel Doll Museum (50 INR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
14
Day 14: Amritsar
Today, travel down the mountains to Amritsar, situated in the heart of the fertile plain known as India's ‘breadbasket.’ Amritsar is the largest city in Punjab and the centre of Sikhism in India. With your group, wander through the rambling streets and bazaars of the Old City on foot before you explore the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), which sits in the middle of a sacred lake. Soak up the soothing sounds of the devout chanting verses from the Sikh holy book – the Guru Granth Sahib.

Included Activities:

  • Amritsar - Golden Temple

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
15
Day 15: Amritsar – Overnight train
Journey to the Jallianwala Bagh this morning – the site of the tragic 1919 massacre that played a vital role in India's independence. Then, head out to the India–Pakistan border to watch the daily flag ceremony that has been followed since 1959. This famous military practice garners crowds every day who come to watch as the security forces of India and Pakistan engage in an elaborate ceremony of bowing, chanting, marching and high kicks. Tonight, you’ll take an overnight sleeper train from Amritsar to Haridwar.

Included Activities:

  • Amritsar - Jallianwallah Bagh
  • Amritsar - Wagah Border ceremony

Accommodation:

  • Overnight Sleeper Train (Number of Nights: 1)
16
Day 16: Rishikesh
Disembark in Haridwar this morning, then drive to Rishikesh and check in to your hotel. Later today, you have the chance to go on an orientation walk with your leader to see the mural-lined walls of Chaurasi Kutia – the ashram made internationally famous when the Beatles visited in the 1960s. In the evening, take a stroll along the holy Ganges River, where you’ll hear the ringing of the temple bells and watch as the nightly fire rituals of Ganga Aarti begin.

Included Activities:

  • Rishikesh - Leader-led walking tour
  • Rishikesh - Chaurasi Kutia 'The Beatles Ashram'

Optional Activities:

  • Rishikesh - Yoga Class (600 INR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
17
Day 17: Rishikesh – River Ganges
You have a free morning to enjoy the calm and tranquil atmosphere of Rishikesh. Maybe take a walk along the Ganges River or relax and unwind in a yoga class – Rishikesh is known as the 'Yoga Capital of the World.' For something more adventurous, there’s also the option to white-water raft down the Ganges! In the afternoon, reunite with your group for a walk through the nearby jungle.

Optional Activities:

  • Rishikesh - White Water Rafting (1500 INR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
18
Day 18: Delhi
Bid farewell to Rishikesh and take the train back to Delhi. This is a long journey, so get stuck into a good book or reminisce on your incredible adventure with your fellow travellers. The train arrives back in Delhi at around 11 pm and you’ll be transferred to your hotel for your final night.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
19
Day 19: Delhi
There are no activities planned for your last day, and you can depart the accommodation at any time. If you would like to stay an extra couple of days, and it's recommended that you do, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time. If you do extend your stay, maybe check out the great range of Urban Adventures – like the Hidden Gems of Delhi tour.

Optional Activities:

  • Delhi - Hidden Gems of Delhi Urban Adventure (4100 INR)
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $3,775
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 19 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Visit India and follow the famous Golden Triangle. Enjoy the perfect introduction to India's three most popular destinations - Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur - as we explore the icons and discover the secrets of this fascinating region.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 12 Jan 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
2.5
Lesley
Traveled, November 2022

12/01/2022

This trip is a combination of two tours...a taster of Rajasthan which would invite you to do more and followed by a trip into the mountains to visit all the spiritually important places of Northern India. This part was simply wonderful, giving us an opportunity to visit the holy places in Hinduism, including Sikhism, and Buddhism as well as finding clear clean air in the mountains after the pollution of Delhi...it is a completely different view of India quiete, peaceful and indeed spiritual. I highly recommend it. Our group leaders, Guarang on the Rajasthan portion and Ajay on the Mountains & Mystics portions, made the whole adventure a delight. We'd learned so much and at least for myself absorbed some of the spirituality of this wonderful country

4.5
Mark
Traveled, April 2024

04/21/2024

I would highly recommend travelling with Intrepid as the tour guides were both caring and professional and this made it an enjoyable experience for all of the travellers in my group.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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